The Degree of Rose Croix teaches three things: the unity, immutability and goodness of God; the immortality of the soul; and the ultimate defeat and extinction of evil and wrong and sorrow, by a Redeemer or Messiah, yet to come, if he has not already appeared.
It replaces the three pillars of the old Temple, with three that have already been explained to you – Faith (in God, Mankind, and man’s self). Hope (in victory over evil, the advancement of Humanity, and a hereafter), and Charity (relieving the wants, and tolerant of errors and faults of others).
– Albert S. Pike
15th Degree – Knight of the East of the Sword or of the Eagle:
In this degree “we learn fidelity to obligations and perseverance of purpose under difficulties and discouragement.”
16th Degree – Prince of Jerusalem:
This degree teaches “heroism of patience, the nobility of self-sacrifice” and compassionate judgment, along with charity, fidelity and brotherhood.
17th Degree – Knight of the East and West:
The lessons of this degree are that loyalty to God is man’s primary allegiance, and the temporal governments not founded upon God and His righteousness will inevitably fall.
18th Degree – Knight of the Rose Croix:
This degree teaches that life and it’s strengths come from God. The rose signifies the dawn and the cross is a sacred symbol of antiquity in many cultures. To be tolerant of others errors and faults.
