Heroine of Jericho
1976.
M.A.M. ascends the throne, raps once.
M.A.M.: Sisters and Brethren, I am now about to open a Court of Heroines of Jericho. Officers will take their stations and places, and members will be clothed.
All being clothed and in their stations.
M.A.M., *: Worthy Inner Gate Keeper, you will inform the Outer Gate Keeper that I am now about to open a Court of Heroines of Jericho. You will display the Scarlet Line and direct her to guard the outer avenue, and permit none to enter, except such as are duly qualified and have permission from the throne.
The I.G.K. goes out and stations the O.G.K. and displays Scarlet Line at the outer gate; gives the orders of the M.A.M.; she then returns, tiles the door.
I.G.K.: Most Ancient Matron, the Outer Gate Keeper has your commands, the Scarlet Line hangs at the gate, and the Court is well guarded.
M.A.M.: By whom, Worthy Inner Gate Keeper?
I.G.K.: By a Heroine without, properly instructed, and our colors are our sign.
M.A.M.: Worthy Vice Ancient, are all present Heroines of Jericho?
V.A.: Most Ancient Matron, I will ascertain and report. Worthy Senior Attendant, come to the East and give me the Pass of a Heroine of Jericho.
S.A. goes to the V.A. and gives the Pass and Token.
V.A.: You will now receive the Word from each person present and report. * **.
S.A. receives the Pass from each person present, commencing on the left of the V.A., and from her station says: Worthy Vice Ancient, all present are Heroines of Jericho and in possession of the proper Pass and Token.
V.A.: Most Ancient Matron, all present are worthy to participate in our solemn mysteries.
M.A.M., * : ‘Tis well. Worthy Vice Ancient are you a Heroine of Jericho?
V.A.: I am a Heroine.
M.A.M.: From whence came you as a Heroine?
V.A.: From the camps of Israel.
M.A.M.: To where are you traveling?
V.A.: To the plains of Jericho.
M.A.M.: What are you going to receive?
V.A.: A blessed inheritance that was promised to our forefathers in the days of Abraham the Faithful.
M.A.M.: It is a long and tedious journey of more than three days.
V.A.: Yes, I travel by day and by night.
M.A.M.: It is very dark tonight.
V.A.: Yes, but not so dark but that I can see.
M.A.M.: What can you see?
V.A.: A Scarlet Line.
M.A.M.: Why a Scarlet Line?
V.A.: Because it saved my life in the hour of danger.
M.A.M., ***: Most Worthy Joshua, what are the most important lessons taught in a Court of Heroines of Jericho?
M.W.J.: Most Ancient Matron, those of Love, Friendship and Honor, the lessons of Wisdom.
M.A.M.: Heroines and Knights, we will now give attention to the lessons of Wisdom.
J.A.: Love is that Masonic virtue that denotes fondness and affection of the mind caused by that which delights, and is the object of our search and affection, the God of Love.
S.A.: Friendship is that attachment from mutual esteem and friendly assistance. It is a true Masonic virtues and one of the precious jewels of Masonry.
V.A.: Honor is that virtue that binds us to secrecy and obedience. It was this virtue that prompted Rahab to say to the men: Now, therefore, I pray you swear unto me by the Lord; since I have shown you kindness, that ye will also show kindness unto my father’s house, and deliver our lives from death, and the men answered,
All: My life is yours, if ye utter not, this our business.
M.A.M.: Heroines and Knights, you all speak well. Let us unite in singing our opening hymn.
Chaplain goes to the Ark and stands on the West side facing the throne; the members form a hollow square around the Ark and the following or some suitable hymn is sung:
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall use to Thee:
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity.
Holy, holy, holy; all the saints adore thee,
Casting clown their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
Cherubim and Seraphim falling down before Thee,
Which wert, and art, and evermore shalt be.
Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee,
Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see;
Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee.
Perfect in power, in love, and purity.
Chaplain: Almighty and most merciful God, Sovereign Master of the Universe, condescend to cast Thy great love upon this Court here assembled, and give unto it and its labors Thy richest blessings. Teach us we pray Thee, to distinguish between the good and the bad, the upright and the ungodly, and may the bond of our union be more firmly cemented in Love, Friendship and Honor, and to Thy most holy and righteous name be ascribed might, majesty and power, forever and ever, Amen.
All: I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; and Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead and buried; He descended into hell, the third day He arose from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting, Amen. Amen. Amen.
M.A.M.: Worthy Junior Attendant, display the Sacred Volume, with appropriate emblems.
J.A. goes to the Ark, opens the Bible on 2nd Chapter of Joshua, displays 2 stocks of flax and a Scarlet Line; salutes and returns to her station.
M.A.M.: Heroines and Knights look to the East and give the signs.
All give signs, M.A.M. leading.
M.A.M.: To the glory of God, the Grand Architect of the Universe, and to the memory of Rahab of Jericho, and by the power and authority in me vested, I declare ... Court No. ... opened in due form on the degree of Heroine of Jericho, and its labor resumed.
All give the Shock (Stand right hand in the left hand. 2. Carry the right hand at an angle to the height of the right shoulder, then bring the right hand down to the left. Do this three times three, hands coming together each time) 3 times and say: Amen, so be it.
M.A. M .: Worthy Inner Gate Keeper, inform the Outer Gate Keeper that the Court is now opened.
I.G.K. obeys orders.
I.G.K: Most Ancient Matron, the Outer Gate Keeper has your commands and the Court is well guarded.
M.A.M., *: It is well.
M.A.M.: Worthy Inner Gate Keeper, you will ascertain from the Outer Gate Keeper, if there are any candidates waiting at our gates; if so, their names and for what degree, and report to the Most Worthy Joshua.
I.G.K. opens the gate and communicates the orders to the O.G.K., who reports to her the name of the party or parties waiting to receive the degree of H. of J. The M.A.M. presents the scepter to the M.W.J. and changes stations.
I.G.K.: Most Worthy Joshua, there is without Sister ..., a Worthy True Kinsman, who now desires further honors by being exalted to the Degree of a Heroine of Jericho.
M.W.J.: Heroines and Knights, I am informed that Sister ..., a Worthy True Kinsman, is without waiting to receive further honors by being exalted to the Degree of a Heroine of Jericho. If there is no objection I will proceed to confer the degree upon her; hearing none I will proceed.
M.W.J.: Worthy Junior Attendant, you will find Sister ..., a Worthy True Kinsman, waiting to be exalted to the Degree of a Heroine of Jericho, to whom you will propound the usual questions and if satisfactorily answered, prepare her for the ceremonies of this degree, and when prepared, apply for admission in due form.
Music
J.A. salutes, retires to the preparation room. Music stops. The J.A. addressing the candidate says: Sister ..., before conducting you into the presence of our Most Worthy Joshua, I am directed to propound to you certain questions to which I expect decided and satisfactory answers. Do you still continue to seek further honors in our Court?
Cand.: I do.
J.A.: Is it of your own free will you make this request?
Cand.: It is.
J.A.: Have you carefully considered the steps you are now about to take?
Cand.: I have.
J.A.: Know you that none can be exalted to this degree except those who are sincere, whose benevolence and good conduct are well assured, and whose zeal is untiring? Upon those conditions, do you still desire to unite with us?
Cand.: I do.
J.A.: In this degree, on our first entrance, it will be necessary for you and I to represent Caleb and Joshua, two spies from the Camp of Israel. Do you consent to this?
Cand.: I do.
J.A.: It is well. I shall now proceed to prepare you for the ceremonies of this degree.
The questions being answered in the affirmative the J.A. prepares the candidate by removing her hat, gloves, cloak or shawl, and jewelry or ornaments; then proceeds to prepare her saying: friend, allow me to decorate you with this beautiful ornament, a red rose. The J.A. fastens the rose securely in the hair; then ties around her head a closely woven red veil, so that it will hang down over the face. Candidate must wear white gloves. The J.A. then conducts the candidate to the door of the preparation room, where she gives, for the candidate, three hard knocks. The S.A. in her station will rise and say: Most Worthy Joshua, whilst we are pursuing our usual labors in Love, Friendship and Honor, our gates are unusually alarmed.
M.W.J.: Worthy Senior Attendant, attend the alarm and report the cause.
S.A. proceeds to the inner door, gives three raps, opens the door.
S.A.: Why this alarm? Who are you, and from whence came you?
J.A.: The Junior Attendant with ..., a worthy Sister True Kinsman, who now craves further honors by being exalted to the Degree of Heroine of Jericho.
S.A.: ..., is this a request of your own free will?
Cand.: It is.
S.A.: Worthy Junior Attendant, why are you at our gates?
J.A.: We come to spy out the country promised to our forefathers.
S.A.: What recommendations do you bring?
J.A.: Greetings from our Most Worthy Master of Israel.
S.A.: By what right or benefit do you hope to pass our gates?
J.A.: By the benefit of the Pass and Token.
S.A.: Have you the Pass and Token?
J.A.: We have that which led us to your gates.
S.A.: Advance and give it.
J.A. gives in a whisper True Word in ear of the S.A. and at the same times gives her True Grip.
S.A.: The Pass and Token are right. Learn then the first lesson of a Heroine, be patient and hope.
S.A. closes the door and goes in front of the Ark: Most Worthy Joshua, the alarm was made by the Junior Attendant with ..., a worthy Sister True Kinsman, who now craves further honors by being exalted to the Degree of Heroine of Jericho.
M.W.J.: Worthy Senior Attendant, is this request of her own free will?
S.A.: Most Worthy Joshua, it is.
M.W.J.: Why are they at our gates?
S.A.: They come to spy out the country promised to our forefathers.
M.W.J.: What recommendation do they bring?
S.A.: Greetings from our Most Worthy Master in Israel.
M.W.J.: How do they expect to pass.
S.A.: By the Pass and Token.
M.W.J.: Have they the Pass?
S.A.: They have that which led them to our gates.
M.W.J.: You will give it for the benefit of the Court.
S.A. gives Pass Grip.
M.W.J.: The Pass is right, let them enter in Love and Friendship, with Honor.
S.A. proceeds to the door, opens it without knocking: Sister ..., you have permission to enter, and you are now entering a place hallowed and sanctified; none but the pure and good ought to enter here, and thou enterest here of thine own free will. Whatever thou mayest encounter, it is of thine own choice; murmur not thereof, at any trial. A seal is set upon thy lips; let it warn thee to be ever silent and secret as to all that may befall thee or be made known to thee here. Masonry is in earnest and those whom it adapts must be prepared for sacrifice.
Low wailing music. The S.A. on the right and the J.A. on the left of candidate, they conduct her to the Ark on the West side, and she stands facing the throne. The Court is called up; music stops and the following is sung:
1. Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
2.Before our Father’s throne,
We pour our ardent prayers;
Cur fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
Our comforts and our cares.
After the Ode the Court is seated, the two Attendants and the candidate stand at the Ark facing the throne.
M.W.J.: Worthy Senior and Junior Attendants, whom do you bring with you into this Court?
S.A.: Most Worthy Joshua, it is Sister ..., a Worthy True Kinsman, who seeks to be exalted to the Degree of Heroine of Jericho.
M.W.J.: Sister ..., do you come here of your own free will?
Cand.: I do.
M.W.J.: Are you prepared to undergo the trials through which you must pass in order to attain what you desire?
Cand.: I am.
M.W.J.: Remember my sister, those who enter upon great enterprises with overweening confidence in themselves too often signally and pitifully fail.
M.A.M., *: The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility.
V.A.M., *: The fear of man bringeth a snare; but those who putteth their trust in the Lord shall be safe.
M.W.J., *: My sister, in whom do you put your trust?
Cand.: In God.
M.W.J.: May He in Whom you put your trust sustain you in all trials, adversities and calamities. In search of what do you come hither?
The candidate prompted by the S. A., says: Of Light and Truth.
M.W.J.: Light and Truth are one and the same; we also seek them. What idea have you formed of Masonry?
She answers according as she thinks.
M.W.J.: What has led you to seek initiation into this Court?
Again she answers as she pleases.
M.W.J., ***: Heroines and Knights, how may we be assured that it is not mere curiosity which has brought this lady hither, and that she will not divulge to the Profane the secrets that may be intrusted to her?
M.A.M.: I demand that we secure ourselves against that by all the customary tests.
V.A.: I demand that she travel in the way that we all have gone before her.
All: Amen. So be it.
M.W.J. *: Be it as you demand.
Music low and solemn on the organ; the lights in the room are lowered. The S.A. takes the right arm of the candidate and the J.A. the left arm of the candidate; they lead her twice around the Court; during her Journey, obstacles are placed upon the floor over which the candidate is made to pass, and others are held in front of her under which she can pass only by stooping. On the second circuit, when the candidate has reached the West and turned towards the Ark, the trumpet will blast or blow 7 times. Then all will give three loud shocks with their hands and feet; the Directors will clash swords together as if attacked and in combat; at this stage of the ceremony all say in a loud voice: Huzza! Huzza! Huzza! the Lord has given us the city.
Attendants with the candidate stand at the Ark; the lights are turned up; music stops; silence reigns.
M.W.J.: My sister, the journey which you have ,just made is symbolical of the journey of life, with its difficulties and dangers, its mishaps and reverses in which one must often submit with patience to evils which cannot be averted, and bow the head and humble the spirit in silent acquiescence of the divine will. Anciently, the initiate was subjected in these journeys to more real and severe trials, made in caves or labyrinths; they were long and toilsome; by narrow rugged and uneven paths. The crash of thunder, the roar of falling waters astounded and terrified her; the cries of wild beasts added to her alarm; flashes of lightning lit up at intervals the darkness; grim figures of men and monsters disputed her passage; and when, at length, she reached the light, she was made to prove her firmness by leaping from a height upon what appeared to be a bed of rocks or into what seemed a fiery pit.
This journey and those you have yet to make are but symbolical and the shadows and images only of the reality. We do not seek to terrify, but only to impress you; but we cannot wholly dispense with the ancient tests; you must prove your faith by your works. Are you ready to incur any danger, be it ever so severe For those you love?
Cand.: I am.
M.W.J.: We will test your sincerity and courage. Prepare the novice for the symbolic purification.
Low solemn music on the organ. S. and J.A. conduct the candidate by way of the South tn the foot of the throne, in front of the basin of purification, and take from her the crimson veil. The M.W.J. descends to the foot of the throne; music stops. Court is called up.
M.W.J.: Thus saith the Law of Moses concerning the symbolic purification: This is the thing that thou shalt do unto them, to hallow them, to minister unto me in the Priest’s office; thou shalt take of the blood that is upon the altar, and of the anointing oil, and sprinkle upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon the garments of his sons with him; and he shall be purified, and his garments, and his sons and his sons’ garments with him.
He shall take to cleanse the house, two birds, and cedar-wood, and scarlet, and hyssop, and he shall kill one of the birds in an earthen vessel over running water; and he shall take the cedar-wood, and the hyssop, and the scarlet, and the living bird, and dip them in the blood of the slain bird, and in the running water, and sprinkle the house seven times, and so purify the house; but he shall let go the living bird out of the city into the open fields, and make an atonement for the house and it shall be purified.
M.W.J. now takes a bunch of hyssop and dips it in the basin of perfumed water and says: By a like symbolic rite, but not with blood, I sprinkle the house and thee.
M.W.J. sprinkles the candidate seven times and says: We do this as a symbol of the purification of the soul, by which alone thou canst become a true Heroine, and, we charge thee to emancipate thyself from the enthrallments of thy seven chief and besetting faults whatever they may be, since it is of them that thou art now symbolically purified.
M.W.J. returns to the throne and seats the Court. Music on the organ; the S. and J.A. replace the veil over the candidate’s face and stand with candidate at the foot of the throne. Music stops.
M.W.J., *: Worthy Senior and Junior Attendants, journey with the candidate three revolutions of the Sun in its apparent course and let her who seeks to unite with us, give an attentive ear to the mysteries of a Heroine of Jericho.
Attendants journey three times around the Court with the candidate, halting in front of the Ark; during the Journey M.W.J. recites the following: Joshua sent out two men to spy secretly saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into the house of Rahab and lodged there. And it was told the King of Jericho, saying: Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country. And the King sent unto Rahab, saying:
Bring forth the men that are come to thee. And Rahab said to the King, there came two men unto me when it was dark; whither the men went I know not; pursue after them quickly; but she had brought them up to the roof of her house and hid them with the stalks of flax. And as soon as they who pursued after them were gone out, they shut the gate. She came up to them upon the roof and said, I know that the Lord hath given you the land, and that all the inhabitants faint because of you. For we have heard how the Lord dried up the waters of the Red Sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side of Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. And as soon as we heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the Lord your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath. Now therefore, I pray, swear unto me by the Lord, since I have shown you kindness, that you will also show kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token. And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death.
All: And the men answered, My life for yours, if ye utter not, this our business.
The candidate, having made the three circuits of the Court, is seated at the Ark on the West side facing the throne.
S.A.: Most Worthy Joshua, again I present to you our sister ..., a worthy True Kinsman, who has answered all the necessary questions; traveled the way that we all have gone before her, and having received the symbolic purifications now craves for further honors, that she may be able to prove herself a Heroine of Jericho.
M.W.J. addressing the candidate: Sister ..., before you can proceed further it will be necessary for you to take a solemn and binding obligation, which all Heroines have taken who have gone this way before you. Are you willing to take the obligation?
Cand.: I am.
M.W.J.: Worthy Senior Attendant, you will place the candidate in position.
S.A. causes the candidate to place both hands on the open Bible and emblems.
S.A.: Most Worthy Joshua, the candidate is in position.
Music.
M.W.J. calls up the Court; proceeds to the Ark; officers step out from their stations and form a circle; Directors hold stalks of flax over the head of the candidate. Music stops.
M.W.J.: Sister ..., you are now seated in a Court of Heroines of Jericho, and in position to assume its solemn vows. If you are willing to proceed, say I, pronounce your name in full and repeat after me:
I, ..., of my own free will and accord, in the presence of Almighty God, and these Heroines and Knights of Jericho here assembled, do hereby and hereon solemnly promise and swear that I will not communicate the secrets of the Degree of the Heroine of Jericho to any person in the world, except to a Heroine or Knight of Jericho, and I knowing them to be such. I furthermore promise and swear that I will not be present nor assist in conferring this degree upon any person, unless it be one lawfully entitled to receive the same. I furthermore promise and swear that I will not be present at the conferring of this degree, unless a companion Royal Arch Mason presides; nor will I be present nor assist the said presiding officer to confer the degree upon his own wife, I knowing her to be such. I furthermore promise and swear that I will keep the secrets of a Heroine or Knight of Jericho when communicated to me as such or whenever their interest and safety require it. I furthermore promise and swear, that I will obey all due signs and regular summonses handed or sent to me From a regular Court of Heroines of Jericho. I furthermore promise and swear to obey the Constitution, laws and regulations of the Grand Court of the State of ..., under which this Court is held; the edict of the Grand Joshua, and the By-Laws of this Court or any other Court of Heroines of which I may hereafter become a member.
I furthermore promise and swear that I will not give the Hailing sign of Distress of a Heroine of Jericho, un less I am in real distress or for the benefit of the Court when at work, or the instruction of a member; and should I see the sign given or hear the words accompanying the same, I will go to the relief of the person so giving it and extricate her or him from danger, if in my power to do so. I furthermore promise and swear that I will not speak the word of a Heroine of Jericho, which I shall hereafter receive in any way or manner, except in that which I shall receive it, and should I ever see the Scarlet signs given at any time or place, I shall not rest satisfied until 1 have unfolded its meaning. I furthermore promise and swear that I will not speak evil of Heroines or Knights of Jericho behind their backs or before their faces, but will give them due and timely notice of approaching danger.
To all of which do I solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, with a firm and steady purpose to keep and perform the same; binding myself under no less penalty than to have my head struck off and carried to the highest mountain, so help me God, and keep me steadfast in the due performance of the same. Amen, amen, amen.
M.W.J.: My sister, in your present condition what is your most earnest wish?
Prompted by the S.A.: Cand.: I wish to see and receive the promised blessings.
M.W.J.: Heroines and Knights, stretch forth your hands and assist in granting this wish.
All place themselves in position to give the shock.
M.W.J.: My life for yours, if you utter not, this our business.
As the last words are spoken all give the shock three times with the hands, the S. and J.A.’s throw back the veil from the face of the candidate, and the following Ode is sung: tune America.
1. To all who love the Lord,
Resting upon His word,
Welcome we bring.
In Christian charity,
Freely we offer thee
Love in its sanctity,
As now we sing.
2. As we Heroines meet,
In such communion sweet,
From day to day.
While we to God appeal,
May each His spirit feel;
May God Himself reveal
To all, we pray.
After the Ode, The Circle of Joshua is given.
M.W.J.: My sister, being restored to the light, you find yourself enclosed in the circle of Joshua formed by the Heroines and Knights and you are thus assured that so will they always unite to assist, defend and protect you, while you prove yourself worthy as we hope you will do, by a punctual performance of your obligations and duties.
The circle is lowered with the words and the Court is seated. The M.W.J., S. and J. Attendants and candidate remain at the Ark.
M.W.J.: ..., you having been restored to material light, that you may see and receive the promised blessings, your attention is now directed to the three most important emblematic lights of the Court: the Ark of the Covenant, the Holy Bible, and three burning tapers. They are thus explained: the Ark is to remind you of that Divine Ark of Hope that will guide you to the heaven of promise. Its colors are white, blue and scarlet, emblematic of purity, love and zeal; they teach you these important lessons, to lead a pure life, to love God supremely and be Zealous to defend a worthy Heroine on all occasions. The Holy Bible and the three burning tapers are to teach you to have faith in Jehovah, truth in your heart, and love to all; they will light your pathway from this Court to the Grand Court of heaven, where we meet to part no more.
M.W.J.: Worthy Attendants, you will now con duct our newly obligated sister to the throne for further ceremonies.
Low and soft music on the organ. The M.W.J. returns to his seat on the throne, the Attendants conduct the candidate to the foot of the throne and stand facing the Altar of Incense; the Court is called up. The M.W.J. lights the alcohol in the incense pot; the M.A.M. throws in a little powdered incense; then the M.W.J. takes from the candidate’s head the crimson rose and casts it into the flames. Music stops.
M.W.J.: My sister, repeat after me: I sacrifice this ornament upon the altar of Masonry, in token and as a pledge of my willingness henceforward to sacrifice to duty: my pleasure, amusements and inclinations and to charity: my jewels, my ornaments and superfluities.
M.A.M. places a golden crown on the candidate’s
head: My sister, in lieu of the ornament you have just sacrificed, we bestow upon you this golden crown. The crown, in all ages of the world is the reward of merit and virtue. Among the Hebrews it signified completion or perfections and may it truly prove a symbol of your proficiency and perfection as a Lady of the exalted degree of Heroines of Jericho.
M.A.M. now presents the candidate with the badge of the degree.
M.A.M.: We now, with pleasure, invest you with the badge of this degree; its colors symbolize purity, love and zeal; and may you wear this badge as an honored Lady of this august arid sublime degree, with honor to the Court and pleasure to yourself.
M.A.M. takes the scarlet cord: Now in conclusion, my sister, let me direct your attention to the scarlet line. This is a very important symbol to the Heroine; it symbolizes loyalty and true friendship. By this line your life may be saved in the hour of danger; by it your sacred vows to this Court are sealed and made perpetual.
M.A.M. binds the scarlet cord around the candidate’s
waist: By this act you are bound in bonds that cannot be broken to this Court; to duty, your solemn obligations and to all Heroines of Jericho wherever dispersed around the world. You will now give attention to the remarks of our Most Worthy Joshua.
M.W.J.: My sister, it now becomes my duty to invest you with the secrets of a Heroine of Jericho, by which you will be able to make yourself known to those who have in like manner received the degree. They consist of a:
The Sign of the Scarlet Line or Sign of Recognition.
This is made by five motions. 1. Take a hand kerchief in the right hand and place one corner of it in the mouth, letting it hang down in front. 2. Cross the hands on the breast over the handkerchief right over left. 3. Slide the two hands thus crossed to the lower end of the handkerchief and interlace the fingers, turning the palms up. 4.Grasp the handkerchief at the mouth with the right hand and slide it slowly down with the left hand following in like manner. 5. Remove the handkerchief from the mouth with the right hand and let the hands fall to the side.
Should you see this sign given at any time, you may rest assured that some one is asking the question: Is there a Heroine of Jericho present? The answer to this sign is the Saluting Sign.
The Hailing Sign.
This sign is made by three motions. 1. Take a handkerchief by one corner between the thumb and forefinger of the right hand and hold it up even with the corner of the right eye, a little off from the eye, the corner of the handkerchief hanging down. 2. Turn the hand so that the inside of the hand will be towards the face. 3. Drop the right hand and handkerchief to the right side.
The Sign of Silence.
This sign is made by three motions. 1. Raise the left hand to the left ear, thumb and fingers clinched. 2. Point the forefinger of the left hand to the inside of the left ear. 3. Drop the hand to the side.
The Grand Hailing Sign of Distress.
This sign is made by four motions and by three times three.
1. Take a handkerchief by the corner with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand and raise the hand and handkerchief up on a level with the right shoulder. 2. Drop the hand and handkerchief three distinct times. 3. Raise the hand and handkerchief as before and drop as before. 4.Raise the hand and handkerchief as before and drop as before.
You are never to give this sign except you are in real distress or for the benefit of the Court when at work.
The Saluting Sign.
This is the fifth sign of a Heroine of Jericho, and is made by three motions. 1. Take a handkerchief by the corner with the right hand, the hand at the right side and the handkerchief hanging down. 2. Carry the right hand and hand kerchief over the head from the left to the right three times, each time bringing the handkerchief around the back of the neck. 3. Drop the hand and handkerchief to the right side.
This sign is to remind you of the penalty of your obligation, that of having your head cut off. This sign is also the sign of salutation, and is always given to the presiding officer on entering or retiring when the Court is open and at work on the degree of Heroine of Jericho.
Grand Honor Sign: Take handkerchief in right hand, wave forward three times accompanied by “We hail! We hail! We hail,” etc.
Pass Grip: The back of the right hands together, thumbs locked. The name of the grip is Joshua.
The True Grip and Word, is given in the following manner, the word in a whisper.
1st Per.: Lays right hand on the left shoulder of the second person, and says: My life.
2nd Per.: Lays right hand on the left shoulder of the first person, and says: For yours.
1st Per.: Lays left hand on the right shoulder of the second person, and says: If you utter not.
2nd Per.: Lays left hand on the right shoulder of the first person and says: This our business.
1st Per.: Ra.
2nd Per.: Hab.
1st Per.: Put it together.
2nd Per.: Rahab.
1st Per.: Right.
You are sworn never to give this word in any other way or manner only as you now receive it. This true grip and word will also be demanded of you by the Inner Gate Keeper before you will be permitted to pass her station when the Court is open and at work on the Heroine degree.
The words to be used when the Grand Hailing Sign of Distress cannot be seen.
V. for the Sign of Distress: My Lord! Is there no help for Jericho?
M.W.J.: To enter a Court of Heroines of Jericho your first observation will be a scarlet line at the entrance of the Outer Gate. You will clothe yourself with your badge, crown and white gloves, give your name in full, and the name and number of your Court, and where located, to the Outer Gate Keeper. She will report the same to the Most Ancient Matron, through the Inner Gate Keeper. Should the Most Ancient Matron order that you be admitted, the Outer Gate Keeper will demand of you the Token and Pass, which you will give her in this manner The back of the right hands together, thumbs locked. The name of the grip is Joshua. You will then be admitted inside when the Inner Gate Keeper will demand of you the True Grip and Word, which you will give in this manner: The True Grip and Word, is given in the following manner, the word in a whisper.
1st Per.: Lays right hand on the left shoulder of the second person, and says: My life.
2nd Per.: Lays right hand on the left shoulder of the first person, and says: For yours.
1st Per.: Lays left hand on the right shoulder of the second person, and says: If you utter not.
2nd Per.: Lays left hand on the right shoulder of the first person and says: This our business, after which you will go in front of the Ark and give the Saluting sign 1. Take a handkerchief by the corner with the right hand, the hand at the right side and the handkerchief hanging down. 2. Carry the right hand and hand kerchief over the head from the left to the right three times, each time bringing the handkerchief around the back of the neck. 3. Drop the hand and handkerchief to the right side, three times to the Most Ancient Matron, then take your seat.
M.W.J. explains the Mystic Circle:
1. Form a circle. 2. Then join hands with the members on your right and left. 3. Raise hands joined up even with the shoulders. 4. All together, drop the hands to the side by three motions. Say, as you drop the hands: Hosanna! Blessed is he that cometh. In the name of the Lord.
The Kinsman’s Support.
1. Form a circle. 2. Raise the two hands open and lay them on the shoulders of the members on your right and left. 3. Raise the hands up about one inch, and let them fall upon the shoulders again and say: May we. 4. Drop the hands to the sides, and then place the right hand upon the left breast. and say: Ever remain. 5. Drop the right hand to the right side, and say True Kinsman.
The Circle of Joshua.
1. Form a circle. 2. Take a handkerchief by the corner, with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand, letting it hang down. 3. Link little fingers with the members on your right and left. 4. Raise the hand thus linked up even with the shoulders, holding the handkerchief between the thumb and forefinger. 5. Drop the hands by three motions, and say: We Will Bind; Our Sheaves; Together.
The Public Grand Honors.
1. Raise the right hand up even with the top of the head on the right side, hand open and palm to the front. 2. Carry the right to the left breast. 3. Drop the right hand to the right side. Do this three times, saying each time:
1st: Glory to the Father.
2nd: And to the Son.
3rd: And to the Holy Ghost.
1st: As it was in the beginning.
2nd: Is now and ever shall be.
3rd: World without end.
1st: Amen!
2nd: Amen!
3rd: Amen!
M.W.J.: You will now be conducted to the place of record, where you will sign the By-Laws of the Court; after which you will be reconducted to your present position.
S.A. conducts the newly obligated sister to the Court Secretary, where she signs the roll and By-Laws; then returns with her to the foot of the throne, where she directs her to kneel. The M.W.J. calls up the Court, then the M.W.J. standing with a scarlet line suspended over the head of the new sister, says: To the glory of God, the Grand Architect of the Universe, and in memory of Rahab of Jericho, and by virtue of the power and authority with which I am invested, and under this sacred symbol, the scarlet line, venerated in the days of Joshua; and with the unanimous consent of the Heroines and Knights here assembled, I do by this ceremony exhalt and proclaim ..., to be a Lady Heroine of Jericho and a member of ... Court No. ..., and may she as such be honored and loved everywhere.
M.W.J. takes the newly obligated sister by the right hand assisting her to her feet. The Court is called down and the newly received Heroine is seated in front and facing the throne. The Most Worthy Joshua, assisted by the Most Ancient Matron, gives the following:
J.: Are you a Heroine of Jericho?
M.: I am a Heroine.
J.: From whence came you as a Heroine of Jericho?
M.: From the Camps of Israel.
J.: To where are you traveling?
M.: To the plains of Jericho.
J.: What are you going to receive?
M.: A blessed inheritance that was promised to our forefathers in the days of Abraham, the Faithful.
J.: It is a long and tedious journey of more than three days.
M.: Yes, I travel by day and by night.
J.: It is very dark tonight.
M.: Not so dark but that I can see.
J.: What can you see?
M.: A Scarlet Line.
J.: Why a Scarlet Line?
M.: Because it saved my life in the hour of danger.
J.: Where were you prepared to be exalted a Heroine of Jericho?
M.: In a room adjoining the Court.
J.: How?
M.: By being plainly dressed, without jewelry or ornaments; in my hair a red rose, wearing white gloves, and a crimson veil over my face.
J.: Why without jewelry or ornaments?
M.: Because the jewelry and decorations of Adoptive Masonry with which I hoped to be invested, were more honorable than any others I could wear.
J.: Why the gloves and veil?
M.: As a symbol of innocence and modesty; and because, in the East, the bride is always veiled.
J.: Being thus prepared, how did you obtain admission?
M.: By three distinct raps, which were answered by three from within.
J.: What was said to you?
M.: I was asked why I was at the gates?
J.: Your answer?
M.: That we were two spies from the Camps of Israel.
J.: What was then said to you?
M.: I was asked what recommendations we brought.
J.: Your answer?
M.: Greetings from our Most Worthy Master in Israel.
J.: What was further said?
M.: I was asked if we had the Pass and Token.
J.: Your answer?
M.: We have that which led us to your gates.
J.: How was it given?
M.: It was given this way, the back of the right hands together, thumbs locked. The name of the grip is Joshua.
J.: What was then said to you?
M.: I was instructed to learn the first lesson of a Heroine, to be patient and hope.
J.: What was then done with you?
M.: The door was opened and I was bid to enter, in Love and Friendship, with Honor.
J.: You having entered what was done with you?
M.: I was first conducted to the sacred and holy Ark, and after traveling the way that all Heroines had gone before me, I was led to the holy Ark and solemnly purified according to the ancient custom.
J.: What was then done with you?
M.: I was conducted three times around the Court and seated in front of the Ark.
J.: What was then done?
M.: My hands were placed upon the Holy Bible and I took the obligation of a Heroine of Jericho.
J.: Have you that obligation?
M.: I have. Gives it.
J.: After the obligation what was said to you
M.: I was asked what was my most earnest wish.
J.: Your answer?
M.: I wish to see and receive the promised blessings.
J.: What was then done?
M.: I was brought to light by order of the Most Worthy Joshua with the assistance of the Heroines and Knights.
J.: On being brought to light what did you find?
M.: I found myself enclosed in a circle formed by the Heroines and Knights.
J.: What did you next see?
M.: The Ark of the Covenant, the Holy Bible and three burning tapers.
J.: What further?
M.: My attention was called to the Ark and I was informed that it was an emblem of that divine Ark of Hope, that would guide me to the haven of promise.
J.: Did the Most Worthy Joshua explain the Ark?
M.: He said the white was an emblem of purity, the blue an emblem of love, and the scarlet an emblem of zeal.
J.: What do they teach?
M.: They teach me to lead a pure and upright life; to love God supremely, and a Heroine of Jericho as myself; to have charity to all mankind and to be zealous to defend a Heroine of Jericho under all circumstances.
J.: How many burning lights are there?
M.: Three.
J.: What do they teach?
M.: Faith in Jehovah, truth in our hearts, and love to all, which will light our pathway from this Court to the Grand Court of heaven.
J.: What was then done?
M.: I was then conducted to the foot of the throne and there sacrificed symbolically to duty: my pleasures, amusements and inclinations; and to charity: my jewels, ornaments and superfluities, in lieu whereof I was presented with a crown of gold.
J.: What did the crown represent?
M.: The reward of merit and virtue, and the queenly honor and dignity of a Heroine of Jericho.
J.: What further was said to you?
M.: The Most Ancient Matron invested me with the colors of a Heroine of Jericho. She said they represented purity, love and zeal, and that I must wear them with honor to the Court and pleasure to myself.
J.: What further?
M.: A Scarlet Cord.
J.: What did it remind you of?
M.: The cord was to remind me of approaching danger, and that I was bound to Heroines of Jericho in cords that cannot be broken.
J.: How many standards are they?
M.: Four.
J.: What are their colors?
M.: Black, Crimson, Orange and Green.
J.: What do they represent?
M.: The gates of those four planetary spheres through which souls were said to re-ascend to their original home and source beyond the stars.
J.: Who were said to preside over them?
M.: The four archangels: Michael, Gabriel, Auriel and Raphael.
J.: What were their symbols?
M.: The Four symbolical animals of Ezekiel’s vision.
J.: What are they?
M.: The Lion, the Ox, the Eagle, and the Man.
J.: Upon the standards of what tribes were those borne?
M.: On those of Judah, Ephraim, Dan and Reuben.
J.: What does a Court of Heroines of Jericho represent?
M.: The City of Jericho in the days of Joshua.
M.W.J.: My sister, being exalted to this honorable and sublime degree, we extend to you our most cordial and sincere congratulations. Duty, honor and gratitude now bind you to be faithful to every trust to support with becoming dignity your new character, and to enforce by precepts and example the beautiful lessons set forth in this degree.
The broad principles upon which this Order rests, grow out of the maxim of “doing unto others what we would they should do unto us.” We have accepted you as one fully qualified to appreciate our principles and mysteries and render efficient aid in putting them into practice; we most sincerely trust that in this we have not misjudged you, and will never have occasion to regret your exaltation to this degree. In commemorating the faithfulness of the two spies, Caleb and Joshua, the taking and the fall of Jericho, and the entry of the children of Israel into the land of promise, and to perpetuate the loyalty, fidelity and good deeds of Rahab, you learn that as a Heroine of Jericho, that a promise once given should be kept, though death is threatened.
In this degree every brother Knight owes you, because you are a Heroine of Jericho and betrothed to honor and loyalty, the same devoted loyalty that the Knights of the days of chivalry bore to the ladies whom they had enthroned as their hearts’ queen, and whose favor they wore on helm or arm in battle. Truth and Faith are the truest virtues of liberty, and the memory of noble actions is more enduring than monuments of marble or bronze. You cannot escape from the obligation to labor for others, since the ties of sympathy bind the whole human family together and lead you to reflect upon the true purpose of life, and the true value of human labor. Finally, my sister, be discreet and endeavor to realize the importance of the step you have taken, and govern your future life by the divine precept we have endeavored to unfold, ever remembering your solemn vows.
M.W.J. directs the newly exalted sister to rise and
face the West; he calls up the Court.
M.W.J.: Officers and members of ... Court No. ..., Heroines of Jericho, of the City of ... State of ..., you will take due notice that this Court is now at recreation and will resume labor again at the sound of the gavel in the East.
Heroines and Knights join in giving a hearty welcome to the newly exalted sister. After a brief period the M.A.M. will call the Court to order and proceed with the regular business.
M.A.M.: Most Worthy Joshua, have you anything to bring before this Court before we close?
M.W.J.: I have nothing Most Ancient Matron.
M.A.M.: Worthy Vice Ancient, have you anything to bring before this Court before we close?
V.A.: I have nothing Most Ancient Matron.
M.A.M.: Worthy Court Secretary, have you anything further to offer before we close?
C.Sec.: Nothing Most Ancient Matron, except reading of the minutes and to verify the financial roll.
M.A.M.: You will please read the minutes and call the roll and state the amount paid by each member. The members will answer as their names are called.
Secretary reads minutes which are approved as read, or corrected and read, and then reads the names and amounts paid. Members answer whether correct or not.
M.A.M.: Has any Worthy Heroine or Knight of Jericho present anything to offer for the benefit of this Court or the Rite in general?
If no response: M.A.M.: Worthy Secretary, I will thank you for the receipts of the evening.
C.Sec.: Most Ancient Matron, $ ... and ... cents.
M.A.M.: Most Worthy Joshua, how shall we close?
M.W.J.: Most Ancient Matron, as it was in the beginning, so shall it be in the ending.
M.A.M., *: Worthy Inner Gate Keeper, you will inform the Outer Gate Keeper that this Court is about to close, remove the colors and direct her to take due notice thereof and guard well the outer avenues.
I.G.K. alarms the door, goes out, removes the colors and communicates the orders of the M.A.M., returns, tiles the door.
I.G.K.: Most Ancient Matron, the Outer Gate Keeper has your commands, our colors are secure and the Court is well guarded.
M.A.M., ***: Heroines and Knights, the business of the evening completed the Court will now be closed. In separating, let each Heroine carry in her heart as an inspiration to guide her in all the walks of life, the sublime teachings of our Rite. Worthy Vice Ancient, at the opening of this Court you informed us that you were a Heroine of Jericho, from whence came you as a Heroine of Jericho?
V.A.: From the camp of Israel.
M.A.M.: Worthy Court Treasurer, where are you traveling?
C.Treas.: To the plains of Jericho.
M.A.M.: Worthy Court Secretary, what are you going to receive?
C.Sec.: A blessed inheritance that was promised to our forefathers in the days of Abraham the Faithful.
M.A.M.: Worthy Senior Attendant, It is a long and tedious journey of more than three days.
S.A.: Yes, I travel by day and by night.
M.A.M.: Worthy Junior Attendant, it is very dark tonight.
J.A.: Yes, but not so dark but that I can see.
M.A.M.: Worthy Heroines and Knights, what can you see?
All point to the Scarlet Line on the Ark, and say: A Scarlet Line.
M.A.M.: Why a Scarlet Line?
All: Because it saved my life in the hour of danger.
M.A.M.: It is well. Behold the East and give the Signs.
Signs are given in reverse order, M.A.M. leading.
M.A.M.: Worthy Junior Attendant, you will now close the sacred volume and move the emblems.
J.A. goes to the Ark, salutes, closes the Bible, moves the flax and scarlet line, salutes and returns to her station.
M.A.M.: Worthy Court Director, form the Court in marching order.
Music.
All form in procession on the North side of the room in the following order: the First Court Director acting as Marshal; second, Directors by twos; third, Members by twos; fourth, Ark Bearers by twos; fifth, the Worthy Chaplain and Worthy Vice Joshua; sixth, Court Secretary and Treasurer; seventh, Past Ancient Matron; eighth, Past Grand Officers; Most Ancient Matron, Most Worthy Joshua, Vice Ancient Matron, Inner and Outer Gate keepers, standing in front of their stations. The two Attendants proceed to the throne and cross their rods over the Most Ancient Matron. The procession moves once around the Ark, traveling with the course of the sun; thence from the West to the East in two lines, dividing on the right and left of the Ark; the Directors passing to the West. All join hands and form the circle of Joshua, during which the following Ode is sung:
Just as I am without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidd’st me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God; I come, I come!
Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot
O Lamb of God! I come, I come!
The Chaplain raises his hands.
Chaplain: May the blessings of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, be upon you and remain with you forever and ever, Amen.
All give The Public Grand Honors, M.W.J. leading, after which all stand in position to give the shock, right hand in the left.
M.A.M.: ... Court No. ..., Heroines of Jericho is closed until its next stated meeting unless especially convened, in which case of emergency due and timely notice will be given. Go in peace, and may the remembrance of this meeting be ever pleasant to us all.
All give the shock 3x3: Amen, so be it.
M.A.M.: Inner Gate Keeper, you will inform the Outer Gate Keeper that the court is closed.
I.G.K. communicates the orders to the O.G.K.
I.G.K.: Most Ancient Matron, your commands are obeyed.
M.A.M.: This Court is closed. *.