Scottish Rite degrees are in no way higher than the degrees of the Symbolic lodges. The work of the Scottish Rite serves to elaborate on and amplify that of the Symbolic lodge. The Scottish Rite degrees are lessons taught through allegory in the form of plays. The lessons are taken from Biblical as well as more modern historical events. Cast members use costumes and makeup to look like the characters who they represent.
Candidates learn the lessons by observing the presentation.
Memorization of material presented is not required. The Scottish Rite is open to all Master Masons in good standing. The 33 is conferred annually, at the meeting of the Supreme Council, upon a select number of 32 Scottish Rite Masons who have contributed outstanding service to Freemasonry or Scottish Rite or who have exemplified, in their daily lives, the true meaning of the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God. A recipient must be at least 33 years of age and may not apply for the degree. Some individual Valleys do not contain all four parts.