Editor’s Note:
This article was written to address the growing number of misconceptions surrounding the 33rd Degree—particularly those fueled by social media, YouTubers, and conspiracy theories. The intent here is to clarify, not glorify; to reveal the truth of service over status and to invite reflection on what true leadership looks like in Freemasonry.
The secret handshakes?
The stories about leaders conspiring for world domination?
The billionaires.... and yadda, yadda, yadda.... and so on....
That’s the story YouTubers told you, but the truth is more dangerous—because it’s real.
It's not about power or status. It's more about becoming the man most people only pretend to be.
Let’s get this straight.
It’s an invitation.
A man doesn’t chase the 33°.
He earns it—by doing the one thing most men today avoid:
Embracing the opportunity to serve others selflessly and remaining focused on creating positive influences in his community and beyond.
The 33rd degree is conferred, not claimed.
And the men who earn it? They're not influencers. They're not on your feed.
They’re in your community—quietly shaping lives, not narratives.
When you're a 33rd, you’re entrusted to give back to the Craft—the mentoring of the younger Brethren. The preservation of tradition in a world that values nothing long enough to protect it.
Being a 33rd doesn't mean you’re above anyone in the fraternity.
In reality, you’re a servant leader who is beneath everyone—lifting.
You want power? Join a hedge fund. You want to do something that actually matters? Do something for someone else—it'll last longer.
Who gets the 33rd Degree?
- Masons who show up.
- Masons who teach
- Masons who know that real status isn’t on display—it’s embedded in your character.
🚫No clout.
🚫No hustle culture.
🚫No subscription.The biggest lie?
The biggest lie is that the 33rd Degree is about control.
It’s not. It’s about serving.
- Surrendering your time to mentor others.
- Surrendering your pride to learn more about yourself.
- Surrendering your comfort to grow.
And that’s why most men will never get there.
Not because they’re not smart enough… But because of the fact that serving isn't always easy or convenient.
Why does this matter to you?
- Because knowing the reality helps you to make more informed decisions.
- Because you’ve read a hundred conspiracy theories and still feel like something’s missing.
- Because you want the real answers.
That's it.
The conclusion:
What if the secret isn’t that the 33rd Degree hides the truth—
but that it reveals it.Ready to start at Step One? Ask your questions. We'll answer.
Disclaimer:
The views expressed are those of the author and are based on public information and personal reflection. This post should not be interpreted as a statement of authority on the Scottish Rite or any body within Freemasonry.