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Master Mason1

Introduction

The Master Mason degree is the crowning moment of your Masonic Journey. It is the culmination of all that has been taught and revealed to the candidate in the two preceding degrees. Many Masonic scholars view Masonry as representing early progressive steps taken towards the perfection of human nature. Human nature can be viewed as divided into three parts: body, mind, and soul. Each degree addresses and instructs one part. The Entered Apprentice, addresses the body. The Fellowcraft, addresses the mind. The Master Mason, addresses the primary issue in masonry and that is how the soul may be brought to perfection.

The whole idea of initiation in three degrees is to portray the process of the making of a man, his growth from infancy to maturity, his qualification and training for his work in the world and the faith and principles that will guide him. Once you have been raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason, theoretically, though there may be other degrees and other titles available to you, you have reached the pinnacle of Masonry. At this point, you have at least symbolically, if not actually, balanced your inner self and have shaped it into the proper relationship with the higher and more spiritual part of yourself. Your physical nature has been purified and developed to a high degree. You have developed stability and sure footing. Your mental faculties have sharpened and your horizons have expanded. Many Masons do not truly understand what being raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason really means. The word Sublime is defined as being exalted or elevated so as to inspire awe and wonder. The true importance of this degree is the portrayal of the removal of everything that keeps us from rising to that state where the soul communes with the heavenly light.

Symbolism of the Third Degree

A candidate for the Third Degree (A Fellowcraft) enters the Lodge in darkness (hoodwinked) as he has not yet been exposed to the light of the Third Degree. However, the difference this time is that he is now in a state of equilibrium and is prepared to walk on sacred ground. At this point he becomes fully committed to the fraternity and puts all of his faith in the Three Great Lights of Masonry. The candidate is allowed full use of all

1 This Study Guide is a compilation of materials from the Prince Hall Masonic Study Guide and the Master Mason Study Guide published on the California Grand Lodge’s webpage.

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of the Working Tools of Masonry. However, the one tool, exalted above all others from this point on is the one that symbolizes the spreading of Brotherly Love. This tool is the trowel. After the ceremonies in the first section, which seem quite familiar, the candidate now partakes of the central mystery of the Masonic Order. The Lodge represents the Sanctum Santorum or Holy of Holies of King Solomon’s Temple. The candidate participating in this degree is assuming the role of Grand Master Hiram Abiff. As previously stated, this degree is done to forge a link with the inner soul. The symbolism that exists in this degree can be traced back thousands of years and will in all likelihood exist through time immemorial.

Let us look at the word symbol. This word comes from the Greek, meaning to compare. A symbol is an expression of an idea by comparison. Abstract ideas such as some of those in Masonry are often best expressed by comparison with solid objects. A symbol is also a sign and the words sign and symbol are basically the same. All of the symbols in Masonry are the signs that guide us along our journey in our search for Divine Truth.

Emblems are signs and symbols visible to the eye, which stand for something in addition to themselves, and they create in the mind a specific flow of thought. The Square for instance, in all ages has been an emblem of Masonry, but its use has become so common that “to be on the square” has a meaning to people other than Masons.

Allegories are parables. In trying to understand why Masonry is taught in allegory instead of with logical statements of truth in direct form, we must understand that truth has been taught by allegories and parables so that the mind can connect great and fundamental truths by comparison with simple things. Masonry may also be called a philosophy, a science, an art, but it is certainly ancient. Masonry has four principle ideas. They are: Belief in God2

The Legend of Hiram Abiff

, a teaching of immortality, a symbolic idea of building and a seeking after something which was lost.

You must be impressed by the Third Degree, which is appropriately named the Sublime Third Degree of Masonry. The degree itself is the true climax of initiation and the tragedy is the climax of the degree. It is imperative that you know, understand, and

2 Referred to in our opening prayer as”the Great Architect if the Universe”, reflecting, “that religion in which all men agree…conciliating true friendship among persons that might have remained at a perpetual distance.” Charge I, Charges of A Freemason, page 610 , Masonic Constitution.

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appreciate the profoundness of this degrees meaning. You must understand that the Third Degree Drama is a ritualistic drama.

Since the Legend of Hiram Abiff is a ritualistic drama, some say it is a mistake to accept it as actual history. However, there was actually a Hiram Abiff. However, the degree is not historically based on him. The degree is interested primarily in Hiram Abiff that is a symbol of the human soul. Therefore, if you are someone who has been troubled with the thought that some of the events occurring in the Third Degree Drama could not have occurred, you can relax. The Third Degree Drama does not mean that everything actually happened in a true historical sense. It is actually a symbol of what is happening in the life of every man. But we must never treat the Third Degree Drama as a mock tragedy or a serio-comedy. The Exemplification of this drama is as sincere and solemn as a prayer before the Altar.

The Historical Hiram Abiff that is recorded in the Bible was a skilled artificer and the son of a widow of the Tribe of Naphtali. The earlier accounts of Hiram are recorded in I Kings 7:13-14. His coming to work on the temple at Jerusalem is mentioned in a letter written the King Solomon by Hiram, the King of Tyre, and recorded in II Chronicles 2:13-14. The word Abiff is variously translated, but can mean “his father,” and the name is often explained as “Hiram, my father.” In a certain sense, he was regarded as the father of the workmen on the temple. His role in the Hiramic legend of Masonic tradition, however, is far more than simply that of a skilled architect.

According to many thinkers, the three strikes to our Grand Master’s body symbolize the same vices that combined together to slay Christ. Namely, the corruption of the church, the oppression of the state, and the ignorance of the mob. Whether or not the blows are indeed symbolic of the same social vices that had combined to take the earthly life of Christ is a matter of opinion, but what is clear is that the ruffians had not been able to “subdue their passions” and were thus driven by them to commit the terrible act. Because the Fellowcrafts allowed themselves to be governed by their passions, they murdered the qualities of a master within themselves. It is for us, therefore, to learn to subdue out passions so that the master within each of us may be raised. In this sense, one of the lessons of the legend of Hiram Abiff is that of undying fidelity to the highest ideals and the ultimately victorious mature of such convictions. Masonic tradition informs us that the master’s murder leads to the loss of the word, leaving it to be discovered in future ages. This may suggest that mankind is yet to receive its salvation as a whole, while at the same time revealing the path to individual enlightenment within the allegory of the legend. However one may wish to interpret the Hiramic legend, it is clear that the death

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and raising of Hiram presents some kind of teaching on rebirth. It only follows then that the doctrine of rebirth is something every dedicated Mason should become familiar

Before proceeding to rebirth, it may be necessary to understand what causes the death in the first place. It appears that all the violent deaths – Of Osiris, of Christ, of Hiram – have something in common. They symbolize vice, ignorance and chaos, inevitably slaying the pure self and thereby making rebirth necessary for salvation. These legends reveal the nature of our circumstances and enlighten us to the trials that we must overcome. Only through the death of one’s imperfect self, the leaving behind of the old, and acceptance of transcendent truth, can one truly be reborn into a new self, no longer tainted by the sins of one’s past. In a certain sense, and depending on one’s perspective or religious background, rebirth or regeneration is a process that is constantly occurring. With such understanding, it is up to the initiate to ensure that he is improving himself on a daily basis by carefully watching and analyzing his behavior and motives.

Hiram Abiff is the symbol of the human soul, yours, and mine. The work that he was supposed to supervise is the symbol of the work that you and I have in the supervision, organization, and direction of our daily lives, from birth, until death. The enemies or ruffians that he met are nothing more than the symbols of those lusts and passions within our own hearts and in the hearts of others. His death is the same death that happens to every man who becomes a victim f those same enemies.

The Wages of a Master Mason

In a book called “The Master Masons” it says, Our Operative Masonic brothers performed manual labor and received wages which contributed to their physical welfare. These wages as previously mentioned were corn, wine, and oil. The wages of a Speculative mason must come from within, as he is concerned with his moral rather than the physical labor. These are wages not expressed in dollars. The intangibles of love, friendship, respect, opportunity, happiness, and association or camaraderie are the wages of a Master Mason. These wages are earned. They are not given and not everyone earns them. That is why the Senior Warden, in the opening of the Lodge says, “to pay the Craft their wages, if any be do…”

Traveling in Foreign Countries

The goal of our ancient operative brothers was to become Master Masons, so that they might possess those secrets which would enable them to practice the art of the builder, no matter where they might travel, even in foreign countries. The term foreign countries is used symbolically in Speculative Masonry. It is not meant to refer to a specific

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geographical location. Masonry itself is a foreign country to every new Mason. In order to fully appreciate and enjoy the privileges of membership, he must become familiar with its territory. Once raised, many Masons continue their journey into the inner recesses of the Craft. This is a long and never-ending journey. All of us must continue to search for light and truth wherever it may be found, even in foreign countries. There is also a possibility that foreign countries may be a metaphor for the spiritual world.

The Three Ruffians

There are many symbolic explanations for the appearance of the three ruffians. Their attempts to obtain the secrets of Masonry that they did not deserve and the ultimate consequences of their actions are symbolic of many things. Trying to obtain knowledge of the Divine Truth by some means other than a reward for faithfulness, makes the culprit a thief and in this case, a murderer. This reminds us that rewards must be earned. They are not obtained by violence or devious means. The three ruffians are also symbolic of the enemies that we have within ourselves. Some examples are our own ignorance, passions, and poor attitudes.

High/Low Twelve

In ancient symbolism, the number twelve denoted completion. This came from the twelve signs of the Zodiac. The number twelve denotes completion of a deed and is emblematic of human life. High twelve corresponds with noon, with the sun at its meridian height, while low twelve denotes midnight, the darkest time of night.

The Lion of the Tribe of Judah

Revelation 5:5 reads “Behold the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.” The lion has always been a symbol of might and royalty. It was the sign of the Tribe of Judah, because this was the royal tribe of the Hebrew nation. All Kings of Judah were called the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah” and this was, therefore, one of the titles of King Solomon. In the middle ages, the Lion was a symbol of resurrection. There were tales that when a lion cub was born it lay dead for three days until it was breathed upon by its father. This breath would then bring the cub to life. Representations of roaring lions symbolized the resurrection of the dead. The Lion has always been referred to as the “King of Beasts” and associated with the sun because of his mane. A lion’s likeness has been found on the thrones and palaces of many rulers. Samuel 17:37 uses the expression “paw of the lion,” or the “Lion’s Paw.”

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The Lost Word

The search for “that which was lost” is not necessarily for a particular word. Our search is a symbol for our feeling of loss or self-imposed exile from the Divine. The search is ultimately for Divine Truth, which should be the ultimate goal of all men and Masons. We must always search for truth and never permit prejudice, passions or conflicts of interest hinder our search. We must keep our minds open to receiving truth from any source.

The Grand Masters

The Three Grand Masters mentioned in our rituals concerning the building of the Temple are: Solomon, King of Israel; Hiram, King of Tyre; and Hiram Abiff. Traditionally, Divinity has been thought of in three aspects. The secrets known only to these Three Grand Masters typify Divine Truth, which was known only to God, and was not to be communicated to man until he had completed his own spiritual temple. Once these secrets were attained, a man could reap the rewards of a well-spent life, and travel to the unknown country toward which all of us are traveling.

Signs, Tokens and Words

These provide Modes of Recognition. The term token comes from the word “tacn.” It means a sign, presage, type or representation that points something out. This can also be traced back to the word “taecan” which means to teach, show, or instruct. The term token is used often in the Bible to signify a sign or memorial of something past, some covenant made or some promise given. Thus God said to Noah of the rainbow, “it shall be for a token between me and the earth”; and to Abraham he said of the circumcision, “it shall be a token of the covenant betwixt me and you.” A grip is also called a token, because it is an outward sign of the covenant of friendship between members of the Craft. Each sign, token and word has a symbolic meaning which serves to enrich the mind and improve our lives as Masons.

The Setting Maul

This was a wooden hammer, either round or barrel shaped, with a long wooden handle, usually for two-handed use. One of its major advantages is that the head of the maul is less harsh on the object struck. It was used by Operative Masons to set polished stone firmly into a wall. It is basically the same thing as a mallet, though a mallet is usually lighter in weight. It is a symbol of destruction from prehistoric times and is shown many

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times in mythology. One of the best known is that of Thor, the God of Thunder, who is shown as a powerful man with a mighty hammer.

Emblems

In The Three Pillars we have the Three Great Supports of Masonry—wisdom, strength, and beauty3

The Book of Constitutions guarded by The Tyler’s Sword is the emblem of law and order, and reminds us that our moral and spiritual character is grounded in law and morality as much as is government and nature. It teaches that no man can live a satisfactory life who lives lawlessly. The Sword Pointing to a Naked Heart symbolizes that one of the most rigorous of these laws is justice, and that if a man be unjust in his heart, the inevitable results of injustice will find him out.

. The Three Steps remind us of how youth, manhood, and old age are each an entity in itself, each possessing its own duties and problems, and each calling for its own philosophy. The pot of incense teaches that to be pure and blameless in our inner lives is more acceptable to God than anything else, because that which a man really is, is of vastly greater importance than that which he appears to be. It is also a symbol of prayer and meditation. The beehive recommends the virtue of industry and teaches us that we should never rest while our fellow creatures are in need of assistance. Bees have often been regarded as symbols of messengers from the heavens.

The All Seeing Eye shows that we live and move and have our being in God; that we are constantly in His presence, wherever or whatever we are doing. The single Eye is found in many countries from Egypt to India: The Eye of Horus, the Eye of Shiva, and so on. The Anchor and Ark represent the sense of security and stability of a life grounded in truth and faith, without which sense there can be no happiness.

In the Hourglass, we have the emblem of the fleeting quality of life. The Scythe reminds us that the passing of time will end our lives as well as our work, and if ever we are to become what we ought to be, we must be faithful, work diligently, and not delay. // //

3 Symbols expressed in groups of three such as this —called triads—can be found in many cultures, such as the Gothic, Greek, Persians, and Hindus. Each of these often express a form of reasoning entailing “thesis, antithesis, and synthesis.”

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47th Problem of Euclid4

The 47th Proposition of Euclid’s 1st Book of the Elements is also known as the Pythagorean Theorem. “’A’ Squared + ‘B’ Squared = ‘C’ Squared.” A room is squared by using the ratio of the numbers 3, 4 and 5. 3 squared plus 4 squared equals 5 squared. What happens is a builder will take a point and mark it 3 feet down one wall from a selected corner of the room. That is A. He then takes another point four feet from the same corner down the other wall. That is B. You then measure the distance between A & B, the distance from A to B should be exactly 5 feet. If that is the case, the corner is an exact right angle and the room is squared.

How many remember this? You now stand in the Northeast corner as the youngest Entered Apprentice, upright man and a Mason and I give it to you strictly in charge to ever walk and act as such. Now an Entered Apprentice reaches the NE corner 3 times, a Fellow Craft 4 times and a Master Mason 5 times. During circumambulation, any Mason, after being raised has reproduced by circumambulation the numbers 3, 4 and 5 in the most significant corner of the Lodge, which is the Northeast. They have just symbolically squared the Lodge.

The Rite of Destitution

At some point, every man is asked for a token of a certain kind to be laid upon the archives of the Lodge as a memorial of his initiation. Of course, if he is duly and truly prepared, he is unable to comply with this request. It is at this point, that just for a moment, a man realizes what it is like for a man to be actually destitute. For that specific moment he may feel bewildered and humiliated as he is deprived of the necessity of life. But then suddenly, the lesson of the Golden Rule is taught. That duty is the duty of man to his fellow man in dire need. This portion of the ritual works because the initiate is actually put into the place of the man who asks his aid, making his duty even more real and vivid. Masons are under all obligations of humanity, the most primary being to succor their fellow men when they are in a desperate situation.

It should be noted that the destitute that we refer to are a specific class of people. They should not be confused with those who are poverty stricken by reason of criminal tendencies or inherent laziness. That is another problem, of which we as Masons should

4 A graphic representation of this problem appears prominently on the Frontispiece of “Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723”, as a tribute to the importance of “scientific knowledge” among the basic principles upon which Speculative Freemasonry was founded.

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at some point address. The needy that we aid are all “poor, distressed, worthy Master Masons, their widows and orphans.” That is those who are destitute through no fault of their own. These are those who through unfortunate circumstance, accident, disease or disaster become unable, however willing and eager to meet their obligation. These members of the Craft are deserving of charity in the true Masonic sense. This extends beyond the form of financial relief. It includes the form of companionship, sympathy and love. No man ought to be allowed to become a Mason unless he is equal to its demands, financially as well as mentally and morally, able to pay its fees and dues and to do his part in the work of relief. Yet no man is exempt from the vicissitudes and tragedies of human life. Life may at any time become a ruffian and strike us a devastating blow. It is to this experience that the Rite of Destitution speaks.

The Trowel

The Trowel is a tool of Operative Masonry, which was adopted by Speculative Masons as the working tool or symbol of the Master Mason or Third Degree. It was considered to be the appropriate tool of a Master Mason because having examined the work for correctness and that it is true and trusty, it is secured permanently in place by spreading cement with the trowel. The primary symbolism of the Trowel is that we use it to spread the cement of affection and kindness which unites all members of the Masonic family.

The Rights, Privileges and Responsibilities of a Master Mason

A Master Mason has several primary rights. They are Masonic Relief, Masonic Visitation, and Masonic Burial.

Relief

Any Master Mason may apply for relief. In every case, a determination of the worthiness of the request must be made. Relief is a voluntary function of the Lodge, the Grand Lodge and of individuals. If a Lodge’s financial condition will not allow it to help, an application may be made to the Grand Lodge. If a Brother was a member in good standing, his widow and/or orphan may also be eligible.

Visitation

Visitation to other Lodges is one of the greatest privileges of a Master Mason. Before you can sit another Lodge, you must prove yourself to be a Mason in good standing. If you can provide this proof and no member of the Lodge objects to your visit you may do so. You should always carry your dues card with you.

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You can gain admission in two ways. You may be vouched for by a Brother who has sat in a Lodge with you. You may be examined by a special committee appointed by the Master of the Lodge. After you pass the examination, the committee vouches for you and you are admitted. The responsibilities are found, in part, in the obligation of an Entered Apprentice Mason. Finally you are reminded that you are to acquire special knowledge introduced in this Degree and seek to apply that knowledge to your duties in life so that you can occupy your place in society with satisfaction and honor.

Master Masons and Their Lodge

The secondary responsibility of a Master Mason is to his Lodge. There is no mandatory attendance requirement, nor is there a penalty for non-attendance, as there once was. However, every Master Mason has an obligation to be loyal to the Lodge that originally gave Masonic Light and all of the benefits that come with being a Mason. This should be an inducement to attend Lodge meetings as often as possible and to join in the fellowship and camaraderie that is such an important part of Masonry. Master Masons also have some financial duties owed to their Lodge. The first is that of mandatory support or dues. The actual dues structure varies throughout the Masonic Jurisdiction. This allows a Mason to assist in taking care of a Lodge’s operating expenses. If a Mason cannot pay his dues, he should inform the Worshipful Master. The Lodge may consider paying the dues for him. The second is that of voluntary contributions to the various Masonic causes. This occurs based upon a Mason’s personal ability to financially assist.

Balloting

Only members in good standing have a right to vote. No member present can be excused from balloting on any petitioner before the lodge. No member will be permitted to retire from the lodge to avoid casting his ballot. The white ball indicates an affirmative, or favorable, ballot, and the black cube indicates a negative, or unfavorable, ballot. If there is no reason to believe otherwise, the report of the investigating committee is usually accepted, and a favorable ballot is cast on a petition for membership.

If there is an objection to an applicant, it should be raised before the ballot is taken. Every Freemason has the right to speak and express any concerns or objections he may have about the applicant. If there is some legitimate reason to indicate why the petitioner is unworthy, for strictly Masonic—not personal—reasons, a black cube may be cast to protect the lodge from an undesirable member. As you approach the ballot box, examine your motives and be sure that the ballot you are about to cast will do justice to the candidate and Freemasonry. The right to secrecy of the ballot is guaranteed by Masonic

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law, and custom allows each member to have full freedom in balloting on petitioners. No brother should disclose how he voted and no brother should inquire into how another brother voted on a particular candidate.

Nonage, Dotage and Fool

In the jurisdiction of California, non-age refers in this degree to one who is not yet 18 years of age. Dotage is a condition associated with old age, and is marked by juvenile desires, loss of memory, and failure of judgment. Being old does not bar someone from seeking membership, but it is required that he be mentally alert and healthy. A fool is a grown man without good sense. Legally, he may be of age, but mentally he is incapable of the kind of understanding required to be successful in Freemasonry.

Examining Visitors

This responsibility belongs to the lodge and is delegated by the Worshipful Master to a committee of Brethren who are to satisfy themselves that the visitor is a Master Mason in good standing in a regular and recognized lodge. The Worshipful Master may call upon any member of the lodge to serve on the examining committee. Kindness and courtesy should be shown to all visitors at all times.

Vouchers on Petitions

Before endorsing the petition of anyone for initiation into the Masonic Order, it is necessary to determine the applicant’s motives for initiation, his expectations, and the quality of his character. A man must be of good moral character and show himself to be capable and desirous of intellectual and philosophical growth. Signing the petition of a man who wishes to become a Freemason is a significant responsibility, and by doing so you are committing to assist him as he grows in Freemasonry.

Investigating Petitioners

This responsibility belongs to every member of the lodge and should not be taken lightly. Serving on an investigating committee should be regarded as a mark of special trust by the Master of your lodge. It is a solemn responsibility. Only those who can be counted on to make a complete and impartial inquiry into the petitioner’s character and determine his worthiness to become a Freemason should be selected.

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Entering or Retiring From an Open Lodge

Courtesy dictates that Freemasons should always arrive before a meeting is scheduled to begin. This also allows sharing of fellowship, meeting any visitors who may be arriving, and so on.

If you arrive after a meeting has begun, you should clothe yourself properly, inform the Tyler, and ask to be admitted. The Tyler will inform the Junior Deacon, who will then request permission from the Master that you be admitted. The Junior Deacon will notify you when it is appropriate to enter and of the degree in which work is taking place. When permitted to enter, proceed west of the altar, give the due guard and sign of the degree, and take a seat.

Retiring from an open lodge is accomplished in much the same way. Move west of the altar, give the appropriate due guard and sign, and then leave.

Deportment While in the Lodge

Your deportment while the lodge is open should be governed by good taste and propriety. You should not engage in private conversations, nor through any other action disrupt the business of the lodge. Discussions in the lodge are always a healthy sign and promote the interest of the lodge, if properly conducted. If you wish to speak, rise and, after being recognized, give the due guard and sign, and then make your remarks. Always address the Worshipful Master, even if you are responding to a direct question from another brother. When finished, you may then be seated. Religion, partisan politics, and any other subject which might disrupt the peace and harmony of the lodge should not be discussed in lodge. Voting on routine matters is usually conducted through a voice ballot.

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Masonic Glossary

Ardor Fiery intensity of feeling.

Admonish To gently and constructively counsel another person.

Allegory A literary style that uses symbols, characters or events to suggestively represent an abstract idea.

Allude A hint. To make a somewhat disguised reference about a person, place or thing.

Archaic Out of use. So extremely old as seeming to belong to an earlier period.

Aspersion An unfavorable or damaging remark.

Barbarous Lacking refinement or culture. Coarse, very cruel, savage.

Benediction A ceremonial prayer requesting divine protection

Beneficent A benefit. Doing or producing good.

Beseech To earnestly ask or request.

Bourne An archaic term for a goal or destination

Candor Candid. The quality of being honest and straightforward in attitude and speech.

Celestial Relating to Heaven or the spirit.

Censure Harsh criticism or disapproval.

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Circumscribe To draw a line or a boundary around.

Circumspection Knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress by being prudent.

Conflagration Fire, especially a large disastrous fire.

Conform The ability to adapt oneself.

Consecrated Solemnly dedicated to or set apart for a high purpose, usually a Holy purpose.

Contrive To come up with (an idea, plan, explanation, theory, or principle) after a mental effort.

Countenance Consent to or give permission.

Cowans Profanes, pretenders, intruders, eavesdroppers. Those seeking to obtain the Masonic words and secrets of Masonry without having been admitted to the fraternity.

Cubit An ancient unit of linear measure, approximately 18” in today’s measure

Delineate To accurately depict a shape. To draw or trace the outline of; sketch out.

Deluge An overwhelming number or amount of an item;..as in a deluge of rain.

Demean To reduce in worth or character.

Deportment A manner of personal conduct or behavior.

Derogatory Implies contempt or disapproval, ...such as a derogatory

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remark.

Diligent Taking care, patience, and perseverance in carrying out tasks.

Discerning Having, revealing, and exercising keen insight and good judgment.

Discordant Conflicting. Not in agreement or harmony.

Discreet Tactful. Good at keeping secrets, or subtle and unobtrusive.

Diurnal Occurring in the daytime. Belonging to the period of daylight. Recurring everyday; having a daily cycle.

Divest To deprive, remove or take away possessions from someone.

Eavesdropper One who stands under the eaves, or near the window or door of a house, to listen; hence, a secret listener.

Ecliptic

Astronomic plane containing the Earth's orbit about the Sun. An imaginary line followed on the earth's surface by the direct ray of the Sun during the year. Solomon's temple, located in Jerusalem, is north of this line.

Edifice A building. Especially a large or impressive one.

Emblematic Serving as a visible symbol for something abstract; e.g.: as a crown is emblematic of royalty.

Emulation To copy. An effort made to imitate another person's actions.

Esoteric Secret or hidden. Masonically, those parts of the ritual or other work that may not be revealed to Non-Masons.

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Esteem To regard with respect and consideration.

Exalted Noble. Elevated in rank, character, or status.

Exhort To make an urgent appeal.

Exoteric Not secret or hidden. Masonically, those parts of the ritual or other work that may be revealed to Non-Masons.

Fallacy A false, erroneous or mistaken idea.

Fervency Feelings of great warmth and intensity.

Firmament The vault or expanse of the heavens; the sky.

Fruition To bear fruit. To fulfill.

Gutteral A term that refers to the throat or to sounds made by the throat.

Holy of Holies Same as Sanctum Sanctorum. It was the innermost room of King Solomon’s Temple. The Ark of the Covenant was placed there and only High Priests were allowed to enter.

Homage Expression of high regard. Showing respect or attesting to the worth or influence of another person.

Immemorial Extending back or existing since beyond the reach of memory, record, or tradition. Example: Time immemorial.

Implore To earnestly call or pray for.

Inclemencies Physical severity or harshness (commonly in respect to the elements or weather); roughness; storminess; rigor; severe

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cold, wind, rain, or snow.

Inculcated To be taught. To implant by repeated statement or admonition; teach persistently and earnestly.

Incumbent Obligatory. A duty to which one is obliged to perform.

Indissoluble Firm. Stable. Incapable of being dissolved, decomposed or destroyed.

Ineffable Not to be spoken because of its sacredness. Unutterable: such as the ineffable name of the Deity.

Insidious Stealthily treacherous or deceitful.

Inundation To overwhelm. To flood.

Invoking

To call on for aid or protection; to invite earnestly or solemnly; to summon; to address in prayer; to solicit or demand by invocation; to implore; as, to invoke the Supreme Being, or to invoke (appeal for) His blessing.

Laudable Deserving commendation; praiseworthy.

Lawful Information

A statement vouching for another Brother. This allows a visitor to visit.

Mental Reservation

A secret intention not to abide by the obligation.

Mercenary Motivated solely by a desire for monetary or material gain.

Meridian The position of the sun at noon.

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Most Worshipful A term meaning most honorable and respectable, reserved for a Grand Master.

Nicety Detail, exactness, or precision.

Obdurate Hard; firm; unbending; inflexible; unyielding; stubborn.

Oppress To impose excessive burdens upon; to overload; hence, to treat with unjust rigor.

Palliate To try to mitigate, lessen, cover for or conceal the gravity of (an offense) by excuses, apologies, etc.

Patronize Regularly attend.

Pervade Permeate, diffuse. To spread through.

Pilasters

An ornamental and structural column that usually projects about a third of its width from the wall to which it is attached and contains a base and a capital on top. A pilaster is part of a wall, whereas a column is freestanding.

Pious Reverence. Having or showing strong religious feelings and devotion toward the Creator.

Precepts A rule or principle prescribing a particular course of action or conduct.

Prone Lying flat. Prostrate.

Prudent

1. Wise in handling practical matters; exercising good judgment or common sense.

2. Careful in regard to one's own interests; provident. 3. Careful about one's conduct; circumspect.

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Prudential Wise. Exercising good judgment and common sense.

Recapitulate Summary. To repeat in a concise form. Short form. Recap.

Rectitude Rightness. Correctness of conduct and principle.

Reformation Improvement. Betterment. Correction of an imperfect state. Reform.

Reprehend Reprimand. Disapprove.

Sanctum Sanctorum The same as the Holy of Holies

Salutary Wholesome. Promoting or conducive to some beneficial purpose. A purpose which deserves a salute.

Seal of Solomon Two equilateral triangles joined to form a six-pointed star. It was also known as the Star of David.

Seraphic

A pure, angelic, and burning love or ardor. A Seraphim is one of a class of celestial beings with 6 wings...some believe they are the first of the nine classes of angels.

They are mentioned in the Old Testament in Isaiah. 6:2, 3, 6, 7. Seraph means "fiery ones", an allusion, it is supposed, to their burning love. They are represented as "standing"..."hovering"?... above the King as He sat upon His throne, ready at once to minister unto Him. Their form appears to have been human, with the addition of their 3 sets of wings.

Shewed Showed. An archaic word meaning to show, display, or exhibit.

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Solicit Request. To petition for something which is desired.

Sublime Ultimate. The greatest or most supreme and elevated degree. Awe-inspiring. Exalted.

Subservient Useful. Serving or acting in a subordinate capacity through a sense of duty. Compliant and obedient to authority because of a deep understanding of the whole.

Subsisted To Exist. To Be.

Sundry Various and Diverse. Many.

Superficies Superficial. Outward appearance. Shallow. Without depth. Residing on a single plane.

Superfluities Excesses. That which is not needed.

Sustenance Nourishment. That which is needed to sustain life.

Symbol Something used to represent a thing or idea. Symbols are used in Masonry to teach abstract moral concepts and principles.

Symmetry Beauty as a result of balance and a harmonious arrangement. Excellence of proportion. Regularity of form or arrangement in terms of like, reciprocal, or corresponding parts.

Synonomous Synonymous. Same. Like. Expressing or implying the same idea.

Tabernacle A place of worship. Shelter. A temporary dwelling place.

Temperate Moderate. Not extreme in behavior.

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Temporal Temporary. For a limited time.

Tenets Principles.

Tessellated Checkered. Pertaining to or like mosaic tiling. The word "tessella" means small square.

Tubal Cain The first known worker in brass and iron, who is described in Genesis 4:22

Unfeigned Real. Sincere. Unfaked.

Unsullied Pure. Honorable. Clean. Untainted.

Venerable Extremely old. Worthy of Respect. Revered.

Vertex The highest point of something. The point of intersection of lines or the point opposite the base of a figure

Vicissitudes Changes. Fluctuations. Variations.

Vouchsafe To promise or agree, condescendingly, because it is in your power, to bestow a special favor. To vouch as safe.

Waft Cause to move to and fro.

Worshipful A term meaning honorable or respectable used as a part of the title of the Master of a Blue Lodge.

Wrought Created. Made.

Zeal With passion. Fervor. Eager and ardent interest in pursuit of something.

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Masonic Etiquette

Masonic Etiquette, for the most part, is merely good manners and respect for your lodge, its members, its Worshipful Master and the convention of Freemasonry, in general.

Unfortunately, Masonic Etiquette ...or Blue Lodge Etiquette, is largely unpublished as well as unspoken, therefore making it more difficult to learn its rules and nuances. You may study ritual work, degree work, floor work and know all Masonry’s glorious history, Masonic symbols, jewels, etc. but there is very little written about how to comport yourself so you do not look foolish or be regarded as disrespectful.

Some are small things, and some are not, but your Lodge conduct is continually on display.

Few Masonic mentors include a list of proper Lodge behavior, as they have learned it, themselves, incident-by-incident, and usually learned by them after their having made an error and being kindly informed by another member as to the correct Masonic etiquette of the situation.

RULES OF MASONIC ETIQUETTE The Worshipful Master has the authority to:

1. Rule any brother out of order on any subject at any time.

2. Decide what can and cannot be discussed. Should a brother believe that the Master is arbitrary, unjust, or unfair or is acting in an illegal manner, he can appeal to the District Deputy Grand Master. If that officer agrees that the appeal is a valid one, he will forward the complaint to the Grand Master.

If, however, that brother insists on speaking after the Master has ruled that he is out of order, he may be committing a Masonic offense.

Courteous brethren accept the requests made by the Master to serve on various committees such as the examination committee, the investigation committee and other duties, as determined by the Lodge’s needs. The following items are not Masonic offenses, They are simply a lack of Masonic Etiquette…or in other words, considered to be “bad form” or bad manners.

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1.) WALKING BETWEEN THE ALTAR AND THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER: Brethren do not pass between the Altar and the East when the lodge is open. Why? As a courtesy to the Master, it is necessary that the three Great Lights which shine their eternal light and wisdom upon the Master to help him govern the lodge should never be in shadow, not even for a millisecond, during the processes of an initiation or degree work.

2. SITTING IN THE EAST:

Brethren do not take a seat in the East without an invitation... even if all other seats are full. Why? While all Brethren within a tiled room are equal to one another, and the officers are servants of the brethren, all lodge officers have worked and studied long and hard for their lodge. It is, therefore, the Master’s prerogative to recognize this devotion and their loyalty by inviting distinguished visitors or a special member whom the Master wishes to honor to sit with him in the East. In other words, if you were in church, synagogue or mosque and the pews were full, would you go up and sit beside the Pastor, Rabbi, or Imam (Muslim Priest)?

3. ALWAYS FULLY DRESSED:

Brethren do not enter their Lodge room either without their apron nor while putting on that apron…not even the tying of the tying of its strings.

Why? In respect to the formalities of their Lodge, officers expect that the Brethren will have the courtesy to enter it fully dressed and ready for the labor. They should not have to wait for a member to be fully "dressed", even just tying or adjusting their apron, to salute that member. It is expected that you will be properly and entirely dressed when you pass by the Tyler and enter your lodge room.

4. STAND WHEN YOU SPEAK:

No man sits while speaking in the lodge room, no matter if he addresses an officer or another brother.

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Why? All lodge activity is based on each man in the lodge as being a servant of the Brethren. This includes the Worshipful Master and his officers.

While the man, himself, who has been elected Worshipful Master does not gain any special honor, personally, as the Worshipful Master, it is to the Worshipful Master as the Master of the Lodge that a member stands to address. It is simply a form of respect ...and no different from attending a shareholder’s meeting or a City Council meeting. It is expected that if you wish to address the audience, you will stand so all may see who is speaking. 5. TALKING:

"Side" talk while a degree is being conferred is considered bad manners. Why? The lodge room is a Temple of the Great Architect of the Universe. The brethren within are working to make the best ashlars (stones) for His spiritual temple. Just as it is impolite to talk in a church, synagogue or mosque service, so it is improper to distract the officers, the workers in the degree or the candidate.

Talking without asking to do so shows irreverence for the proceedings. God’s house is not for social conversation within the lodge room. It is for worship and learning the lesson of the day which is being taught. Unless you have requested of the Master to speak, silence is the rule. This also means no whispering.

6. SPEAKING:

If you wish to offer a predetermined motion or matter for discussion, advise the Master beforehand. Why? Advising the Master before the meeting that you intend to bring up a specific motion or a matter for discussion is an important courtesy. You may, indeed, do it without advising him in advance, but the Master may have plans of his own for that meeting, for which your proposed motion or discussion may not easily fit into the allotted time frame.

As a courtesy to him, his work, and his dedication to the members, it is best to ask him privately, beforehand, if he will be able to recognize you to speak your purpose. This saves "face" for both of you. You will not publicly be refused and he will not have to

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seem disagreeable or arrogant in his refusal of your motion. If you wish to speak, (see number 6.), above.

7. OBEY THE GAVEL:

You must immediately obey the gavel!

Why? Failure to immediately obey the gavel is a GRAVE DISCOURTESY and VERY poor Masonic Etiquette. The Master is all-powerful in the lodge and his word is final. He can put or refuse to put any motion. He can rule any brother out of order on any subject at any time. He can say what he will, and what he will not, permit to be discussed. Brethren who think him unfair, arbitrary, unjust, or acting illegally have redress.

The Grand Lodge can be appealed to on any such matter. However, in the lodge, the Master’s gavel denotes his emblem of authority, is supreme. When a brother is rapped down, he should obey at once, without any further discussion. It is VERY bad manners to do otherwise. In fact, it is perilously close to the line between bad manners and a Masonic offense. Masonic etiquette decries anyone who does not obey the gavel.

8. TURNING YOUR BACK:

Never turn one’s back on the Master to address the lodge without first receiving permission from the Master to speak.

Why? Any debates that are in motion must be conducted using proper Masonic etiquette. One always stands to order when addressing the chair. Customs differ in various jurisdictions as to the method of salute, however some salute should always be given when addressing the Master. Two brethren, both on their feet, simultaneously arguing a motion, who are facing each other and ignoring the Master is unacceptable.

9. SALUTE:

Some lodges (not all) offer salutes to the Master. Each of the brethren will salute the Master when they enter and when they leave their Masonic Mother Lodge room or any other Masonic lodge room. Some lodges offer salutes to the Senior Warden. Why? The Masonic etiquette of saluting the Master is your renewed pledge of fealty and service. It is your public display of decorum before all other brothers of your obligation.

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It shows your courteous respect for all that the Master stands for and shows that you acknowledge his authority.

Salutes should reflect your heart-felt respect for all that for which he stands. The salute to the Master is your pledge of honor and service, your publicly shown obligation. A lazy, sloppy or improper salute is to be Masonically impolite and, thus, to exhibit poor Masonic etiquette.

10. BALLOTING:

Do not enter or leave the lodge room during a ballot.

Why? It is discourteous to leave the lodge room during a speech, during a degree, etc. There are several natural periods, such as at the end of one section and before the next begins, or when the Master puts the lodge at ease until the sound of the gavel. Then, and only then, you may leave the lodge without being considered rude. It is Masonic Etiquette that all brethren are expected to vote when requested to do so.

Failure to cast your ballot not only results in your failure to share in your duties, but also is in Direct disobedience of the Master’s request.

11. VOTING IS MANDATORY:

When an issue is put to a vote, all brethren should vote.

Why? A brother who does not vote is discourteous because he skews the ballot. He becomes the weak link in a strong chain. No matter what the reason of his non-vote, he injures the lodge’s ballot, its value, and its secrecy. Failure to vote can injure a lodge’s feeling of brotherhood, and by that injury, can injure the Masonic fraternity. No matter what reason you may privately hold about voting, it is poor Masonic Etiquette to fail to vote when requested to do so by the Master.

12. SHOULDERING THE WORK:

It is good Masonic Etiquette to accept a request made in the name of the lodge if it is within your abilities.

Why? A lodge is a working "beehive of industry". A request made of you from your lodge acknowledges that the lodge trusts you to competently fulfill such a request based upon your knowledge.

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13. EXHIBIT GOOD POSTURE:

Why? Good posture is necessary while within the Lodge room. Lounging, leaning, and slovenly attitudes should be avoided. Poor posture is considered poor Masonic etiquette.

14. USE PROPER MASONIC NAMES:

Why? It is common courtesy to be accurate in speaking a brother’s name, so it is proper Masonic etiquette to address officers, members, and visitors by their correct Masonic titles and addresses.

15. ENTERING LODGE AFTER THE MEETING HAS BEGUN:

If a brother should enter the Lodge after the opening ceremony is under way, he should go to the Altar to salute the Master. If he must leave before the meeting is over, the correct Masonic etiquette of his departure is that he should salute the Presiding Master at the Altar before he departs. The salute should always be given properly and not in a careless or perfunctory manner.

16. TURN CELL PHONES OFF:

All cell phones should be turned off before entering the lodge room so as not to disrupt the proceedings.

Masonic Etiquette Summary: Masonic etiquette is simply the rules of good manners, which make lodge meetings pleasant for everyone.

The position of Worshipful Master in the East occupies the most exalted position within the lodge. A lodge which does not honor its Master, no matter how they personally feel about the man, himself, lacks Masonic courtesy. The honor conveyed by the brethren in electing him, ...in other words, the historical traditions and the men who have gone before you must be given the utmost respect, if the traditions of the Fraternity are to be observed and proper Masonic etiquette is to be maintained. Masonic etiquette comprises lodge courtesies and properties.

Good manners imply observance of the formal requirements governing man's behavior in polite society and a sense of what is appropriate for a person of good breeding with high morals and good taste.

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The spirit of brotherly love and affection, by which we are bound together, will be exemplified in our conduct, our carriage and our behavior at all times.

Research Organizations

• Join the Phylaxis Society

• Join the Golden State Prince Hall Research Lodge of our Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge

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Recommended Reading

Title Author Published Subject

HOLY BIBLE There are several versions

Masonic Ritual MWPHGL California Ronald Robinson, GM 1999 Ritual

Masonic Constitution MWPHGL CA Herby Price, Jr. 2005 History

Early Masonic Catechisms Harry Carr 1963 reprint of

Freemasonry Its Hidden Meaning George H. Steinmetz 1948 Analysis

Lester's Look to the East Ralph P. Lester 1927 Ritual

Duncan's Ritual Malcolm C. Duncan 3rd Ed Ritual

William Preston and His Work Colin Dyer 1987 Biography

The Newly-Made Mason H.L. Haywood 1973 Introduction

The Craft and Its Symbols Allen E. Roberts 1974 Introduction

Inside Prince Hall David Gray 2003 Prince Hall

Middle Class Blacks in White Society William A Muraskin 1975 Prince Hall

Mackey's Jurisprudence Robert I. Clegg 1980 Masonic law

Macoy's Worshipful Master's Assist. Allen E. Roberts 1980 Reference

Living the Enlightenment Margaret C. Jacob 1991 History

Introduction to Freemasonry 3 Vol. Carl H. Clardy 1931 Symbolic Masonry

Out of the Shadows Roundtree & Bessel 2006 Recognition

The Covenant with Black America Tavis Smiley 2006 Social Justice

A Gentleman of Color: The Life of

James Forten Julie Winch 2002 History

Great Black Men of Masonry Joseph M.A. Cox 1982 Reference