What is a Masonic Monitor?
The Monitor, or Manual, published by most Grand Lodges in some form, is usually a pocket size volume which contains the exoteric or written work, as distinct from the esoteric, or secret, or “mouth to ear” work or ritual. It is curious and interesting that what is exoteric in one Grand Lodge is sometimes esoteric in another, but no Monitor discloses any secrets to any reader. Monitors are of more use to officers and others who take parts in the exemplification of degrees than to lodge members who do not. Some Monitors contain also explanations of various parts of Freemasonry and a few are comprehensive in their coverage of the subject.
