The Degrees
Bodies &
Degrees
The Scottish Rite confers twenty-nine degrees — the 4th through 32nd — organized into four bodies. Each degree is a dramatic presentation exploring the moral and philosophical teachings that have guided Freemasonry for centuries.
Understanding the Degrees
More Light in Masonry
The degrees of the Scottish Rite are not higher than the Master Mason degree — they are additional degrees that amplify and expand upon its teachings. A candidate must be a Master Mason in good standing to receive the degrees of the Scottish Rite.
Each degree is conferred through dramatic presentation, using allegory and symbolism to convey timeless moral lessons. Some degrees are conferred in full costume and regalia; others are communicated through reading and explanation.
The Four Bodies
Lodge of Perfection
The Ancient Craft Degrees
Chapter of Rose Croix
The Christian Degrees
Council of Kadosh
The Chivalric & Philosophical Degrees
Consistory
The Administrative Degrees
Honorary Degree
By invitation only
4°–14°
Lodge of Perfection
The Ancient Craft Degrees
The Lodge of Perfection confers the 4th through 14th degrees, exploring themes of loyalty, devotion to truth, and the search for the lost word. These degrees build upon the foundations of the Blue Lodge and introduce the candidate to the deeper philosophical teachings of Freemasonry.
15°–18°
Chapter of Rose Croix
The Christian Degrees
The Chapter of Rose Croix confers the 15th through 18th degrees, with the 18th degree — Knight Rose Croix — being one of the most beautiful and moving ceremonies in all of Freemasonry. These degrees explore themes of faith, hope, and charity, and the search for truth through the lens of universal religious philosophy.
19°–30°
Council of Kadosh
The Chivalric & Philosophical Degrees
The Council of Kadosh confers the 19th through 30th degrees, exploring the chivalric traditions of medieval knighthood and the philosophical underpinnings of justice, liberty, and truth. The 29th degree — Knight of St. Andrew — is conferred in full costume and regalia and is among the most dramatic in the Scottish Rite.
31°–32°
Consistory
The Administrative Degrees
The Consistory confers the 31st and 32nd degrees — the culminating degrees of the Scottish Rite. The 32nd degree, Master of the Royal Secret, is the highest degree regularly conferred and represents the full embodiment of Scottish Rite philosophy: the duty of every Mason to serve God, his country, and his fellow man.
Court of Honor
KCCH — Knight Commander of the Court of Honor
The Knight Commander of the Court of Honor (KCCH) is an honor conferred by the Supreme Council upon 32° Scottish Rite Masons who have rendered distinguished service to the Scottish Rite, their community, or Freemasonry. It is not applied for — it is awarded in recognition of meritorious service and dedication. KCCH members are entitled to wear the distinctive red cap and are eligible for future consideration for the 33° Honorary Degree.
Honorary Degree
Inspector General Honorary
The 33rd degree is an honorary degree conferred by the Supreme Council upon Scottish Rite Masons who have made outstanding contributions to Freemasonry, their community, or humanity. It is not applied for — it is bestowed as a recognition of exceptional service.
Ready to Receive the Degrees?
Master Masons in good standing are eligible to petition the Valley of Wichita for membership. Contact us to learn more about our next reunion and how to begin your Scottish Rite journey.