Prominent masonic scholars discuss the meaning and symbolism behind the three Blue Lodge degrees of Freemasonry, which every mason will encounter, during his initiatic journey. Presented here are the essays: Studies in Blue Lodge Symbolism by H. L. Haywood, Symbolism of the First Degree by Asahel W. Gage, The Wages of an Entered Apprentice by William Harvey, Discourse on the Fellowcraft Degree by Arthur Edward Waite, The Legend of the Winding Stairs by Albert G. Mackey, The Third Degree: Its Ornaments and Emblems by William Harvey and Soliloquy For a Master Mason.