It is also important to point out that the mystic tie is an excellent example of how the language of Masonic ritual aids in helping men develop an intuition or deeper understanding about Masonry without having much prior knowledge of it. There are many such words in Masonic ritual--sacred appellation, hieroglyphic light, mystic art, chain of affection. These words suggest the fraternity comprises a philosophy; the language itself carries with it keys that reveal there must be a fundamental spiritual quality in Masonry's instruction.

Men of the mystic tie may sound a bit archaic to the ear of the 21st century initiate, but the phrase does suggest that Freemasonry is a society of cultivated men, that it is rooted in intellectual aspirations, and that men who belong must strive for certain kinds of mental achievements. Those who become members of the ancient craft thus take on an unique identity; they are aware that this relationship of brotherhood is to be something special, something spiritual, something related to the ideas one may have acquired from sacred writings or mythology--something related to a greater purpose.

The word mystic is derived from a Greek word which means "an initiate into the ancient mysteries." All this may seem too eccentric for some; and indeed it likely is. But Masonry is not for everybody. It is for the seeker of wisdom. It has always been popular enough to appeal to the man who wants a kind of mystic consecration with his fellow beings. After all, it is the nature of men to seek that which is hidden and, like Prometheus, to acquire "the knowledge of the gods."

The real secrets in Masonry lie in the experience which the members of the fraternity have undergone together. The mystic tie is their expression for this experience.