What Is 33rd Degree

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 33rd Degree is the highest honorary rank in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, conferred by the Supreme Council upon members for exceptional service, typically after decades of involvement. It was established in 1801 by the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite in the United States.

Key Facts

The 33rd Degree was formally established in 1801 by the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction.
It is not a rank achieved through progression but an honorary title awarded for outstanding service to Freemasonry or society.
Only members of the Scottish Rite who have demonstrated long-term commitment may be nominated for the 33rd Degree.
The Northern and Southern Jurisdictions of the Scottish Rite in the U.S. both confer the 33rd Degree independently.
Notable 33rd Degree recipients include Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman, and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.

Overview

The 33rd Degree is the highest honor within the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, a branch of the broader Masonic fraternity. Unlike the first three degrees of Freemasonry, which are part of the foundational Blue Lodge system, the 33rd Degree is symbolic and ceremonial, recognizing profound dedication to Masonic principles.

It does not signify a higher level of secret knowledge but rather honors individuals who have made significant contributions to Freemasonry, their communities, or public life. The degree is conferred by the Supreme Council and is considered a lifetime distinction rather than a step in a hierarchical ladder.

Established in 1801, the 33rd Degree originated with the founding of the Supreme Council, Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction in Charleston, South Carolina, marking the formal organization of the Rite in the U.S.
It is not earned through regular advancement; instead, candidates are nominated by existing members of the Supreme Council and must demonstrate decades of service to Masonry or society.
The title is honorary, meaning it does not grant additional Masonic authority or access to secret rituals beyond those already known to high-ranking Masons.
Two U.S. jurisdictions confer the degree: the Southern Jurisdiction (15 states) and the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction (15 states), each operating independently but recognizing each other's members.
Membership is by invitation only, and recipients are typically selected for their moral leadership, charitable work, or influence in public service.

How It Works

The process of receiving the 33rd Degree is highly selective and involves formal nomination, investigation, and approval by the Supreme Council. It is not a degree one applies for, nor is it tied to the completion of a curriculum.

Nomination: A candidate must be proposed by at least two members of the Supreme Council, often requiring a detailed record of their Masonic and civic contributions.
Investigation: The Supreme Council conducts a thorough review of the nominee’s Masonic history, character, and public service before voting.
Vote and approval: A majority vote of the Council is required to confer the degree, ensuring only those with exceptional merit are selected.
Ceremonial conferral: The degree is awarded in a formal ceremony, often held at the Council’s biennial meeting, attended by hundreds of Masons.
Lifetime recognition: Once conferred, the title is held for life, and recipients may use the title "Sovereign Grand Inspector General" as an honorific.
No secret rituals: Unlike earlier degrees, the 33rd Degree does not involve oaths or symbolic teachings; it is purely honorary.

Comparison at a Glance

Understanding the 33rd Degree requires distinguishing it from other Masonic degrees and honors. The table below compares key aspects:

Degree	Type	How Attained	Jurisdiction	Time to Attain
3rd Degree (Master Mason)	Foundational	Progressive ritual completion	Blue Lodge	Months to years
32nd Degree	Scottish Rite	Progressive or Capitular advancement	Scottish Rite	Years
33rd Degree	Honorary	Nomination and approval	Supreme Council	Decades (if selected)
Knight Templar (9th & 10th)	Chivalric	Invitation after 32nd	York Rite	Years
Shriner (Nobility)	Fraternal	Must be Master Mason	Shrine	Immediate upon eligibility

The 33rd Degree stands apart because it is not part of a sequential path. While other degrees require structured advancement, the 33rd is a recognition of lifetime achievement, often awarded to individuals over 50 who have already held leadership roles in Masonic bodies.

Why It Matters

The 33rd Degree symbolizes the pinnacle of Masonic service and ethical leadership. Though ceremonial, its influence extends beyond Freemasonry into public life, where recipients often hold positions of authority or moral influence.

Encourages civic responsibility: By honoring those who serve their communities, the degree promotes values like charity, integrity, and leadership.
Strengthens Masonic unity: The global network of 33rd Degree members fosters collaboration among Masonic jurisdictions and charitable initiatives.
Recognizes non-Masonic contributions: Recipients like Martin Luther King Jr. were honored for societal impact, not just Masonic involvement.
Preserves tradition: The rigorous selection process maintains the dignity and historical continuity of the Scottish Rite.
Influences public perception: High-profile recipients help demystify Freemasonry and highlight its philanthropic mission.
Provides role models: 33rd Degree members are expected to exemplify Masonic virtues, inspiring younger members.

While not a secret or mystical rank, the 33rd Degree remains a powerful symbol of dedication to principle, service, and brotherhood within one of the world’s oldest fraternal organizations.