So . . . what exactly is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the oldest fraternal organizations in the world. It unites men of good character who, though of different religious, ethnic or social backgrounds, share a belief in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of mankind. Freemasonry offers a system or blueprint for the good man to further improve his character and actions through its system of degrees, symbols, and fellowship opportunities.
When did it start?
Modern Freemasonry was established in England in 1717, although its exact origins are lost in the unrecorded history of medieval times. Its roots are found in guilds of stonemasons that, from the end of the 13th century, regulated the qualifications of stonemasons. As a stonemason grew in his craft, he was entered into the appropriate rank: apprentice, journeyman (now called Fellow Craft) and master mason.
At each stage, the craftsman was entrusted with the secrets of each level, which include passwords and grips (or handshake) made known to him only upon due inspection of necessary proficiency by a master of the craft. This way, as stonemasons migrated across Europe to the next job, each man was assured proper pay and privilege commensurate with his skill level, and clients were assured of the quality of work. Today, Freemasonry shares this same system of secrets, ritual and growth, though the work has shifted from building edifices to building oneself in good character.
Currently, according to membership records across the globe, there are currently just over 6 million Masons worldwide.
What are the values of Freemasonry?
The values of Freemasonry are Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.
Brotherly Love: Caring for each other and our Communities.
Relief: Help and Assist those you find in life who are under distress or duress.
Truth: Using Knowledge and Understanding to Improve Ourselves, Our Families and Our Communities.
As Freemasons, we recognize that knowledge gained should be knowledge shared. That investing our time, knowledge and experience through mentoring and coaching is one of the better ways to live our Masonic principles. In our modern, fast-moving and often isolating society, it is more important than ever that Masons endeavor to seek and share these basic truths and put them into action through a life that informs, influences and inspires others.
What does it mean to become a Mason?
Throughout history, Freemasonry has provided a way for men throughout the world to live their lives to their fullest potential in association with other like minded men. This focus on the social, moral and intellectual development and well being of the individual man is unique among modern organizations. For centuries, the Masonic Lodge has been the launchpad for Masonic education, learning the values and tools required for self-improvement, enlightenment, and living a greater purpose. Through ritual, discussions and working in the community, Masons work on becoming better versions of themselves, and as importantly, helping brother Masons do the same.
The Degrees of Freemasonry
1st Degree: Entered Apprentice
This is a candidate’s first experience with the ceremonies of the Fraternity, and like all Masonic ceremonies, it is a solemn and meaningful event. Once a candidate completes the Entered Apprentice ceremony, he takes his first step as a Freemason and enjoys the title of “Brother.”
2nd Degree: Fellow Craft
The second Masonic degree exposes a Brother to more of the symbolism and philosophy of the Fraternity. For skilled Craftsmen of a Stonemasons Guild in ancient times, this degree would have marked a person’s progress from an apprentice to a journeyman.
3rd Degree: Master Mason
The last of the Lodge ceremonies, the Master Mason degree, makes a candidate a full member of the Fraternity, enjoying both the rights and responsibilities of membership.
What do the Masonic Symbols mean?
Sometimes, as the old saying goes, a picture can say a thousand words. Dating back to its roots in Medieval times, Freemasonry makes use of many symbols. These symbols served several purposes: to teach those not adept at reading the written word, to encourage men to interpret and form their own opinions, to remind Masons of their obligations, and to identify Masons to one another. The most well-known of all Masonic symbols are the square & compasses, which stand for morality, honesty and fair dealings with others.
While there are many symbols associated with Freemasonry, none are more universally recognizable than the square and compasses.
For modern Masons, the square and compasses symbol has a unique, profound meaning. It resides at the heart of Masonic lessons, beckoning all Brothers to live a life that is honest, true, and dignified. Any traveling man understands that when he sees this symbol, whether on the façade of a Masonic temple, the bumper sticker of a passing car, or a lapel pin of a colleague, he is in the company of friends.
What is the Square and Compasses?
This symbol consists of three core elements: the square, the compasses, and the letter “G.” The square and compasses are considered to be the tools of the architect and builder, which are used to teach the lessons of the symbolic lodge. To understand the meaning of the whole, it is necessary to break down the significance of each element.
The Square: The square, or builder’s square, is two equal flat-edged metal or wooden arms fixed that form a perfect “right angle” – or 90-degree angle. This tool is critical in stonemasonry because it allows craftsmen to draw and carve perfect square corners. Having perfectly square corners when building is critical to ensuring buildings do not lean and are structurally strong and sound. In Freemasonry, this symbol is used to teach lessons of morality. The notion that being “square” in your actions implies being honest and fair.
The Compasses: Most people likely know the compasses best from their geometry class. This tool consists of two legs equal in length that are fixed together at their apex by an adjustable hinge. In geometry, it is used for drawing perfect circles and arcs, a crucial element of architectural planning. In speculative Masonry, the compasses symbolize self-restraint and man’s ability to reign in his yearnings so that he may live a balanced life.
In the teachings of Freemasonry, the compasses are symbolically employed to draw a boundary line around our desires to avoid overindulgence and maintain moderation, the foundation of morality and wisdom. Taken together, the square and compasses can serve as a reminder that acting truly towards others and balancing one’s own needs will lead to a life of integrity.
The Letter - G: In America, the letter G is often found in the center of the square and compasses. It is less common in England and other parts of the world. Different people will ascribe different meanings to the letter G. For some it refers to Geometry and supports the Masonic lessons and symbolism associated with builders and architects, as well as the measurement and understanding of the order and perfection of the universe. Others see it as referring to God or the “Great Architect of the Universe,” which is an ecumenical term used by Masons of different faiths to refer to Deity as they pray together, each according to his own beliefs.