Albert Pike, born on December 29, 1809, in Boston, Massachusetts, was a prominent figure in the history of Freemasonry and an influential writer. He is best known for his contributions to Masonic philosophy and his involvement in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.

Pike began his career as a lawyer and journalist, but his interest in Freemasonry led him to devote a significant portion of his life to its study and promotion. He became a member of the Freemasons and rose to prominence within the organization, eventually serving as the Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite’s Southern Jurisdiction in the United States.

Pike’s writings on Freemasonry and philosophy had a lasting impact on the fraternity. His most notable work is “Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry,” first published in 1871. This book explores various philosophical and symbolic aspects of Freemasonry, delving into its rituals, teachings, and moral principles. It continues to be regarded as a significant text within Masonic literature.

Here are a few quotes attributed to Albert Pike:

1. “What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.”
2. “Doubt, the essential preliminary of all improvement and discovery, must accompany the stages of man’s onward progress.”
3. “The chains of habit are too weak to be felt until they are too strong to be broken.”
4. “A man should live with his superiors as he does with his fire; not too near, lest he burn; nor too far off, lest he freeze.”
5. “He who endeavors to serve, to benefit, and improve the world is like a swimmer, who struggles against a powerful current, in a river lashed into angry waves.”

While Pike’s most significant work is “Morals and Dogma,” here are five notable books associated with him:

1. “Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry” – Pike’s magnum opus, exploring the philosophy, symbolism, and teachings of Freemasonry.
2. “Esoterika: The Symbolism of the Blue Degrees of Freemasonry” – A book that provides an in-depth analysis of the symbolism found within the first three degrees of Freemasonry.
3. “Lectures of the Arya” – A collection of lectures on philosophical and esoteric subjects, covering a range of topics including morality, spirituality, and the nature of reality.
4. “The Book of the Words” – A compilation of Pike’s lectures and essays on various topics related to Freemasonry, symbolism, and philosophy.
5. “Legenda and Readings of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry” – A collection of historical and allegorical readings used in Scottish Rite Freemasonry ceremonies, with commentary by Pike.

These books reflect Pike’s dedication to Freemasonry, his philosophical insights, and his desire to delve into the symbolic and moral aspects of the fraternity.