Masonry personifies the timeless combatants against darkness and injustice, standing as the Hercules, Osiris, Apollo, Mithras, and Ormazd of our times. It perpetually battles against the devils of ignorance, savagery, depravity, deceit, spiritual bondage, intolerance, superstition, oppression, pettiness, the arrogance of wealth, and fanaticism.

Expounding on this concept within the context of the 9th degree of the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis-Misraïm (APRMM) of Freemasonry, we can understand that this degree emphasizes the Mason’s ongoing struggle against these negative forces. Like the heroes of old, Masons are seen as warriors, combating the aforementioned evils that plague society.

In the 9th degree, Masons are taught to embody the strength and resilience of Hercules, the wisdom and enlightenment of Osiris, the truth and beauty represented by Apollo, the justice and order of Mithras, and the goodness and truth of Ormazd. They are reminded that their quest is a noble and continuous one, to champion virtues and battle against ignorance, brutality, and other social and moral afflictions.

It is a call to arms for every Mason, who is seen as a soldier in this eternal war against social injustices and moral corruption. The goal is to cultivate a society that promotes fairness, knowledge, and human dignity while denouncing ignorance, brutality, falsehood, and bigotry. The 9th degree thus reaffirms this commitment to a higher moral code and societal duty, emphasizing the Mason’s role as a beacon of light amid darkness.