Appearance Quote by Albert Mackey
“The Kassideans or Assideans...arose either during the Captivity or soon after the restoration...The Essenians were, however, undoubtedly connected with the Temple (of Solomon), as their origin is derived by the learned Scalier, with every appearance of truth, from the Kassideans, a fraternity of Jewish devotees, who, in the language of Laurie, had associated together as 'Knights of the Temple of Jerusalem.'...From the Essenians Pythagoras derived much, if not all, of the knowledge and the ceremonies with which he clothed the esoteric school of his philosophy.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Cyclopaedia of Freemasonry, 1872
The passage links early Jewish sects, especially the Essenians, to later philosophical and esoteric traditions, suggesting a lineage of secret knowledge.
In simple terms: Ancient Jewish groups influenced later secret teachings.
Key Takeaway
Explore historical roots of esoteric ideas.
Themes
history
esotericism
philosophy
religion
culture
Mood
intrigued
thoughtful
Type
historical
analytical
scholarly
When to use this quote
- academic research
- comparative religion
- philosophical study
- cultural heritage
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Mysticism
fraternity
knowledge transmission
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports these historical links?
- How do modern interpretations affect our view of ancient sects?
A Different Perspective
The exact connections are debated and may rely on speculative links.
