THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH DEGREE

Solomon's Council.) King Solomon (if present) or Queen

The Queen of the South and King Solomon Council is an Bathsheba calls the Palace to order in the usual manner.
androgynous Degree, which is given to members ninety (90) (*) (One gavel rap)
days after completing their Order of the Eastern Star Degree and
their Master Masons Degree. Line-Up when Marching In
By androgynous, it means that it is characterized by both males (The marching in for the King Solomon's Council
and females. is on page 32 and 33)

All Masons and Stars of international Masons are to have the To open the Palace, King Solomon (Stationed in the East)
Queen of the South and King Solomon' s Degree. This will give standing, calls up the Officers with(**) (Two gavel raps) and
them an intimate bond, and a token of recognition whereby they state the following:
may know Masons - and be known to them.
King Solomon: Officers please go out and prepare to march in.

(The Queen Bathsheba goes to the left of King Solomon followed

OPENING CEREMONIES by Financial Leah, Recording Leah, Marshal, Hagar, and Syene.
The Queen Bathsheba stops and Ozie! steps in front of the Queen
All those members who have received this Degree may be Bathsheba and leads the officers out. Simultaneously on the
present. The officers are eighteen (18) in number. The Officers right side, Myra followed by the Chaplain, Ellah, Orpha,
receive the following titles for this Degree. Prince or Princess Tharah, Hattipha, and Zorah remains at station.)(Please note:
may be used in front of the names, whichever is applicable: the Financial Leah crosses over the Recording Leah and Ellah
crosses over Orpha.)

(Both lines march straight to the back of Hattipha's station

King Solomon Marshal making the square to go behind Hattipha 's station and
Queen Bathsheba Warder proceeding further to the west, and then make a u-turn to
Hattipha Sentinel position themselves facing towards the east. The Queen
Oziel Organist Bathsheba stations herself in the middle between the two lines in
Zorah Hagar the back.)
Myra Orpha
Financial Leah Syene Right Side (of King Solomon) (Left Side (of King Solomon)
Recording Leah Tharah Zorah Oziel
Chaplain Ellah Myra Financial Leah
Chaplain Recording Leah
Ellah Marshal
All Officers take their stations before the meeting begins. The Orpha Hagar
Bible is already open on the Altar. (The Bible is opened to Tharah Syene
Matthew 2:2 in the Palace, and Masonic Scripture in the King Hattipha Queen Bathsheba
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 King Solomon: Princes and Princesses, the hour has come in
King Solomon: Zorah please go out and escort the officers in. which I need your attention and assistance. Hattipha, you will see
if all present are entitled to be here.
(Zorah goes out, squaring corners in front of Myra. King
Solomon calls up the Palace with(***) (Three gavel raps). (Hattipha answers at once or ;fnot sure- calls upon Ozie! and
Ozie! and Zorah lead the officers in line - stops a little behind Zorah to collect the pass. Females use 0. E. S. pass; Males
Hattipha's station) use Masonic Lodge pass. After Ozie! and Zorah collects the
pass, they will go to Hattipha, report, and remaining standing
King Solomon: Oziel please escort the Queen Bathsheba to (facing the East) until Hattipha reports to King Solomon
the East. before returning to their station.
(As Ozie! turns and passes the officers, the officers (both lines)
face Ozie!. Ozie! goes to the right side of the Queen Bathsheba if there is a member without the pass, King Solomon will ask if
and proceeds to escort her. As the Queen Bathsheba passes the anyone can vouch for each member standing. If member is
officers, they turn facing the east, Hattipha takes the position in vouched for, the person who vouched for that member will give
the middle between the two lines in the back, and all wait for the member the pass. Ozie! and/or Zorah will return to the
instructions. member (s) and take up the pass, then report back to Hattipha.)

King Solomon meets Ozie/ (at Oziel's station) and escorts Queen Hattipha: Most excellent King Solomon, I find that all here are
Bathsheba to the East. Ozie/ returns to the line-up. King entitled to be present.
Solomon turns gavel over to the Queen Bathsheba) (Oziel and Zorah returns to their stations.)

Queen Bathsheba: Will all officers take their stations. King Solomon: It is well. Warder, you will give this message to
the Sentinel, that he/she shall guard this Palace and prevent any
(Ozie! and Zorah lead the officers towards the east. Ozie! and interruptions.
Zorah go to the east and turn facing west and the officers turn
towards their stations. As Ozie! and Zorah march back to their (The Warder signals the Sentinel in the usual manner.) (*****)
stations, the officers walk in front of their stations. When Ozie! Five raps, followed by (*) one rap - and after getting the answer,
and Zorah turn at their stations, then all the officers turn at their gives the message to them.) The Warder opens the door and
stations. The Queen Bathsheba hands the gavel to the King he/she gives the message to the Sentinel.
Solomon. King Solomon seats the Palace (*) (One gavel rap).)
Warder: Most excellent King Solomon, your message to the
Sentinel has been delivered.
King Solomon: Warder, you will see that the doors to the Palace
are secure. King Solomon: Hattipha, who are the Officers of the Palace, and
(The Warder only checks the door, does not open door) where are they stationed?

(As Hattipha name the officers, each officer will stand.)

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Hattipha: Most Excellent King Solomon, the Officers of the
Palace are (18) eighteen in number. Their titles and stations are: King Solomon: Myra, what are the duties of your station?
King Solomon, in the East; Queen Bathsheba, in the East - on
the right of King Solomon; Hattipha, in the West; Ozie1, in the Myra: My duties are to receive and deposit all gifts and
South; Zorah, in the North; Myra, in the Northeast; Financial offerings in the royal treasury of the Most Excellent King
Leah, in the Southeast; Recording Leah, in the Southeast; Hagar, Solomon.
on the left of King Solomon in front; Orpha, on the right of
Solomon - in front; Syene, on the right of Hattipha - in front; King Solomon: Financial Lea h, what are the duties of your
Tharah, on the left of Hattipha - in front; Ellah, on the right of station?
King Solomon - in front; Warder, at the door - inside; Sentinel,
at the door - outside; Marshal, to the right of Leah - in front; Financial Leah: Receive and record all finances, tum them over
Chaplain, to the left of Myra - in front; Organist, seated at the to Myra - and to receive a receipt for the same.
Organ.
King Solomon: Recording Leah, what are the duties of your
King Solomon: Queen Bathsheba, tell us the duties of your station?
station.
Recording Leah: Most Excellent King Solomon, my duties are
Queen Bathsheba: Most Excellent King Solomon, my duties are to make a record of what is done here in the Palace, and keep
to act in behalf of the Queen of Sheba, and get for her the royal them in the chronicles of the Kingdom.
favor of King Solomon.
King Solomon: This is the true revelation of the duties of the
King Solomon: Hattipha, what are your duties in the Palace? Palace. That they may be done in wisdom; let us ask for Divine
counsel.
Hattipha: Most Excellent King Solomon, it is my duty to assist
in welcoming the Queen of Sheba, and to act in her behalf the (Calls up the Palace with (**:I) (Three gavel raps.)
royal favor of King Solomon. Zorahcomes and escorts the Chaplain to the place of prayer
[going between Tharah and Hattiphaj. After the prayer, Zorah
King Solomon: Oziel, what are your duties in the Palace? escorts the Chaplain back to his/her station, and Zorah returns
to his/her station. King Solomon seats the Palace with(*) (One
Oziel: My duties are to see that the Palace is ready to receive gavel rap).
vis itors; to receive the Queen of the South, and to introduce them
to the Most Excellent King Solomon. (Note: Zorah escorts the Chaplain to the opposite side of the
bible.)
King Solomon: Zorah, What are your duties in the Palace?
The presiding Officers then proceed with the business of the
Zorah: My duties are to see that the Palace is ready for the Palace.
proper recept ion of visitors; to help Oziel receive and introduce
the Queen of the South to the Most Excellent King Solomon.
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 CLOSING CEREMONIES Marching Out (Optional)

(The Queen Bathsheba hands the gavel to the King Solomon) Oziel and Zorah approach the East. Queen Bathsheba will
follow Behind Zorah to the right. King Solomon will follow
King Solomon: Queen Bathsheba, are you aware of anything behind Oziel to the left. Officers will follow as outlined below:
else to come before the Palace at this time?
RIGHT SIDE LEFT SIDE
Queen Bathsheba: No, Most Excellent King Solomon, there is
nothing further within my knowledge. Zorah Ozie!
Queen Bathshe ba King Solomon
King Solomon: Warder, you will inform the Sentinel that we are M yra Financial Leah
about to close the Palace, and direct them to permit no Chaplain Recording Leah
interruptions. Orpha Marshall
Ellah Hagar
{The Warder does so, in the usual manner.) (*****) five raps, Tharah Syene
followed by (*) one rap and after getting the answer, opens the Warder
door and gives the message to them.) Sentinel
Hattipha
Warder: Most Excellent King Solomon, your instructions
have
been obeyed. Zorah and Ozie! will stop at Hattipha's station and the Queen
Bathsheba and King Solomon will approach Hattipha (King
King Solomon: It is well. Solomon and Queen Bathsheba are facing each other)

(King Solomon calls up the Palace with (***) (Three gavel Hattipha steps out and marches in the middle to the back of the
raps); Zorah will escort the Chaplain to the place of prayer room.
[going between Tharah and Hattipha}. Chaplain gives a closing
prayer. After the prayer, Zorah escorts the Chaplain back to Zorah and Oziel and line of Officers follow to the left and right
his/her station, and Zorah returns to station. of Hattipha.

King Solomon: Oziel, please attend the Altar [going between Zorah and Oziel will go back to the back of the room and turn
Syene and Hattipha]. (Ozie! closes the Bible and returns to around (leaving space for King Solomon and Queen Bathsheba)
his/her station.)
Hattipha will go to the left side of Zorah (right side of
King Solomon: I now declare this Palace closed. (Closes the Officers will follow making a line in the back of the room)
Palace with(*) one gavel rap.)
Financial Leah will go to the right side of Oziel (left side of
Officers will follow making a line in the back of the room)

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When all the Officers are in place:
Zorah and Oziel will march to Hattipha 's station and stand on the
left and right side of King Solomon and Queen Bathsheba (who King Solomon: The Degree of Queen of the South is based upon
are facing the west) the story of the visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon, as
related in the Holy Bible. The name of Solomon has come down
Zorah---Queen Bathsheba---King Solomon---Oziel march to the to us as a synonym for wisdom, honor and righteousness. Even in
back of the room- all four turning around at the same time his own time, when there were no newspapers, nor any word, or
closing the circle in the back. wireless communications; when travel was difficult and tiresome
by caravan or sailing ship; even then - the fame of King
The presiding Officer will ask all members to form a circle Solomon had spread throughout the civilized world. The
around the room, saying the final prayer, then stating the meeting magnificent temple, and the Royal Palace which he had built; the
is closed until the next regular scheduled meeting, and give the great riches which he had gained; the remarkable wisdom which
farewell. the King showed in ruling his subjects and in deciding all
questions, gave him a renown which extended to the far comers
This Degree is usually followed by a social hour, banquet, or of the world.
some other suitable entertainment. Solomon, on taking the throne after the death of his
father, David, prayed for an understanding heart, so that he could
judge his people and rule wisely. His prayer was answered, and
he was given wisdom and understanding that made all people
CONFERRING THE DEGREE marvel. Success and honor came to him and he was, indeed, a
mighty King. There came to the Palace representatives of all
King Solomon: Prince and Princesses, there are in the scriptures people to hear the wisdom of Solomon from all the kingdoms of
- both in the New and the Old Testament, many stirring incidents the earth, where the fame of his wisdom had spread. All the earth
and inspiring accounts of noble characters. The incident sought Solomon, to hear his wisdom which God had put in his
concerning the Queen of Sheba is an illustration of the wisdom heart. Among the many famous people who came to visit the
and desire of cooperation of our Brother and Sister leaders. We King, to prove his knowledge and to profit by his understanding,
shall now proceed to give the Degree to our waiting candidates. I was the Queen of Sheba. The degree of the Queen of the South
now declare this Palace open to give the Degree. Warder, you recalls the visit.
will now instruct the Sentinel that we are about to give the King Solomon had built a magnificent Royal Palace, and
Degree of the Queen of the South, and that there must be no to this Palace came Kings and Ambassadors and people of all
interruptions from without during this ceremony. nations. Seated upon his majestic throne of ivory and gold, and
surrounded by his officers and courtiers, King Solomon received
(The Warder goes to the door and does so, in the usual manner.) all people wisely and graciously.
(*****) five raps, followed by(*) one rap, and after getting the Zorah, you will go to see if any are waiting to be received
answer, opens the door and gives the message to them.) into the audience chamber of the palace.

Warder: Most Excellent King Solomon your instructions have (Zorah goes to the door in the usual manner.) (*****) five raps,
been obeyed. followed by ('1') one rap, and after getting the answer, opens the
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15
door and receives the report. Zorah comes back just in front of
King Solomon: Oziel, you will go with suitable escorts
Tharah 's station and report.)
(Hagar, Ellah, Orpha, Syene, and Tharah stands), to welcome
Zorah: Most Excellent King Solomon, there are certain men and and conduct the Queen of Sheba into the presence of the King.
ladies, Master Masons, and members of the Order of the Eastern
(Hagar will turn to the west, and follow behind Syene. Syene
Star, who await the royal summons into the palace. They come
will turn left, and follow behind Tharah. Orpha will turn to the
seeking entrance into the Palace; that they may hear the words of
west and follow behind Ozie!. Ellah will follow behind Orpha.
wisdom which were spoken of old, by King Solomon to the
Tharah, Syene, Hagar, will follow behind Elf ah.)
Queen of Sheba. They are ready to pledge to keep the secrets and
the rules and regulations of this Degree, and are altogether
(Music should be played or sung during the entrance of the
worthy to be admitted into your presence.
candidates; suggested song: "We 're going to see The King. " The
candidates are escorted by Zorah, Ozie!, Hagar, Orpha, Syene,
King Solomon: Zorah, you will go to the outer portals of the
Tharah and Ellah.)
Palace, and make the candidates ready for entrance.
{The line-up: Ozie!, Hagar, Zorah, Queen of Sheba, candidates,
(Zorah leaves to the outer portals of the Palace to prepare the
Ellah, Orpha, Syene, and Tharah}
candidates. If there is more than one candidate to receive the
Degree, one should be chosen to act as the Queen of Sheba.
(King Solomon calls up the Palace(***) Three gavel raps.)
Other candidates act as the courtiers of the Queen the Sheba.
Oziel: Most Excellent King Solomon, the noble Queen of Sheba
All being ready, Zorah raps on the door, (*****) five raps,
with her court, stands before you presenting her written petition
followed by (*) one rap, and is answered by Oziel, who opens the
(applications) - which I carry. (Ozie! takes the petitions to
door. Zorah steps inside Palace, closes the door, and talks to
Recording Leah).
Ozie!.)
King Solomon: Let the petition(s) be read by Leah. (Recording
Zorah: Ozie1, I bring to the door of the audience chamber, the
Leah read the names of the persons being conferred the degree).
Queen of Sheba, who is ready and waiting for entrance into the
presence of King Solomon.
Recording Leah: Makeda, Queen of the South, has heard of the
fame of the mighty and Illustrious King Solomon, and come to
(Zorah goes back to the outer portals of the Palace. Ozie! goes
Jerusalem to prove his wisdom with hard questions. She brings
and stands at Zorah's station, and reports to King Solomon.)
with her a large court, and many camels laden with spices, pure
gold, and precious stones. She seeks the favor of the King, that
Oziel: Most Excellent King Solomon, Zorah reports that the
he may grant her an audience in his mighty presence.
Queen of Sheba is ready and waiting for entrance into the
audience chamber of the Palace.
King Solomon: The request of the most eminent Queen of Sheba
has been granted. Let her voice be heard in the royal audience
chamber. (*) (One gavel rap - seats the Palace) Let the petitions
of the most noble Queen of Sheba be heard.
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17
(Hagar, Orpha, Syene, Tharah, Ellah, Hattipha, Leah and Queen
Bathsheba rise and speak on behalf of the Queen of Sheba. that thou should not fail to inherit the kingdom and sit on the
Note: Each one rise, one at a time; after speaking waits until throne, as it was promised thee. Thus, did thy mother seek an
King Solomon answers, then sits down.) audience with King David and secure for thee the throne of
Israel. Thus, did a woman most surely enter in the purpose and
King Solomon: Speak, Hagar. counsels of the Almighty.
At another time, two women - Hebrew mothers, stood up in
Hagar: From a kingdom far to the South, Oh King, the Queen of thy audience chamber and made their claims - each for the one
Sheba has come to seek thy presence. She has heard of thine living child, neither for the child that was dead. Through the
illustrious wisdom and honor and righteousness, and wishes to claims of these two women thou was called upon to show that
prove thee with hard que tions. To the farthest comers of the wisdom of God which was in you, to rule and to judge. As thou
world thy renown has gone. From the ends of the eaiih they did listen unto those Hebrew women and did prove thy great
come to learn wisdom from thy lips. From a far country, by a wisdom, so do thou listen unto me and refuse me not in my
long journey over mountains and rivers and plains has this Queen request for the Queen of Sheba.
come up from the South that she, too, might profit by thy great
understanding. A woman, ruler over many people, she seeks King Solomon: Orpha, by your reasonable speech, you have
wisdom from thy lips, the like of which is not known to other overcome the objection which I offered. Yet, in all history I am
men. As the Most High God hath granted thee to hear her not able to find a record of such a request made by a woman, or
petition and to refuse nothing of her request. of such and audience granted to a woman. As the king of Israel, I
hesitate to set a precedent in this matter for which I can find no
King Solomon: Hagar, thou hast spoken well. Most Noble
justification in all the pages of our history.
Queen of Sheba, thy zeal is commendable and thy earnestness in
making the long journey from the South in order to increase thine
Syene: Most Excellent King Solomon, permit me also to speak
own wisdom to rule over thy people is praise worthy. Yet, I must
in behalf of this gracious Queen.
refuse thy request. For in the Holy Scriptures, wherein are
recorded the dealings of the Most High God with mankind, there
is not to be found any instance where a woman entered into His King Solomon: Speak, Syene.
counsels.
Syene: Recorded in the Holy Scriptures, we have found
Orpha: Most Excellent King Solomon, hear me for this most instances where the Almighty God has used the voice of a
eminent Queen, and consider my request. woman to proclaim his decrees. In addition to those illustrious
women named by Orpha, allow me to remind you of Jael, the
King Solomon: Speak, Orpha wife of Heber, the Kenite, who by her cleverness and bravery rid
her country forever of it's most dangerous enemy; Miriam, the
Orpha: When David, thy royal father, was old and stricken in prophetess, sister of Moses, whom she was able to aid by her
years, men of his kingdom conspired to make thy older brother counsel and praise, while he was the law-giver and director of
Adonijah king. It was then thy noble mother, Bathsheba, went the people of Israel; Deborah, another prophetess, living under a I
unto the king as he sat in his chamber, a very old man, and palm tree and judging Israel. She advised Barak and went with
warned him of the danger of the times. It was she who pleaded him to counsel him in the defense of the nation, to save the
I
18 people from destruction. In the Holy writ are so many examples
19 I
of women serving as an agent to work the will of God; that Ellah: Most Excellent King Solomon, pennit me to make a
surely the wisest of all rulers will not fail to recognize the worth further plea in behalf of the Queen of Sheba.
of women, and to acknowledge her claims. Hear, Oh King, my
petition, and grant the request of this noble Queen.
King Solomon: Speak, Ellah.
King Solomon: You have spoken well, Oh Syene. Yet, one other
Ellah: How can it be said that woman is less than man in mind
objection presents itself: the unfortunate reputation of your sex
and in soul? She is his helpmate in sorrow, in trouble and
for indiscretion in talking. The knowledge which the noble
affliction. God's words are spoken to woman as well as to man.
Queen of Sheba seeks to obtain was told to me secretly by the
This woman before you has been chosen to rule over a mighty
Most High, in th silent watches of the night, even as Samuel \\ people. Since her position is high and her power is great, should
heard the bidding of Jehovah in the midnight stillness of the
tabernacle. Would it be becoming in a King to reveal these she not be permitted to receive the Divine wisdom necessary to
J1 carry out her obligations as Queen?
secrets to women, to be repeated here and there without reserve?
No secrets are to be entrusted to women.
King Solomon: Ellah, your plea is well made. Yet, how shall it
be said that woman and man shall together receive these secrets,
Tharah: Most Excellent King Solomon, allow me to add my
and meet the requirements of convention, keeping that reverse,
voice to the petition of the Queen of Sheba.
modesty and decorous conduct which should attend their
associations?
King Solomon: Proceed, Tharah.
Hattipha: Hear me, Oh King, as I make reply for the Queen of
Tharah: Recall, Oh King, the silence of Jochebed, the mother of
Sheba.
Moses. In guarding the secret of his birth for three months,
braving the anger of Pharaoh, and sav ing for Israel the nation's
King Solomon: Speak, Hattipha
greatest counselor and law-giver. Know, Oh King, that woman is
capable ofrising to her responsibilities and she has proven to be
Hattipha: You see before you the Queen of Sheba, a woman
faithful to her trusts. Treat her as a slave, and she may prove to
crowned with royalty and given the power to rule over many
be as unreliable as a slave. Treat her as an equal, and a friend,
men. If she be allowed to govern men, why should she not also
and her loyalty and firmness will prove her to be in truth an equal
receive the knowledge to guide her in her judgement? Where is
and a friend. Surely, Oh Mighty King, thy noble officers and
there a question of propriety in filling nobly the station in which
courtiers can testify to the truth of this claim. Ifthere be in your ·1
God has placed her? But, if King Solomon must refuse to give
heart any memories of the wise and helpful women, hear our
the wisdom which he has received from above, then King
petition and grant the request of the most eminent Queen of J Solomon will be denying this wisdom to men and women, whose
Sheba. .
hearts have been confident of thy supreme wisdom. To all men
must she make reply that the greatest of all rulers, known to all
King Solomon: Well have you spoken, Tharah; yet, through the
the world for his understanding, had denied her that Divine
ages woman has been called the inferior of man. Why should the
wisdom which she urgently needed and humbly sought. No more
knowledge given to man alone be told to the weaker creature.
shall her petition be heard . Blindly will she struggle for some

20 21
measure of that wisdom which was given only to King Solomon? King Solomon: Righteous lips are the delight of Kings. Most
Pray not let this be said. Noble Sheba Queen of the South, I must acknowledge that these
pleadings have convinced me of the worth of your claims.
King Solomon: Leah, look you in the Holy Book, in the law and Although Samson suffered for giving up his secret to Delilah,
in the prophets, and see if it will give any light to the relation of and Saul fell a victim to the spell of the witch of Endor, yet have
man and woman. I faith in the sincerity of your motives in seeking the secrets
which have been revealed to me. Truly these people, thy friends
Leah: Most excellent King Solomon, all scriptures point to the and advocates, have spoken with wisdom, and in their tongues is
worth of woman in the Divine plan: how that male and female the law of kindness. Adorned with strength and honor is this
company of noble persons. According to the Holy Scriptures,
both were created in the image of God; how that woman was
Jehovah shall lay up sound wisdom for the righteous, and His
made as a helpmate for man; how the widow is named as an
secrets shall be revealed to them that fear him.
object of kindly benevolence and affection. The historical books
of the Bible name many illustrious women who took a great part Queen of Sheba: Most Excellent King Solomon, what you have
in the history of Israel. They are always mentioned in terms of said is wise and good, and upon my return to that far country
reverence and respect. In God's favor and mercy, these eminent from whence I came, I shall try to pass on these words of
women who took an equal part with men: Samson's mother, wisdom, teaching others what is good and acceptable thing
Samuel's mother, those lovely heroines, Ruth, Esther, Martha, which the Lord asks of all who truly love Him. Oh King,
Electa and Jephthah' s daughter, and many other great women of gracious Queen Bathsheba, Noble Princes and Princesses, who
history testify to the importance of women in Divine purposes. have spoken for me, permit me to thank you for your faith in
womankind here so confidently expressed. Never shall you have
King Solomon: Tell me, Bathsheba, mother and Queen, whether reason to regret this confidence, nor may the King fear that any
in the writings of my father, David the King, may be found man or woman shall unlawfully reveal the secrets entrusted to
anything about the relations of man and woman. them.

Bathsheba: In the Psalms of David, your noble father, Most (King Solomon sounds the gavel(*) one gavel rap) calling
Excellent King Solomon, there are no distinct references to the Palace to order.)
woman, however in the Holy writ of the God of your Father,
King Solomon: King Solomons and Princesses, by means of this
may be found respectful references to woman, and there is no
beautiful allegory we have regarded the various objections that
indication that she is regarded as an inferior being. In telling of
have been presented against the admission of women into a
the glories of the Kingdom of Christ, the Holy writ refers to them
knowledge of the principles of Free Masonry. The arguments
as a beautiful and virtuous woman and It speaks of the loss of a
made convinced me of the right of the Queen of Sheba to hear
mother as the deepest sorrow that could come to man. In the
my secrets. In ancient days, foolish prejudice against women
scriptures we find, the term man is used as meaning the human
possessed men and prevented them from entering into the
race, not a superior part of that race. As a mother and a Queen, I
privileges which God provided for them to enjoy. In this
ask thee; let not thy wisdom be brought into questio n by a refusal
enlightened time, let's prove our wisdom by having women
to hear this woman, who has come afar to prove it.
occupy a place of equal honor with man - in education, in
business, in the professions, and in affairs of government, and
22 23
 in their adoption into Masonry. The honorable and high
purposes of Masonic principles have had effects in winning to QUEEN OF THE SOUTH
Masonry the virtuous, intelligent and influential women. AND KING SOLOMON OBLIGATION
According to the beliefs of the Order of the Eastern Star,
Adoptive Masonry stands a bright monument to feminine secrecy (A Bible is placed in the candidate's left hand. The right hand is
and fidelity, obedience, loyalty, truth and heroic endurance. It raised. When two or more candidates are taking the Obligation,
proves the error of those who think a woman is not to be trusted the candidates turn to their right, Ozie! holds the Bible and the
with a secret. There is not in the whole of the ceremonies of this Queen of Sheba places her left hand on the Bible. With their left
Rite a single point with which one could find fault. On the hand, the candidates will intertwine themselves, forming a chain,
contrary, all is pure and beautiful; it is among the brightest symbolically joining themselves with each candidate. The left
jewels in the records of Masonry. hand is placed under the left elbow of the member in front of
With the greatest pleasure, I hail each woman here as a them. The candidates look towards the East. Zorah stand at the
member of the Queen of the South, and each Master Masons as a end of candidates.
member of the King Solomon's Council, delighted to share
Masonic privileges and employments as much as is lawfully Presiding Officer: Raise your right hand and repeat after me.
permitted.
Master Masons: I, (your name), in the presence of these
Bathsheba: Those secrets pertaining to the Lodge of Free witnesses, and in addition to my former obligation, I pledge the
Masonry, we do not seek to learn. We do not wish to make sacred honor of a Master Mason.
unreasonable demands upon our Brothers as Master Masons.
Yet, as equals in the sight of God, we are intimately bound to the Eastern Stars: I, (your name), in the presence of these
Masonic fraternity; we seek that token of recognition whereby witnesses, and in addition to my former obligation, I pledge the
we may know Masons and be known of them as sharing in the sacred honor of an Eastern Star.
Masonic privileges. Whatever knowledge is of advantage to us
for the advancement of womankind, we share with Masons who
find us worthy of their trust. For "woman's heart beats
responsive to the same inspiration that prompts man to noble All: To the faithful performance of the conditions of this
deeds" obligation.
That I will not be present nor assist in conferring this Degree on
King Solomon: Brothers and Sisters, candidates for the Degree any man not masonically known to me to be a Master Mason, nor
of the Queen of the South, the purpose of the Degree have been on any lady not vouched for as being a woman of clean moral
clearly expressed through this dramatic presentation. You will character, and having received the Eastern Star Degree.
now be given the Queen of the South and King Solomon
obligation. (The candidate then kisses the Bible once. This seals their
obligation.) Note: Ozie! and Zorah will pass the Bible halfway to
(King Solomon gives(***) (Three gavel raps). The Palace is each other to avoid walking in front of the alter.
called up.)
(*) (One gavel rap) The Palace is seated.
24 25
 Duty: Guiding head of the Palace and
presides over the meetings; regulates the
The Signs and Passes are then given, and the Queen of the South
business of the Palace. Duties are to act in
Emblem is explained.
behalf of the Queen of Sheba and ensure
her the royal favor of King Solomon.
PASS
Stationed in the East, on the right of King
The pass is the same as the Pass in your Master Mason, or your
Solomon.
Order of the Eastern Star Chapter.
King Solomon: David's son by Bathsheba (1 Kings 1:5-
SIGNS
40; 2 Chronicles 2-7)
The Hailing Sign: A star raises her left hand and covers her
chin, and looks at the Mason. She may repeat this two or three
Duty: Guiding head of the King
times.
Solomons and King Solomon's Council;
confers degree on all candidates. Instructs
The Answer Sign: Is made by a Master Mason using his right
the King Solomons and King Solomon's
hand in the same way. On approaching each other, the Mason
Council. Stationed in the East.
addresses the Star as "Queen of Sheba" or just "Sheba"; the Star
addresses the Mason as " King Solomon" or "Solomon" .
Hattipha: Founded a family ofNethinim members
who returned from Babylon with
The Grand Honor Sign: The Grand Honor Signs is the same as
Zerrubbabel. (Ezra 2:54-56; Nehemiah
in your Master Masons Lodge and Order of the Eastern Star
7:56) Nethinim means dedicated; priests; a
Chapter.
class or order associated with the temple
service and worship (1 Chronicles 9:2)
THE EMBLEM
Also spelled in the Bible as Hatipha.
The Palm Tree: Represents the land that King Solomon ruled
over. Duty: Assists Queen Bathsheba and
The Camel: Represents the land that the Queen of Sheba ruled
presides when she is absent from the
over. meeting. To help in welcoming the Queen
Male Figure: Represents Tamrin, the leader of the trade of Sheba and to act on her behalf.
caravans. Stationed in the West.

OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES Ancestor of Judith, Son of Elikah, father

Ozie!:
of Joseph (Judith 8:1) (Exodus 6:18, 22).
Another form of the Old Testament name,
Queen Bathsheba: Daughter of Elam, wife of Uriah, the Uzziel (Leviticus 10:4; I Chronicles 7:7,
Hittite, Wife of King David, and Mother 15:10, 23:20, 24:24).
of Solomon. (2 Samuel 11:1-3, 27; 1
Kings 1:11; 2 Kings 12:24)

27
26
 Duty: Ensures the Palace is ready to and Dinah. Levi became the founder of
receive visitors. To receive the Queen of Israel's priestly tribe, and Judah became
the South and introduce her to the Most the father of the nation's royal tribe.
Excellent King Solomon. To prepare the (Genesis 29:16-35; Genesis 30:17-21)
members for the Queen of the South
degree. Stationed in the South. Dutv:

Zorah: A town in the low lands of Judah. Financial Leah - to receive and record all finances paid;
Residence ofMenoah and Birthplace as giving all monies to Myra and receiving a
well as burial place of his son, Samson. receipt for the same.
(Joshua 19:41, 48; Judges 13:2, 24, 25,
16:31) Recording Leah - to record the business conducted in the
Meeting, sending a copy to the Presiding
Duty: Ensures the Palace is ready for the Officer(s) and keeping a copy for the
· proper reception of visitors. To assist chronicles of the kingdom. Stationeci_in the
Oziel to receive and introduce the Queen. S011theast.
_Stationed in the North.
Hagar: Hagar bore Abraham his first son,
Ishmael, and thus, became the mother of
the lshmaelites and Arab people from
Mvra: A major seaport city of Lycia. Situated whom came Mohammed the founder of
near the coast of South West Asia Minor. Islam. (Genesis 16:1-16; 21:14-21; 25:12)
The Apostle Paul arrived in Myra from
Caesarea on the way to Italy to change Dutv: To speak as a proxy for the Most
ships. (Acts 27:5) Noble Queen of Sheba. Stationed in the
East - left side of King Solomon.
Duty: To receive from Leah all the gifts
and offerings in the Royal treasury, giving Orpha: The Moabite wife of Chilon, son of Naomi
a receipt for same and depositing them in and Elemelach. (Ruth 1:3-5)
the bank. To pay all outstanding bills on
behalf of the Palace. Stationed in the Duty: To speak as a proxy for the Most
Northeast. Noble Queen of Sheba, that King Solomon
may grant her an audience in his presence
Leah: The older daughter ofLabon (Labon, the and seek his favor. Stationed in the East -
grand-nephew of Abraham). Leah right of King Solomon.
became Jacob's first wife because Labon
deceived Jacob. Leah was the mother of
Reuben, Simon, Levi, Judah, Issachar,
Zebulon, 29
28
 Syene: A city situated at the southern extremity of presence and seek his favor. Stationed in
ancient Egypt - on the east bank of the Nile the East - right of King Solomon, in front.
opposite Elephantine, some 430 miles south
of Cairo. It may have served as a market or Chaplain: To open and close the Palace with Prayer.
trading post (Ezekiel 29:1O; 30:6). The Stationed in the East - left of Myra, in
tower of Syene. front.

Duty: To speak as a proxy for the Most Warder: To ensure that there are no intrusions
Noble Queen of Sheba, so that King during the opening and closing of Palace
Solomon may grant her an audience in his as well as during the conferring of the
presence and seek his favor. Stationed in degree. Stationed inside the door.
the West - right of Hattipha in front.
Sentinel: To protect the Palace against intrusions of
Tharah: Son ofNahor and father of Abraham, unqualified persons. Stationed outside the
Nabor, and Haron. Tharah lived in Ur of door.
the Chaldeans and died at 205, (Genesis
11:27; 22:20-24; 25:1-4). Also another Marshal: To keep order inside the Palace and enforce
Biblical name for Terah, Tarah and the rules of the Palace. Stationed in the East
Terach. A place where the children of - right of Leah, in front.
Israel pitched. (Numbers 33:27-28).
Organist: To furnish the music played/sung in the
Duty: To speak as a proxy for the Most Palace. Stationed at the Piano/Organ.
Noble Queen of Sheba, so that King
Solomon may grant her an audience in his
presence and seek his favor. Stationed in UNIFORM
the West - left of Hattipha, in front. Master Mason (King Solomon): White Suit, Green Shirt, White
Tie, white socks and shoes, white Kuffi, and King Solomon
lilJg}1: One of the descendants of the tribe of regalia or Green dashiki, white pants, or Master Masson uniform.
Benjamite who lived in Jerusalem. Also, King Solomon Collar: Queen of the South and King Solomon
the name of the valley where David killed emblem on each side of the collar. If Patron, the Eastern Star
Goliath. (1 Chronicles 9:3-8; 1 Samuel and King Solomon's emblem is on the collar.
17:2; 19). Another name for Elah. The 2nd
King of a divided Israel. (I Kings 16:6-14). Eastern Star (Princess): White Long Dress with Long-length
sleeves. Members: White Satan Collar or Sash and Crown. White
Duty: To speak as proxy for the Most Stockings, White Shoes. White gloves are optional and jewelry
Noble Queen of Sheba, so that King in good taste.
Solomon may grant her an audience in his

30 31
 Marching In for the King Solomons in a Joint Meeting Ozie! and Zorah lead the officers towards the east. Ozie! and
Zorah go to the east and turn facing west and the officers turn
All Officers are already lined up in the back with Ozie!. (Zorah towards their stations. As Ozie! and Zorah march back to their
is the only officer inside the council). stations, the officers walk in front of their stations. When Ozie/
and Zorah turn at their stations, then all the officers take their
King Solomon (Stationed in the East) will stand and calls the stations. After officers take their stations, the King Solomon
council to order with (*) (One gavel raps). seats the Council(*) (One gavel rap).

King Solomon: King Solomons, please place the crowns. King Solomon will continue with the ritual opening on page 8

The King Solomons with the crowns will march in and place the
crowns in the seats of following stations. (Queen Bathsheba, Marching In for the King Solomons for a Council Meeting
Financial Leah, Recording Leah, Hagar, and Orpha)
All Officers are already lined up in the back with Ozie!. (Zorah
(Note: King Solomons can read these parts, but cannot sit on is the only officer inside the council).
these stations.)
King Solomon (Stationed in the East) will stand and calls the
After placing the crowns, the King Solomons will go to their seat council to order with(*) (One gavel raps).
on the side and remain standing until the King Solomon seats the
Council. King Solomon: King Solomons, please place the crowns.

King Solomon: Zorah, please go out and escort the officers in. The King Solomons with the crowns will march in and place the
crowns in the seats of following stations. (Queen Bathsheba,
Zorah goes out, squaring corners in front of Myra. Ozie! and Hagar, and Orpha)
Zorah lead the officers in line to the back of Hattipha 's station.
(Note: King Solomons can read these parts, but cannot sit on
these stations.)
Right Side (of King Solomon) (Left Side (of King Solomon)
Zorah Oziel Go to a seat on the side and remain standing until the King
Myra Marshal Solomon seats the Council.
Chaplain Syene
Ellah Warder King Solomon: Zorah, please go out and escort the officers in.
Tharah Sentinel
Hattipha Zorah goes out, squaring corners in front of Myra. Ozie! and
Zorah lead the officers in line to the back of Hattipha 's station.

King Solomon: Will all officers take their stations.

32 33
Right Side (of King Solomon) DIAGRAM OF THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH PALACE
Zorah (Left Side (of King
Myra Solomon) Oziel EAST
Financial Secretary
Chaplain Recording Secretary Queen King
Bathsheba Solomon
Ellah Marshal

8
Tharah Syene Financial Recording
Hattipha Warder
Leah Leah

Sentinel

Chaplain I Marshal I
King Solomon: Will all officers take their stations.

Ozie! and Zorah lead the officers towards the east. Ozie! and
Zorah go to the east and turn facing west and the officers turn
towards their stations. As Ozie! and Zorah march back to
their stations, the officers walk in front their stations. When
L
Orpha I Ellah
6
Ozie! and Zorah turn at their stations, then all the officers
take their stations. After officers take their stations, the King
Solomon seats the Council(*) (One gavel rap).
rn t rn
King Solomon will continue with the ritual opening on page 8.

Tharah
8
Hattipha

Warder(inside) Organist

Sentinel (outside)
WEST

Diagram 1
35
34
 DIAGRAM OF THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTHPALACE DIAGRAM OF THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH PALACE
CONFERRING OF THE DEGREE OPENINGOF THE CO UNCIL FOR KING SOLOMON'S
COUNCIL
EAST
EAST
Queen
Bathsheba King
Solomon

6
Queen King
Bathsheba
Financia Recording Solomon
';tf
l Leah Leah

6 Financial
Leah
Recording
Leah

Chaplain Marshal
Chaplai Marshal
n

Orpha Ellah
a '

rn; I a
'\

I Ellah
J Orpha

rn I I I 0
z

I
e
I
CANDIDATES Queenof Sheba

6 G a G
Hattipha

Warder (inside) Organist

Organist
Sentinel (outside)
WEST WEST
\...... = KS(s) can speakthese parts, but cannot sit on these stations.
Warder (inside) Sentinel
Diagram 2
(outside) I) ia_gram 3
36
37
 DIAGRAM OF THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH PALACE
OPENING OF THE COUNCIL CONVERTlNG TO
FlNANCJAL & RECORDlNG SECRETARJES

EAST

Queen King
Bathsheba Solomon

a Financial
Secrctarv I Reco rding
Sccrctarv

I
I Chaplain
--
I I Marshal

- ·
Orpha I Ellah I 6
rn rn
6 G
r--Ha-tt:1pha

Warder (inside)
Organist
Sentinel (outside)
WEST

KS(s) may NOW sit at the stations of the Fin. & Rec. Secretaries.
,..,..., +' = KS(s) can speak these parts, but cannot sit on these stations.
Diagram 4

38
 .0

- --
C:

2
-- --
-- -
z 2

;::
- ----
:;..

3:
-
z
C:

-
> 2
r z -
-- >-
,

-
'--
2

--
..
, >

-
--