What Is the 14th Degree in Freemasonry? Scottish Rite Meaning and Ring
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The 14th degree is a Scottish Rite degree, not a fourth step in the basic three-degree Craft system. In U.S. Scottish Rite jurisdictions its title can differ. The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction calls it Grand Elect Mason, while Southern Jurisdiction bodies commonly use Perfect Elu. In both systems it completes the Lodge of Perfection sequence.
Where does the 14th degree fit?
The Craft degrees are Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. The Scottish Rite is an additional Masonic path available to eligible Master Masons. Its Lodge of Perfection covers the 4th through 14th degrees.
This is why a “14th-degree Mason” should not be read as someone fourteen ranks above an ordinary Master Mason. Degree systems and lodge offices are different structures. See Degrees of Freemasonry Explained for the larger map.
What does the 14th degree mean?
Official public descriptions present the 14th as the capstone of the Lodge of Perfection and connect it with moral development, self-examination, duty, integrity, and continued improvement. “Perfection” is better read as an ideal to work toward than a claim that the member has literally become perfect.
Why are there two common names?
Scottish Rite practice is organized by jurisdiction. The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction publicly lists 14° as Grand Elect Mason. Southern Jurisdiction bodies commonly call it Perfect Elu. If you are identifying an old certificate, ring, or family record, establish the jurisdiction and date before assuming one title is universal.
What is the 14th-degree ring?
The 14th degree is associated in several Scottish Rite traditions with a ring. The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction says its Scottish Rite ring may be worn after receiving the 14th degree and that wearing it is optional. Exact design, inscription, presentation, and usage can vary.
An inherited ring can be a useful clue, but it does not tell the whole story by itself. Names, dates, certificates, lodge records, and Scottish Rite Valley records can make identification much stronger. Current public discussions continue to show family members trying to identify 14th-degree and Scottish Rite rings, which is one reason jurisdiction and provenance matter.
Is the 14th degree higher than Master Mason?
Not in the sense of a universal chain of command. Master Mason is the third Craft degree. The 14th belongs to the Scottish Rite, an appendant Masonic body. Lodge leadership is separate again: a Worshipful Master leads a local lodge, while a Grand Master leads a Grand Lodge or jurisdiction under its own rules.
How is it different from the 33rd degree?
The 14th is part of the Scottish Rite degree sequence. The 33rd is an honorary distinction rather than the ordinary next step after 32°. Read 33 Masonic Meaning for that distinction.
FAQ
What is the 14th degree called?
In the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction it is Grand Elect Mason. In many Southern Jurisdiction settings it is Perfect Elu. Names and details vary by jurisdiction.
Is the 14th degree part of Blue Lodge?
No. Blue Lodge or Craft Masonry centers on the first three degrees. The 14th is part of the Scottish Rite.
Do you have to be a Master Mason first?
U.S. Scottish Rite membership is built on Master Mason status. Eligibility and recognition rules should be checked with the relevant Scottish Rite jurisdiction.
Is a 14th-degree ring the same as a 33rd-degree ring?
No. They are associated with different Scottish Rite degrees and traditions.
Related Masonic guides
Looking for a general Masonic keepsake? Browse Masonic Coins & Freemason Gifts. CWM does not currently have a product we can responsibly identify as a 14th-degree-specific item, so unrelated Scottish Rite merchandise should not be presented as one.