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→Beliefs
It is without hesitation that I accept the third possibility.</blockquote>
It is without hesitation that I accept the third possibility.</blockquote>
This 'third' option is the Masonic view of God, and is considered heretical from a [http://www.christiananswers.net/q-aiia/religionssame.html Christian perspective]. Contrary to popular belief, Freemasons are not taught to 'prefer' other Masons or to do them special favors. They are pledged, however, to come to the assistance of other Masons if they are in need, so long as this does not involve any violation of one's ethical standards or imperil the well-being of the assisting Mason's family.
This 'third' option is the Masonic view of God, and is considered heretical from a [http://www.christiananswers.net/q-aiia/religionssame.html Christian perspective]. Contrary to popular belief, Freemasons are not taught to 'prefer' other Masons or to do them special favors. They are pledged, however, to come to the assistance of other Masons if they are in need, so long as this does not involve any violation of one's ethical standards or imperil the well-being of the assisting Mason's family. However, excerpts from the oath of the Royal Arch degree contracts the claim of not showing preferential treatment toward other Masons:
<blockquote>:...I furthermore promise and swear, that I will employ a Companion Royal Arch Mason in preference to any other person of equal qualifications,
:I furthermore promise and swear, that I will assist a Companion Royal Arch Mason when I see him engaged in any difficulty, and will espouse his cause so far as to extricate him from the same, '''whether he be right or wrong'''.
:I furthermore promise and swear, that '''I will keep all the secrets of a Companion Royal Arch Mason''' (when communicated so me as such, or I knowing them to be such), '''without exceptions'''...
:To all which I do most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, with a firm and steadfast resolution to keep and perform the same, without any equivocation, mental reservation, or self-evasion of mind in me whatever; '''binding myself under no less penalty, than to have my skull smote off, and my brains exposed to the scorching rays of the meridian sun, should I knowingly or wilfully violate or transgress any part of this my solemn oath''' or obligation of a Royal Arch Mason. So help me God, and keep me steadfast in the due performance of the same.</blockquote>
== Degrees ==
== Degrees ==