'Turning the Hiram Key' goes a long way to answering the vexed question "why do men (and women) join Freemasonry? And once joined, why keep attending?" For some, the social activity is of prime importance, for others, no doubt it is the group fellowship. For yet others, there is something much deeper, which Lomas answers by tracing his own Masonic path through the ceremonies of Craft Masonry, sparing no detail as regards his personal feelings.
Apparently, he does not appear to be a religious man, but nevertheless, finds himself seeking some kind of spiritual path, and, being a scientist he sets out to find why this should be so. Drawing on recent neurological research, a very clear pattern of the effects of mythology, ritual and symbolism on the human mind is established and an extensive references are given.
Excellent examples of symbols are shown such as masonic lodge boards of a new and deeper nature than those in current use. An illustration of the Kirkwall scroll is given.
Following on, an updating of the well known work of Walter Leslie Wilmshurst is presented along with a reproduction and explanation of Wilmshurst's 'Tracing Board on the Centre', which has only recently been discovered, not having seen the light of day for 70 years or so. Further consideration is given to the interpretation of old symbols before Dr Lomas gives his attention to the future prospects of Freemasonry.
This very readable book gives a deep insight into Freemasonry without the cant associated with much writing on this topic.
If you only buy one book on the meaning of Masonry, you would be wise to make it this one.