Rite of Memphis-Misraim

The Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis-Misraïm is a masonic rite combining esoteric spirituality with humanitarian ideals. Created in Naples in September 1881, it emerged from the fusion of two distinct masonic systems: the Rite of Misraïm, established in Venice in the late 18th century and brought to France in 1814 by the Bédarride brothers, and the Rite of Memphis, founded by Jacques-Étienne Marconis de Nègre in 1838. The rite is commonly known as "Egyptian Freemasonry" due to its extensive use of hermetic philosophy and Ancient Egyptian symbolism in its degree system and rituals.

Initially led by Giuseppe Garibaldi, the military leader of Italian unification, as its first Grand Hierophant, the rite developed an international presence under subsequent leaders including John Yarker (1902–1913) and Theodor Reuss (1913–1923). While centralized international governance ceased after Reuss's death, national organizations continued independently, particularly in France. There, under successive Grand Masters including Jean Bricaud, Constant Chevillon, and notably Robert Ambelain – who significantly reformed its rituals in 1960 – the rite maintained and developed its distinctive tradition.

The rite is characterized by an elaborate degree system historically ranging from 90 to 99 degrees, though many of these are honorary. It emphasizes both esoteric study and social progress, combining spiritual development through hermetic and kabbalistic teachings with humanitarian ideals. Through various schisms and reorganizations, the rite maintains active lodges in several countries today under different obediences, including the Grand Orient de France since 1862.