
Note: This material was scanned into text files for the sole purpose of
convenient electronic research. This material is NOT intended as a
reproduction of the original volumes. However close the material is to
becoming a reproduced work, it should ONLY be regarded as a textual
reference. Scanned at Phoenixmasonry by Ralph W. Omholt, PM in May 2007.

MASONRY DEFINED
A Liberal Masonic Education
INFORMATION EVERY MASON SHOULD HAVE
Compiled from the Writings of
DR. ALBERT G. MACKEY
33°
And Many Other Eminent Authorities
REVISED AND ENLARGED
BY
E. R. JOHNSTON 32°
Originator of the Questionnaire System
of Masonic Education
A. C. MONETTE 32°
NATIONAL MASONIC PRESS, INC.,
SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA
QUESTIONS COPYRIGHTED
JANUARY 11, 1930
BY E. R. JOHNSTON
APPENDIX AND DICTIONARY COPYRIGHTED, 1939
BY
ESTATE OF
E. R. JOHNSTON
MANUFACTURED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
KINGSPORT PRESS, INC. KINGSPORT,
TENNESSEE



MASONIC RECORD
NAME
LODGE
No.
LOCATION
INITIATED PASSED RAISED
Worshipful Master
Senior
Warden
Junior
Warden
Secretary
Royal
Arch
Knights Templar
Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite
Ancient Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine
Other
Masonic Bodies
We are
in position to supply any book on Freemasonry to be had.
Write
for prices and list of books handled.
National Masonic Press,
Shreveport, Louisiana.
INTRODUCTION
The
average Mason, after taking his degrees in Masonry, immediately asks himself
what it all means.
Few
Masons have, or will take, the time to make an exhaustive study of Masonry. It
is to this class of busy Masons this work will make an especial appeal. We
have culled from the writings of many eminent Masonic scholars the "meat" of
the subject, and present it in such form that the busy Mason can get what he
wants without the necessity of extensive reading or study.
If you
have gone into Masonry in the belief that there is really something to it, and
you have a desire to be well informed, you will find in these pages a mine of
useful information, and will be well repaid for the time spent in looking up
any particular subject.
No
Mason can acquire in a few days or months, or even years, all there is in
Masonry. Two of the most famous Masons America has ever produced - General
Albert Pike,
33°,
and Dr. Albert Gallatin Mackey, 33° - spent their entire lives in
Masonic study. Their writings have been preserved, and the busy Mason of today
can find the real facts of Masonry within easy reach.
There
are thousands of Masons who can repeat the ritual, but who have no conception
of what it all means. There is nothing said in the ritual that should seem
mysterious. Everything in Masonry has a beautiful meaning if rightly
understood, and everything done in the ritual work is meant to teach a
distinct moral lesson.
Masonry would die out in five years if it had to depend upon about 85 per cent
of the membership. It is the small minority - the really interested Masons -
who have kept and are keeping the order alive today. These few men give
unselfishly their time and intelligence as officers of their lodges. How long
would any lodge last if all the members merely paid their dues, rarely if ever
attended lodge, and considered their duty done? Does Masonry mean anything to
you, or are you just a "member"? Some Masons seem to take a pride in saying,
"Oh, yes, I belong to the order, but have not been in a lodge room in years."
Of what benefit is Masonry to this man, and what earthly benefit is he to
Masonry? Then again, you will hear a Mason say, "I have lost my interest in
Masonry." He never had any real interest to lose. All he has lost is his
curiosity. If he had been interested he would have learned something about it,
and his interest would have
3
4 INTRODUCTION
been
increased instead of dying out. The Mason who pays his dues because he is
ashamed not to, is simply throwing his money away. He gets no benefit
whatever, and his attitude of indifference sets a bad example to the younger
Masons, who look to him for inspiration and guidance.
Taking
the secret work and learning the ritual does not make a Mason any more than
learning its A B C's makes a child a scholar. It is merely the cornerstone;
the building is yet to be erected.
How
many Masons understand the beautiful lesson of the third degree? If this
lesson were learned and understood and practiced, Masonry would be on a higher
plane than it is today. There would be more real Masons and fewer "members."
Too many Masons say, "I have not the time to read," but they had or took the
time to take their degrees and learn the lectures. The same amount of time
spent in intelligent study would give them the groundwork for a real knowledge
of Masonry; for, if Masonry is worth going into, it is worth knowing something
about.
E. R. JOHNSTON, 32°
PREFACE TO THE
REVISED AND ENLARGED EDITION
The
literature of Freemasonry is very extensive. Many thousands of books crowd the
shelves of the great Masonic libraries of the world. These are of great and
absorbing interest to Masonic scholars but, to the ordinary Mason, this mass
of reading matter is bewildering in its immensity. The newly‑made Mason who
merely desires to satisfy his natural curiosity concerning the Craft, the
Mason on the side lines who wishes to take a worthy part in the labors of his
Lodge, or the busy men of affairs who give so generously of their time and
talent as Lodge and Grand Lodge officers, who have neither the time nor
inclination to make a profound study of the history, philosophy, religion or
jurisprudence of the Craft, will find in "Masonry Defined" a practical hand
book, giving them the information they desire in the simplest, quickest and
easiest way that has been devised. It is designed to enable the ordinary Mason
to locate just the information he needs and wants at the time he requires and
desires it. Nothing has been included that is not of interest and value to
every Mason. Much has been omitted which, however valuable to the Masonic
scholar, is of little or no interest to the average member of the Craft.
Every
known device has been adopted to assist the busy student in finding the
correct answer to any question in the quickest and easiest manner. The
information contained is not new; on the contrary its contents have been
selected from the best and most reliable Masonic authorities, a list of which
is given in the Appendix. The editors have not ventured to make any
innovations in the body of well settled and authoritative Masonic doctrine.
All that is herein contained can be found by any diligent student in the
hundreds of standard works on Free‑masonry, but nowhere else can it be found
in such concise and accessible form.
This
work is especially commended to all members of the Craft who are now, who
expect to, or who hope to become, active in the various Bodies of the Craft.
This work is not designed to be taken as a criterion on matters of
jurisprudence or law - the broad principles have been laid down - but in all
such matters the student should consult the Edicts of the Grand Lodge under
which he resides.
The
study of the following lectures, by number and subject, will give the student
a comprehensive understanding of Freemasonry:
HISTORY
56,
57, 58, 59, 67, 177, 178, 265, 267, 955.
5
TEMPLE
922,
924, 925, 387, 518, 626, 457.
BIBLE
1st
Kings 5, 6, 7, and 2nd Chronicles 1 to 5, inclusive.
ALTAR
50,
118, 119, 371, 436, 557, 694, 846, 886.
WORSHIPFUL MASTER
184,
591, 593, 595, 304, 903.
KEY LECTURES
4, 26,
27, 40, 78, 99, 104, 185, 186, 190, 212, 223, 227, 237, 386, 396, 399, 473,
514,
545,
568, 605, 629, 713, 738, 787, 896, 961, 965, 966, 967, 1011, 1012. Also
lecture page 569.
CATHOLICISM
191,
520, 707.
"The
study of Freemasonry teaches a man to think - if he can think - and to learn -
if he can learn." Albert Pike.
Information of an especial interest relative to the higher degrees in Masonry,
and in the Eastern Star will be found in the APPENDIX. Hundreds of Bible
references with Masonic import will be found scattered through the entire
volume.
THE PUBLISHERS
Questions Every Mason Should Be Able
to
Answer
____________
ABIF
1. Why
was Hiram, our ancient Grand Master, called "ABIF?"
ABLUTION
2. How
is moral purification symbolized?
ABSENCE
3.
What is the ancient rule regarding attendance at Lodge?
ACACIA
4.
What is the symbolism of the sprig of Acacia?
ACCEPTED
5. Why
are Masons said to be "Free and Accepted?"
ACCORD
6.
What is the meaning of "Free Will and Accord?"
ACCUSATION
7.
What is the preliminary step in every Masonic trial?
ACCUSER
8. Who
is the prosecuting officer of a Lodge?
ACQUITTAL
9.
Does acquittal of a Mason by a jury prevent his being tried again by a Lodge
on the same charge?
ACTION
ON PETITION
10.
What action should a Lodge take on receipt of a favorable report on a
petition?
ACTIVE
11.
When is a Lodge or Brother said to be "active?"
ACTIVE
MEMBERSHIP, Prerogative of
12.
What are the prerogatives of the active members of a Lodge?
ADAMS,
John Quincy,
13.
What President of the United States was a bitter opponent of Freemasonry?
7
8 MASONRY DEFINED
ADDRESS
14.
What are the qualifications of Lodge officers?
ADDRESSING A LODGE
15.
What rules govern a Brother while speaking in a Lodge?
ADHERING MASON
16. To
whom does the term "adhering Mason" apply?
ADMISSION
17.
How many candidates can be made Masons on the same day?
ADMISSION OF MEMBERS
18.
Has the Master the right to deny a member admission to his own Lodge?
ADMISSION OF NEW MEMBERS
19.
What right has a new Lodge with respect to the admission of members?
ADMISSION OF VISITORS
20.
Has the Master of a Lodge the right to decline to admit, as a visitor, a
Master Mason in good standing?
ADMITTANCE TO THE LODGE
21.
What is the duty of the Tiler with reference to the admission of persons to a
Lodge room?
ADMONITION
22.
How should a Brother be admonished?
ADONIRAM
23.
Who was Adoniram?
ADOPTIVE MASONRY
24.
What is the relation of women to Masonry in France and in America?
ADVANCED
25.
How is the word "advanced" technically used in Masonry?
ADVANCEMENT, denial of
26.
What is the status of an Entered Apprentice if the Lodge denies him
advancement?
ADVANCEMENT, right of
27.
Does an Entered Apprentice have the right of advancement?
ADYTUM
28.
What are the supports of the Adytum or Lodge?
MASONRY DEFINED 9
AFFABILITY
29. Of
what were the ancient Lodges schools?
AFFILIATED
30.
What is the distinction between an affiliated and a non‑affiliated Mason?
AFFILIATION
31.
What is the Masonic meaning of the term "affiliation?"
AFFILIATION OF NON‑RESIDENTS
32.
Are there any geographical restrictions on the right of affiliation?
AFFILIATION, petition for
33. To
what Lodge or Lodges may a Mason apply for affiliation?
AGAPE,
Love Feast
34.
What is the relation of the ancient Love Feast to Masonry?
AGATE
35. Of
what was the stone of foundation formed?
AGE,
LAWFUL,
36. Is
the age of twenty‑one the lawful age of admission in all Masonic
jurisdictions?
AGE,
MASONIC
37.
Certain numbers are assigned as the symbolic ages of Masons of various
degrees. What are they, and why?
AGENDA
38.
How is the word "agenda" used in Masonry?
AHIMAN
REZON
39.
What was the book of the Constitutions of the Ancient Masons called?
AID
AND ASSISTANCE
40. To
what extent should a Mason extend aid to a worthy distressed brother?
AIR
41. By
what three elements is a Mason proved?
ALARM
42. In
what sense is the word "alarm" used in Masonry?
ALOORAN
43.
What is the sacred book of the Mohammedans called?
10 MASONRY DEFINED
ALDWORTH, the Hon. Mrs.
44.
Has a woman ever been made a Mason?
ALLAH
45.
What is the name of God in the Mohammedan religion?
ALLEGIANCE
46.
What effect does non‑affiliation have upon the allegiance of a Mason to the
fraternity?
ALL‑SEEING EYE
47.
What is the symbolism of the All‑Seeing Eye?
ALLUREMENTS
48.
What allurements does Masonry hold out?
ALMOND
TREE
49.
What is the symbolism of the Almond tree?
ALTAR
50.
What is the symbolism of the Masonic altar?
AMALTHEA
51.
What is the Steward's Jewel, and why?
AMEN
52.
Why do Masons say "amen" at the close of prayer?
AMULET
53.
What is an Amulet?
ANCHOR
54.
What is the symbolism of the Anchor?
ANCHOR
AND ARK
55. Of
what are the Anchor and Ark the emblems?
ANCIENT CRAFT MASONRY
56.
What is included in Ancient Craft Masonry?
ANCIENT CRAFT MASONRY,
degrees of
57.
How many degrees were there in Ancient Craft Masonry?
ANCIENT MASONS
58.
Who and what were the Ancient Masons?
ANDERSON, JAMES, D.D.
59.
Who was the author of the "Constitutions of the Freemasons?"
ANDREW, ST.
60.
Who is the patron saint of Scottish Masons?
MASONRY DEFINED 11
ANNIVERSARIES, Masonic
61.
What are the two principal anniversaries of symbolic Masonry?
ANNUAL
MEETINGS OF GRAND LODGE
62.
What is the precedent for annual meetings of Grand Lodges?
ANOMOLY
63.
Why is Masonry mysterious?
ANNUITIES
64.
What is the most useful form of Masonic charity?
ANTI‑MASONIC PARTY
65.
Did the anti‑Masonic party ever nominate a candidate for President?
ANTI‑MASONRY
66.
Who was alleged to have been murdered by Masons?
ANTIQUITY OF FREEMASONRY
67. In
what year did Masonry become entirely speculative?
APORRHETA
68.
What is permitted to be printed about Masonry and what is not?
APPEAL
FROM BALLOT
69.
Has a Grand Lodge the right to entertain an appeal to reverse a ballot?
APPEAL
FROM GRAND MASTER'S DECISION
70.
Does an appeal lie from a decision of the Grand Master to the Grand Lodge?
APPEAL
OF ENTERED APPRENTICES OR FELLOWCRAFTS
71.
Does an Entered Apprentice or Fellowcraft enjoy the right of Masonic relief?
APPEAL, right of
72.
What rights does a Mason have to appeal from a decision against him?
APPEAL
TO GRAND LODGE
73.
How should an appeal to Grand Lodge be made?
APPELLANT, status of
74.
What is the Masonic status of an Appellant during the pendency of an appeal?
12 MASONRY DEFINED
APPOINTMENTS, Grand Master's prerogative of
75.
What is the Grand Master's prerogative with respect to appointments?
APPOINTMENT OF JUNIOR OFFICERS
76.
Who has the prerogative of appointing the junior officers of a Lodge?
APPOINTMENT OF SUBSTITUTE OFFICERS
77.
Who has the right to appoint substitute officers in the absence of appointive
officers of a Lodge?
APRON
78.
What is the symbolism of the Masonic Apron?
ARCHITECTURE
79.
What is the relation of Architecture to Masonry?
ARCHIVES
80.
For what were the pillars "BOAZ" and "JACHIN" used?
ARK OF
THE COVENANT
81.
What was the Ark of the Covenant and for what was it used?
ARMS
OF FREEMASONRY
82.
What armorial bearings have been borne by Freemasons?
ARRANGEMENT
83.
How were the 18th Century Lodges arranged?
ARREST
OF WARRANT
84.
What is the status of a Lodge whose warrant has been arrested?
ARTS,
liberal
85. In
what degree are the seven liberal arts and sciences explained?
ASCENT
86.
How does a Fellowcraft ascend to receive his wages?
ASHLAR
87. Of
what is the Ashlar emblematic?
ASPIRANT
88.
What name is applied to a seeker of Masonic light?
ASS
89. Of
what is the Ass an emblem?
ATHEIST
90.
Why cannot an atheist become a Freemason?
MASONRY DEFINED
ATTENDANCE
91.
What is the duty of a Mason in respect to attendance at his Lodge?
ATTESTED COPY OF CHARGES
92.
Under what circumstances is it necessary for a Lodge to submit an attested
copy of charges against a member?
AUGUSTAN STYLE
93. In
what city are some of the best examples of Operative Masonry to be found?
AVOUCHMENT
94.
What regulations govern Masonic avouchments?
AVOUCHMENT AT second hand
95.
May a Master Mason lawfully vouch for a visitor on the authority of another?
AXE
96.
Why was King Solomon's temple built without the use of iron tools?
AZURE
97.
What is the color appropriate to symbolic Masonry?
BABYLONISH CAPTIVITY
98.
What punishment was meted out to the Jews who failed to keep the ordinances of
Jehovah?
BACH
99.
What is the symbolism of the fourth point of fellowship?
BADGE
100.
What is the badge of a Master Mason and Why?
BALDACHIN
101.
What is the symbolism of the canopy over the Master's chair?
BALLOT, method of
102.
What is the proper method of conducting the ballot?
BALLOT, reconsideration of
103.
Has a Grand Master power to order reconsideration of a ballot?
BALLOT, secrecy of the
104.
Has a Mason the right to announce how he has cast his ballot for a candidate?
14 MASONRY DEFINED
BALLOT
UNDER DISPENSATION
105.
Do the members of a Lodge under dispensation have the right of ballot on
candidates?
BAND
106.
How should lodge officers wear their jewels?
BANQUET
107.
Should the Worshipful Master be present at Masonic banquets?
BARE
FEET
108.
What is the symbolism of pulling off the shoes?
BASILICA
109.
What is a Basilica?
BATON
110.
What is the badge of the Marshal of a Lodge?
BEAUTY
111.
Why do Masons cultivate order, harmony and beauty?
BEEHIVE
112.
Of what is the beehive emblematic?
BEHAVIOR
113.
What is the ethical code of Freemasonry?
BELIEF
114.
Upon what scriptural basis are the lectures of Freemasonry largely founded?
BENAI
115.
How were the Fellowcrafts employed in the building of King Solomon's temple?
BENEFITS
116.
Of what do the charities of the Masonic order (in part) consist?
BETRAYING
117.
Do we betray Masonic secrets?
BIBLE
118.
What is the relation of the Bible to Freemasonry?
BIBLE,
requirement of
119.
Is a candidate for Masonry required to believe in the divine authenticity of
the Scriptures?
BLACK
120.
What do the colors, black and white, symbolize?
MASONRY DEFINED 15
BLACK
BALLS
121.
Is the rule that one black ball rejects of universal application?
BLAZING STAR
122.
What is the symbolism of the blazing star?
BLUE
MASONRY
123.
What is the symbolism of the color blue?
BOAZ
124.
What was the name of the left‑hand pillar on the porch of King Solomon's
temple?
BOOK
OF CONSTITUTIONS
125.
What is the Book of Constitutions?
BOOK
OF THE LAW
126.
What is the symbolism of the Book of the Law?
BORDER
127.
What are the ornaments of a Lodge?
BRAZEN
PILLARS
128.
What do the two pillars on the tracing board represent?
BREAST
129.
What is the duty of a Mason with respect to a Brother's secrets?
BRIGHT
130.
What is a Mason called who has mastered the ritual?
BROACHED THURNAL
131.
What was the Broached Thurnal?
BROKEN
COLUMN
132.
Of what is the broken column emblematic?
BROTHERHOOD
133.
In what sense is Freemasonry called a brotherhood?
BROTHERLY KISS
134.
How does the Master of a European Lodge greet a newly made Mason?
BROTHERLY LOVE
135.
What Masonic duties are implied by the tenets of brotherly love?
16 MASONRY DEFINED
BULL,
PAPAL
136.
What were the bulls issued by the Popes against the Masonic order?
BURIAL
137.
What right of burial has a Master Mason?
BURIAL, Masonic
138.
May an Entered Apprentice or Fellowcraft take part in a Masonic funeral
procession?
BURIAL
OF ENTERED APPRENTICES
139.
Does an Entered Apprentice have the right of Masonic Burial?
BURIAL
PLACE
140.
Where is the burial place of a Master Mason?
BURIED
TREASURES
141.
Where were treasures commonly concealed in ancient times?
BUSINESS
142.
On what degree should the business of a Lodge be transacted, and why?
BY‑LAWS
143.
What are the rules called that govern a Lodge?
BY‑LAWS, powers of Grand Lodge over
144.
What are the powers of a Grand Lodge with respect to the by‑laws of a
subordinate Lodge?
BY‑LAWS, right of making
145.
Has a Lodge the right to prescribe its own by‑laws?
BY‑LAWS, uniform code of
146.
Has a Grand Lodge the right to prescribe the by‑laws of constituent Lodges?
CABLE
TOW'S LENGTH
147.
What is the length of a Mason's cable tow?
CABUL
148.
What country did King Solomon cede to Hiram, King of Tyre?
CALENDAR
149.
What calendars have been adopted by the various branches of Freemasonry?
CALLING OFF
150.
What term is applied to the temporary postponement of the labors of a Lodge?
MASONRY DEFINED 17
CANDIDATE
151.
What are the qualifications for admission to Freemasonry?
CARDINAL POINTS
152.
What is the Masonic significance of the cardinal points?
CARDINAL VIRTUES
153.
What are the four cardinal virtues?
CARPET
154.
What is the Masonic carpet?
CATECHISM
155.
What part of the Masonic ritual is in the form of a catechism?
CATHERINE
156.
What great woman ruler prohibited Masonry in her country, and afterwards
fostered, encouraged and protected it?
CAUTION
157.
What new name is given to the Entered Apprentice, and why?
CAUTIOUS SECRECY
158.
Why was secrecy observed by our ancient operative brethren?
CAVE
159.
Where did King Solomon have a cave dug and for what purpose?
CEDAR
160.
What are the characteristics of the cedars of Lebanon?
CEMENT
161.
What is the cement of the Lodge?
CENSURE, nature and effect of
162.
What is the nature and effect of Masonic censure?
CENTER
OF UNITY
163.
What is the Masonic center of unity?
CENTER, opening on
164.
What symbolic degree is said to be opened on the center?
CENTRE
165.
How far must the labors of a Freemason penetrate?
CEREMONIES
166.
What should be the mental attitude of one taking the degrees of Masonry?
CERTIFICATE
167.
What is the force and value of a Masonic certificate?
18 MASONRY DEFINED
CHAIN
168.
What do all Masons upon earth form?
CHALK
169.
Of what are charcoal and clay emblematic?
CHANGE
FROM OPERATIVE TO SPECULATIVE FREEMASONRY
170.
What was the effect of the change from operative to speculative Freemasonry on
the status of an Entered Apprentice?
CHAPLAIN
171.
What is the status of the Chaplain in ancient craft Masonry?
CHAPLAIN, Grand
172.
What are the duties of a Grand Chaplain of a Grand Lodge?
CHAPTER PAST MASTERS
173.
Has a virtual or chapter Past Master the status of a Past Master of a Lodge?
CHARACTER
174.
What moral qualifications are demanded of an applicant for the degrees of
Masonry?
CHARGE
175.
What solemn admonitions are given at the close of each degree of Masonry?
CHARGES
176.
What is the proper form and effect of Masonic charges?
CHARGES, Ancient
177.
What are the so‑called Ancient charges?
CHARGES OF 1722
178.
What charges were adopted in 1722, and by whom were they presented?
CHARITY
179.
What is the brightest ornament of our Masonic profession?
CHARTER
180.
What document is required to make the meetings of a Lodge regular?
CHASTITY
181.
What is the ancient admonition of the craft with respect to chastity?
CHIEF
POINT
182.
What is the chief point in Masonry?
MASONRY DEFINED 19
CHILDREN OF LIGHT
183.
As true Masons, from what do we stand redeemed?
CHOICE
OF OFFICERS
184.
What qualifications should be required of officers of a Lodge?
CIRCLE
185.
Of what is the circle emblematic?
CIRCLE
AND PARALLEL LINES
186.
Of what is the point within a circle emblematic?
CIRCUMSPECTION
187.
What is a Mason's duty as to his words and carriage?
CLASSES
188.
How did King Solomon classify the workmen on the temple?
CLAY
GROUND
189.
Where were the pillars of the Temple cast?
CLEAN
HANDS
190.
What is the symbolism of clean hands?
CLEMENT XII
191.
Who was the Pope who issued a bull against Freemasonry?
CLOSING
192.
Can a Masonic Lodge be adjourned?
CLOTHED
193.
When is a Mason properly clothed?
CLOTHING, partial
194.
Of what, in Masonry, is partial clothing a symbol?
COERCION
195.
Should anyone be urged to become a Mason against his will?
COFFIN
196.
Of what is the Coffin emblematic?
COLLECTION OF LODGE DUES
197.
What are the duties of the Secretary with reference to the collection of Lodge
dues?
COLORS
198.
What are the Masonic colors and what do they represent?
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
199.
What is the prerogative of the Master with reference to lodge committees?
20 MASONRY DEFINED
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
200.
Is it lawful for a Masonic Lodge to sit as a committee of the whole?
COMMITTEES, regulations governing
201.
What are the regulations which govern committees of the Lodge?
COMMUNICATION
202.
What term signifies a regular meeting of a Lodge?
COMMUNICATION OF CHARGES
203.
How may charges of un-masonic conduct be communicated to a non‑resident
brother?
COMO
204.
What city was headquarters of the operative Masons during the dark ages?
COMPASSES
205.
Of what is a line drawn by the compasses emblematic?
COMPLAINT
206.
How should complaints against a brother be handled?
COMPOSITION OF GRAND LODGE
207.
What is the definition of a Grand Lodge and of whom is it composed?
CONCORD
208.
Upon what should the Master of a Lodge found his government?
CONDUCTING CANDIDATES
209.
Who performs the duty of conducting a candidate during Masonic work?
CONFERRING DEGREES IN GRAND LODGE
210.
Has the Grand Lodge the power to confer the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry?
CONFIDENCE
211.
What is the real meaning of the so‑called "Oath"?
CONGRESS, MASONIC
212.
What efforts have been made to establish a General Grand Lodge for the United
States?
CONSECRATION, elements of
213.
What materials are used by Masons for consecration purposes?
MASONRY DEFINED 21
CONSECRATION OF LODGES
214.
What custom should be observed on the day of consecration?
CONSENT, unanimous
215.
What is the origin of the rule requiring unanimous consent to the admission of
a candidate?
CONSTITUTE, legally
216.
When is a Lodge legally constituted?
CONSTITUTION, just and legal
217.
When is a Lodge said to be justly and legally constituted?
CONSTITUTION OF A LODGE
218.
What is the effect of the ceremony of constitution?
CONTROVERSY
219.
What subjects of discussion are barred from the Lodge room?
CONVENING A LODGE
220.
Can a Lodge be congregated without the consent of the Master?
CORINTHIAN
221.
What was the origin of the Corinthian columns?
CORN
222.
What is the symbolism of Corn?
CORNER
STONE, symbolism of the
223.
What is the symbolism of the Corner stone?
CORNUCOPIA, or the horn of plenty
224.
Of what is the Cornucopia emblematic?
CORRESPONDENCE OF THE LODGE
225.
What is the duty of the Secretary with reference to the correspondence of the
Lodge?
COUNSEL AT MASONIC TRIAL
226.
Has a Master Mason on trial the right to employ counsel?
COVENANT OF MASONRY
227.
What are the obligations of the Masonic covenant?
COWAN
228.
Why are Cowans excluded from a Lodge?
CRAFT
229.
Define the word "Craft."
CRAFTSMAN
230.
As a Craftsman, what are you to encourage?
22 MASONRY DEFINED
CREED,
a Mason's
231.
What is the creed of a Freemason?
CRIMES, Masonic
232.
What constitutes a crime in Freemasonry?
CRIMES, Masonic punishment of
233.
What is the definition of a Masonic crime?
CROSS‑LEGGED
234.
Who were called "cross‑legged" Masons?
CROWN
OF THORNS
235.
Of what was the "crown of thorns" on the Savior's brow composed?
CUBICAL STONE
236.
What is the legend of the cubical stone?
CUBIT
237.
What is the length of a cubit?
CURIOSITY
238.
What is one of the prevailing passions of the human heart?
CUSTODY OF THE BALLOT BOX
239.
To whom is entrusted the custody of the ballot box?
CUSTODY OF WARRANT
240.
Who has the custody of the warrant of constitution?
DARKNESS
241.
Of what is darkness a symbol?
DAUGHTER OF A MASON
242.
What are the privileges of a Mason's daughter?
DAY'S
WORK
243.
Why is the Senior Warden's station in the west?
DEACONS
244.
What part have the Deacons in the work of the Craft?
DEATH
245.
What is the symbolic meaning of Death?
DEBATE
246.
What are the Masonic rules of debate?
DEBATES, prohibited
247.
What subjects of debate are prohibited in a Lodge?
MASONRY DEFINED 23
DECISION OF MASTER
248.
Has a Master of a Lodge the right to permit an appeal by courtesy from a
decision?
DECISIONS OF THE MASTER, appeals from
249.
What rules govern appeals from a decision of a master of a Lodge?
DECLARATION OF CANDIDATES
250.
What declaration is required from candidates for initiation into Masonry?
DECLARING OFF
251.
What is meant by "declaring off?"
DEDICATION
252.
To whom were Lodges formerly dedicated?
DEDICATION, ceremony of
253.
What is the origin of the ceremony of dedication?
DEFAMATION
254.
What is a Mason's duty as to the good name of his brethren?
DEFINITE SUSPENSION
255.
What is the meaning and effect of the Masonic penalty of definite suspension?
DEFINITION OF FREEMASONRY
256.
What is the definition of Freemasonry?
DEGREE
257.
What does the word "degree" signify?
DEGREES
258.
Why are there degrees in Masonry?
DEGREES, ancient
259.
What was the custom of ancient craft Masonry in conferring the three degrees?
DEMISSION
260.
Under what circumstances can a Mason exercise the right of demission?
DEMIT
261.
What is a Masonic demit, and how does it affect his standing in the Craft?
DEPRIVATION OF RIGHT TO VOTE
262.
Can a Mason be lawfully deprived of the right of participation in a ballot?
24 MASONRY DEFINED
DEPUTY
GRAND MASTER
263.
What are the office and function of a Deputy Grand Master?
DEPUTY
GRAND MASTER, prerogatives of
264.
Has the Deputy Grand Master the prerogative of establishing Lodges and
granting dispensations?
DESAGULIERS, JOHN THEOPHILUS
265.
Who is called the father of modern speculative Freemasonry?
DESIGN
266.
What is the design of Freemasonry?
DESTRUCTION OF THE TEMPLE
267.
What Masonic degree is based on the destruction of the Temple?
DEVELOPMENT
268.
How may a brother make progress in Masonry?
DIDACTICAL
269.
What is the fourth section of the first lecture called?
DIFFUSION
270.
How did King Solomon diffuse Masonry throughout the world?
DIPLOMA
271.
Why should a Mason carry a traveling certificate or diploma?
DISCIPLINE
272.
What system of discipline should be enforced in Masonic Lodges?
DISCOVERY
273.
What discovery was made at the building of the second Temple?
DISCUSSION OF BALLOT
274.
Has a Mason the right to declare how he voted on a ballot?
DISPENSATION
275.
What is a dispensation and by whom can it be granted?
DISPENSATION, by‑laws of Lodges under
276.
Has a Lodge under dispensation power to enact its own by‑laws?
DISPENSATION, candidates of a Lodge under
277.
By what procedure are candidates of a Lodge under dispensation elected?
MASONRY DEFINED 25
DISPENSATION, length of
278.
How long does a Lodge usually run under dispensation?
DISPENSATION, Lodge under
279.
What is the status of a Mason made in a Lodge under dispensation?
DISPENSATION OF UNANIMOUS CONSENT
280.
Has a Grand Lodge the right to issue a dispensation to admit a Mason without
unanimous consent?
DISPENSATION TO FILL VACANCY IN THE OFFICE OF MASTER
281.
Has the Grand Master the right to grant a dispensation for the election of a
Master in the event of the Master's death or disability?
DISPENSATIONS FOR LODGES
282.
What is the status of a Lodge under dispensation?
DISPUTES
283.
How should disputes between Masons be disposed of?
DISSOLUTION OF A LODGE
284.
On what grounds may a Masonic Lodge be lawfully dissolved?
DISTRESS
285.
Is Freemasonry a charitable institution?
DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTER
286.
What official in British Freemasonry corresponds to the District Deputy Grand
Master?
DIVISION OF MASONIC OFFENSES
287.
Into what three classes are Masonic offenses divided?
DOCTRINES
288.
What do the three degrees blend?
DORIC
289.
What is the second order of architecture?
DOTAGE
290.
What is the meaning of the word "dotage" as used in Free‑masonry?
DOUBLE
PUNISHMENT
291.
May charges be lawfully brought by a Masonic Lodge for an offense for which
the brother has already been punished by the civil authorities?
26 MASONRY DEFINED
DOUBTS
292.
What is a good rule in all doubtful matters?
DOVE
293.
Of what is the dove emblematic?
DUE
FORM
294.
What distinguishes "due form" from "ample form"?
DUE
GUARD
295.
What does the due guard teach?
DUE
GUARD, meaning of
296.
What is the due guard?
DUES
297.
What are the rights of a Lodge with respect to establishing dues and
assessments?
DUES,
payment of
298.
What is the origin of the custom requiring the payment of dues?
DUES
UNDER SUSPENSION
299.
Ts a Mason required to pay dues while under suspension?
DUMBNESS
300.
Can a dumb person become a Mason?
DUTIES
OF LODGE
301.
What are the duties of a Lodge with reference to the reputation of ancient
craft Masonry?
DUTIES
OF MASTER MASONS
302.
What duties do Masons owe to God, their neighbors and them‑selves?
DUTY
303.
What are the duties of a Mason?
EAST
304.
Why does the Worshipful Master sit in the east?
EAVESDROPPER
305.
What was the Masonic punishment for eavesdropping?
ECCLESIASTICAL OR POLITICAL OFFENSES
306.
Can Masonic charges be based upon ecclesiastical or political offenses?
MASONRY DEFINED 27
EDICT
OF CYRUS
307.
What degrees of Masonry are based on the rebuilding of the Temple?
EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES
308.
What were the Egyptian mysteries?
ELECTING OFFICERS
309.
What qualifications should be sought in the choice of the officers of a Lodge?
ELECTION OF GRAND WARDENS
310.
What was formerly the custom of the Craft with regard to the choice of Grand
Wardens?
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
311.
How often and at what time should the officers of a Lodge be elected?
ELECTION OF OFFICERS OF LODGE UNDER DISPENSATION
312.
Has a Lodge under dispensation the right to elect its own officers?
ELECTIONS, regulations governing
313.
What rules govern the election of a Masonic official?
ELECTION TO FILL VACANCY
314.
What steps must be taken to fill a vacancy in an office in a Masonic Lodge?
ELIGIBILITY AS GRAND WARDEN
315.
What is required for eligibility to the office of Grand Warden?
ELIGIBILITY AS MASTER OF A LODGE
316.
What other office must a Master Mason have held to become eligible to be
Master of a Lodge?
ELIGIBILITY AS TILER
317.
Who are eligible for election as Tiler in a Masonic Lodge?
ELIGIBILITY OF PAST MASTERS
318.
What are the prerogatives of a Past Master with respect to office in the Grand
Lodge?
ELIGIBILITY OF WARDENS
319.
What prerogatives do Wardens enjoy with reference to eligibility for election
to office?
ELIGIBILITY TO ELECTION AS OFFICERS
320.
What regulations govern eligibility to office in a Lodge?
28 MASONRY DEFINED
EMBLEM
321.
What is the difference between an Emblem and a Symbol?
EMERGENCY
322.
What constitutes a case of emergency in Masonry and who is the Judge?
ENTERED APPRENTICE
323.
As an Entered Apprentice, what was the Mason taught?
ENTERED APPRENTICES, relief of
324.
Are Entered Apprentices entitled to Masonic relief?
ENTERED APPRENTICE, right of visitation
325.
Does an Entered Apprentice have the right of visitation?
ENTERED APPRENTICE, rights of
326.
What rights does a candidate obtain after receiving the Entered Apprentice
degree?
ENTERED APPRENTICE, status of
327.
What was the original status of the Entered Apprentice degree?
ENTRANCE
328.
What penitential hymn of King Solomon is read on the entrance of the candidate
in the third degree?
ENVY
329.
What should be the attitude of a Mason toward a brother?
EQUALITY
330.
What is a Masonic equality?
EQUIVOCATION
331.
Why must the Masonic oath be taken without equivocation?
ERASURE FROM THE ROLL
332.
What is the status of a Mason whose name has been stricken from the roll for
non‑payment of dues?
ESOTERIC MASONRY
333.
What distinguishes exoteric from esoteric Freemasonry?
ESSENTIAL SECRETS
334.
What are the essential secrets of Masonry?
ESTABLISHED RELIGION
335.
What should be the attitude of Masons toward the Church?
EUNUCH
336.
Why cannot a Eunuch become a Mason?
MASONRY DEFINED 29
EUNUCHS, status of
337.
Were Eunuchs ever eligible for initiation into Masonry?
EVERGREEN
338.
Why do Masons wear evergreens at funerals?
EVIDENCE
339.
Is it lawful to admit on appeal new evidence not presented at the original
trial?
EXAMINATION
340.
How should we treat a stranger who claims to be a Mason?
EXAMINATION OF OFFICERS OF A NEW LODGE
341.
By whom should the officers of a newly organized Lodge be examined?
EXAMINATION OF VISITORS
342.
Under what circumstances may a visitor be admitted to a Lodge without
examination?
EXCLUSION
343.
Has a Lodge a right to exclude a member on cause shown temporarily or
permanently, from a Lodge?
EXCLUSION, meaning of
344.
What is the Masonic definition of the word "exclusion"?
EXECUTIVE POWERS OF GRAND LODGE
345.
How are the executive powers of a Grand Lodge exercised?
EXEMPTION
346.
What privileges were given the Masons selected to build the Temple?
EXEMPTION OF MASTER FROM TRIAL BY LODGE
347.
Has a Masonic Lodge the right to try its Master on charges?
EX
POST FACTO LAWS
348.
Has the Grand Lodge the right to pass Ex Post Facto laws?
EXPULSION
349.
What is the effect of the expulsion of a Mason from his Lodge?
EXPULSION BY GRAND LODGE
350.
Is it lawful for a Grand Lodge to expel a member of a subordinate Lodge?
EXPULSION, prerogative of
351.
In what body is the prerogative of expulsion from Freemasonry vested?
30 MASONRY DEFINED
EXTENT
352.
What is the extent of a Masonic Lodge?
EXTERNAL
353.
Where does the external preparation of a candidate take place?
EYE
354.
Of what is the Eye of God symbolic?
EYESIGHT
355.
Why does the candidate wear a hoodwink?
FABRIC
356.
Upon what is the Masonic system founded?
FANATICISM
357.
Why should Masons avoid fanaticism?
FEELING
358.
By which of the five senses does a Mason distinguish a friendly or brotherly
grip?
FELLOWCRAFT, right of
359.
What are the present rights of Fellowcra f ts?
FEMALES
360.
Why cannot a woman be present in an open lodge of Free‑masons?
FIDES
361.
Under what name did our ancient brethren worship Deity?
FINANCE
362.
Who is responsible for the finances of a Masonic Lodge?
FIRST
DEGREE
363.
What are the moral teachings of the first degree?
FIVE
POINTS OF FELLOWSHIP
364.
What are the teachings of the five points of fellowship?
FIVE
SENSES
365.
In what degree are the lessons of the five senses explained?
FIXED
LIGHTS
366.
What are the fixed lights of a Lodge?
FLOOR
367.
Of what is the Mosaic pavement emblematic?
FOOT
TO FOOT
368.
What is the symbolism of the foot in Masonry?
MASONRY DEFINED 31
FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE
369.
What is the function of the Grand Lodge committee on foreign correspondence?
FOREIGN COUNTRY
370.
What do Masons mean by "traveling in foreign countries"?
FORM
OF THE LODGE
371.
What is the form of a Masonic Lodge?
FORTITUDE
372.
What is the Masonic virtue of fortitude?
FOUL
373.
When is the ballot box said to be "foul"?
FOUNDATION
374.
On what day should corner stones be laid?
FOUR
DEGREES
375.
How many degrees had Ancient Freemasonry?
FREE
376.
In what sense is the word "free" applied to Masons?
FREE
AND ACCEPTED
377.
How did the title "Free and Accepted Masons" originate?
FREE‑BORN
378.
What must be the status of a candidate for Masonry?
FREEMASONRY
379.
What is the difference between Masonry and Freemasonry?
FREEMASONRY, definitions of
380.
What are the best known definitions of Freemasonry?
FREE
WILL AND ACCORD
381.
Why are Masons forbidden to solicit members?
FRIENDSHIP
382.
On what is the universality of Masonry based?
FUNERAL PROCESSIONS
383.
Has a Lodge the right to conduct a funeral procession with‑out a dispensation
from the Grand Lodge?
FUNERAL SERVICES
384.
Under what conditions can Masonic burial be granted?
FURNITURE OF THE LODGE
385.
What is the furniture of the Lodge?
32 MASONRY DEFINED
G
386.
What is the symbolism of the letter "G"?
GATES
OF THE TEMPLE
387.
Is the Temple merely a symbol in Masonry, or an historical building?
GAVEL
388.
What is the symbolism of the gavel?
GENERAL REGULATIONS
389.
What is the origin of the General Regulations of Ancient Craft Masonry?
GENTLEMAN MASON
390.
How was the term "Gentleman Mason" employed?
GENUFLEXION
391.
Of what is the act of kneeling a token?
GEOGRAPHICAL JURISDICTION
392.
What is the geographical jurisdiction of a Lodge?
GEOMETRY
393.
What is the relation of Geometry to Freemasonry?
GHIBLIM
394.
Who were the Ghiblimites?
GOAT,
riding the
395.
How did the expression "riding the goat" originate?
GOD
396.
Why cannot an atheist become a Mason?
GODFATHER
397.
What is the member who introduces a candidate in France called?
G. O.
D.
398.
What three pillars of Masonry are named by the letters "G", “O”, “D”?
GOLDEN
FLEECE
399.
Why is the Masonic apron compared with the Golden Fleece?
GOLDEN
RULE
400.
Why do Masons observe the golden rule?
GOOD
SHEPHERD
401.
Who was called the Good Shepherd?
MASONRY DEFINED 33
GOOSE
AND GRIDIRON
402.
Where did the Grand Lodge of England hold its first meeting?
GRADES
OF RANK
403.
How are the grades of Masonic rank defined?
GRAND
ARCHITECT
404.
What is the usual Masonic name for the Deity?
GRAND
CHAPLAIN
405.
What is the office and function of Grand Chaplain?
GRAND
DEACON
406.
What is the history and function of the office of Grand Deacon?
GRAND
EAST
407.
Why is the seat of a Grand Lodge known as the Grand East?
GRAND
LECTURER
408.
What is the office and function of Grand Lecturer?
GRAND
LECTURER, qualifications of
409.
What qualifications are necessary for a candidate for the office of Grand
Lecturer?
GRAND
LODGE
410.
What are the powers of a Grand Lodge?
GRAND
LODGE ATTENDANCE
411.
May an Entered Apprentice attend Grand Lodge?
GRAND
LODGE CERTIFICATES
412.
Is the possession of a Grand Lodge certificate conclusive evidence of the good
standing of its possessor?
GRAND
LODGES, jurisdictions of
413.
What is the jurisdiction of a Grand Lodge?
GRAND
LODGES, organization of
414.
How is a Grand Lodge organized?
GRAND
LODGE TRIALS
415.
What is the usual procedure of a Grand Lodge in conducting a Masonic trial?
GRAND
MARSHAL
416.
What is the office and function of Grand Marshal?
GRAND
MASTER
417.
What are the powers and privileges of a Grand Master?
34 MASONRY DEFINED
GRAND
MASTER, office of
418.
What is the origin and history of the office of Grand Master?
GRAND
MASTER'S POWER OF CONGREGATING MASONS
419.
What is the prerogative of the Grand Master with respect to assembling Masons
into Lodges?
GRAND
MASTER'S POWER OF CONVENING GRAND LODGE
420.
What is the prerogative of the Grand Master with respect to his power of
convening Grand Lodge?
GRAND
MASTER'S PREROGATIVE OF ARREST OF CHARTER
421.
What is the Grand Master's prerogative with regard to the arrest of the
charter of a Lodge?
GRAND
MASTER'S PREROGATIVE OF DISPENSATION
422.
What is the prerogative of the Grand Master with respect to dispensations?
GRAND
MASTER'S PREROGATIVE OF PRESIDING
423.
What is the prerogative of the Grand Master with respect to presiding over the
Craft?
GRAND
MASTER'S PREROGATIVE OF VOTING
424.
What is the Grand Master's prerogative with respect to voting in Grand Lodge?
GRAND
OFFERINGS
425.
What three important events in Scripture are designated as the Three Grand
Offerings of Masonry?
GRAND
OFFICERS
426.
How may Grand officers be removed from office?
GRAND
PURSUIVANT
427.
What are the office and function of Grand Pursuivant?
GRAND
SECRETARY
428.
What is the nature and function of the office of Grand Secretary?
GRAND
STEWARDS
429.
What are the history and functions of the office of Grand Steward?
GRAND
SWORD BEARER
430.
What is the history and function of the office of Grand Sword Bearer?
GRAND
TILER
431.
What are the office and functions of the Grand Tiler?
MASONRY DEFINED 35
GRAND
TREASURER
432.
What are the functions of a Grand Treasurer?
GRAND
WARDENS
433.
What are the office and functions of Grand Wardens?
GRAVE
434.
Of what is the grave emblematic?
GRAVITY
435.
Should members be permitted to leave the Lodge during initiating ceremonies?
GREAT
LIGHTS
436.
What is the symbolism of the great lights?
GRIP
AND SIGN
437.
Why were grips and signs used by operative Masons?
GROUND
FLOOR OF THE LODGE
438.
Why is the ground floor of a Lodge known as Mount Moriah?
GROUNDS FOR AVOUCHMENT
439.
On what grounds may a Mason lawfully vouch for a visitor?
GROUNDS FOR EXPULSION
440.
What are regarded as sufficient grounds for expulsion of a Mason?
GUIDE
441.
Under what promise do we begin our Masonic career?
HAMMER
442.
What is the symbol of the power of the Master?
HAND
443.
What is the symbolism of the Hand in Masonry?
HANDWRITING
444.
Why is a candidate required to make out his petition in his own handwriting?
HARODIM
445.
At the building of King Solomon's temple, what were the overseers called?
HAT
446.
Why does the presiding officer of a Lodge wear a hat?
HEAL
447.
How can a clandestine Mason be made a lawful Mason?
36 MASONRY DEFINED
HEARING
448.
Why cannot a deaf mute be made a Mason?
HEARING
449.
By which of the five senses do we receive the Master's word?
HEART
450.
Why must an applicant for Masonry be first prepared in his heart?
HECATOMB
451.
What is a hecatomb?
HELPLESSNESS
452.
What does the candidate's condition when first submitted signify?
HERMANDAD
453.
What ancient Spanish society was based on Masonic principles?
HIGHEST OF HILLS
454.
Why did the ancient lodges meet on high hills and in low valleys?
HIGH
TWELVE
455.
What is the hour of noon called among Masons?
HIRAM
456.
In English Lodges what is the gavel called?
HIRAM
ABIF
457.
What is known of the life of our Ancient Grand Master?
HIRAM,
King of Tyre
458.
What co‑operation did Hiram, King of Tyre, give King Solomon?
HOLY
GROUND
459.
How was the first Lodge consecrated?
HOLY
OF HOLIES
460.
What was the most sacred part of the Temple?
HOLY
NAME
461.
Why do Masons revere the Holy name?
HOLY
SAINTS JOHN
462.
To whom should a Masonic Lodge be dedicated?
HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
463.
What are the regulations governing honorary membership in a Lodge?
MASONRY DEFINED 37
HONORS, Grand
464.
What are Grand Honors? Why and how are they given?
HOODWINK
465.
Of what is the hoodwink a symbol?
HOPE
466.
Of what is Hope emblematic?
HOURGLASS
467.
Of what is the hourglass emblematic?
HOURS,
MASONIC
468.
What were the hours of labor of our operative brethren?
HOURS
OF WORK
469.
Why should officers of Lodges be punctual in their attendance?
I.A.M.
470.
What do the initials I. A. M. signify?
IDEAS
471.
What method of teaching morality was in vogue in the early period of the
world?
IDIOT
472.
In what sense is the word "idiot" used among Masons?
IGNORANCE
473.
What is the fate of the ignorant Mason?
ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS
474.
How can a suspended Lodge be re‑instated?
ILLITERACY
475.
Are illiterate persons eligible for Masonry?
IMMORTALITY OF THE SOUL
476.
What is the teaching of the sublime degree?
IMMOVABLE
477.
What are the immovable jewels?
IMPEACHMENT
478.
Can a Lodge remove its Master?
IMPERFECTIONS
479.
Are there any imperfections in the Masonic system?
IMPLEMENTS
480.
What are the symbolic teachings of the implements of Craft Masonry?
38 MASONRY DEFINED
IMPOSTERS
481.
How may a Lodge guard itself against imposters?
IMPOSTS
482.
What race performed the more humble labors in the erection of the Temple?
IMPUTATIONS
483.
Can Masonry be held accountable for the conduct of all its members?
INCHOATE LODGE
484.
What steps must a Lodge take after it has received its war‑rant, to become
lawfully constituted?
INCHOATE MEMBERSHIP
485.
Under what circumstances is membership in the Masonic fraternity said to be
inchoate?
INCORPORATION
486.
Can Masonic Lodges be incorporated?
INDEFINITE SUSPENSION
487.
What is the Masonic definition of the phrase, "indefinite sus‑pension"?
INDEPENDENCE IN BALLOTING
488.
To whom is a Mason answerable for his motives when casting a ballot?
INDUCTION, rite of
489.
What does the rite of induction signify?
INDUSTRY
490.
Of what is the beehive emblematic?
INFLUENCE
491.
How can the influence of Masonry be supported?
INFORMATION, lawful
492.
Under what circumstances can one Mason vouch for another?
INITIATED
493.
Are the Masonic ceremonies the true secrets of the order?
INNOVATIONS
494.
Is the Masonic system subject to change?
INSANITY
495.
Is a person formerly insane, but restored to health, admissible as a
candidate?
MASONRY DEFINED 39
INSIGNIA
496.
Of what are the Masonic insignias emblematic?
INSPECTION OF WARRANT
497.
Has a visitor the right to inspect the warrant of a Lodge?
INSTALLATION
498.
What is the origin of the ceremony of installation?
INSTALLATION, ancient charges
499.
What were the ancient installation charges?
INSTALLATION BY PROXY
500.
Is it lawful to install the officers of a Lodge by proxy?
INSTALLATION IN LODGE UNDER DISPENSATION
501.
Has a Lodge under dispensation the right to install its officers?
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
502.
What regulations govern the installation of officers of a Lodge?
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS OF A WARRANTED LODGE
503.
Who is eligible to install the officers of a warranted Lodge?
INSTRUCTED
504.
Who is responsible for the proper instruction of a candidate?
INSTRUMENTAL MASONRY
505.
What is instrumental Masonry?
INTENTION
506.
What affirmation of intention accompanies the Mason's oath?
INTERNAL QUALIFICATIONS
507.
How is the external preparation of a candidate made known?
INTERRUPTION
508.
Why should Masons take care not to interrupt a brother who is speaking in a
Lodge?
INTOLERANCE
509.
What is the arch enemy of Freemasonry?
INVESTIGATION
510.
To whom should the investigation of a petition for Masonry be entrusted?
INVOCATION
511.
What form of invocation is customary in American Lodges?
IRON
TOOLS
512.
What does the absence of iron tools at the building of King Solomon's temple
symbolize?
40 MASONRY DEFINED
JACHIN
513.
What is the name of the right hand pillar facing east on the porch of King
Solomon's temple?
JACOB'S LADDER
514.
What is the Masonic symbolism of Jacob's ladder?
JEHOSHAPHAT
515.
In the earliest lectures where was the Lodge supposed to stand?
JEHOVAH
516.
Why is Jehovah said to be the ineffable name in Masonry?
JEPTHA
517.
What is the Masonic tradition with regard to Jeptha?
JERUSALEM
518.
Why was Jerusalem chosen as the site of King Solomon's temple?
JERUSALEM, heavenly
519.
What is the place of the heavenly Jerusalem in Masonry?
JESUITS
520.
What branch of the Roman Catholic Church has sought to pervert Masonry to
political intrigue and religious bigotry?
JEWELS
521.
What are the ornaments of a Freemason?
JEWISH
SYMBOLS
522.
Did the Jewish law prohibit the use of symbols?
JOHANNITE MASONRY
523.
To whom were Lodges formerly dedicated?
JOHN'S
BROTHERS
524.
By what name was the Masonic society formerly known?
JOINING
525.
Is a member excluded from one Lodge eligible to join another?
JOPPA
526.
Why was the timber for the Temple delivered at the port of Joppa?
JOURNEY
527.
What aid does a Mason receive on the journey of life?
II1III
,11 MASONRY DEFINED 41
JOURNEYMAN
528.
What is the difference between a journeyman and a fellow‑craft?
JUDAH
529.
What Masonic symbol is derived from the banner of the tribe of Judah?
JUDICIAL POWERS OF GRAND LODGE
530.
By what process does a Grand Lodge exercise its judicial functions?
JUNIOR
DEACON
531.
What are the duties of the Junior Deacon?
JUNIOR
WARDEN, duties of
532.
What is the duty of the Junior Warden in the absence of the Master and Senior
Warden?
JURISDICTION OF A LODGE
533.
What is the jurisdiction of a Masonic Lodge?
JURISDICTION OF GRAND LODGE
534.
What is the extent of the jurisdiction of a Grand Lodge?
JUST
AND PERFECT
535.
What is required to make a Lodge just and perfect?
JUSTICE
536.
Why should justice be the study of every Mason?
JUSTIFICATION
537.
On what grounds do Masons justify their moral system?
KEY
538.
Of what is the Key emblematic?
KINDS
OF LODGES
539.
What two distinct kinds of Lodges are recognized in Free‑masonry?
KNEE
TO KNEE
540.
What is the symbolism of bending the knee?
KNEELING
541.
What posture do Masons assume in many of the degrees?
KNOCK
542.
What is the symbolism of the alarm at the inner door?
LABOR
543.
What is regarded as the most important word in Freemasonry?
42 MASONRY DEFINED
LAMB
544.
What does the lamb symbolize?
LANDMARKS
545.
What are the ancient landmarks of Masonry?
LATE
HOURS
546.
Why should a Masonic Lodge be closed at a reasonable hour?
LAVER,
brazen
547.
Of what is the brazen laver emblematic?
LAWS
OF THE LAND
548.
Why should a Mason respect the law?
LAW‑SUITS
549.
Why should Masons avoid law‑suits with one another?
LAW,
unwritten
550.
What is the unwritten law of Freemasonry?
LEBANON
551.
Why did King Solomon seek the aid of Hiram, King of Tyre?
LECTURE
552.
What is a Masonic lecture?
LECTURER
553.
What are the duties of a Masonic lecturer?
LEFT
HAND
554.
Of what is the left hand a symbol?
LEFT
SIDE
555.
What is the symbol of the left side?
LEGEND
556.
What part do legends play in the Masonic system?
LESSER
LIGHTS
557.
What do the lesser lights symbolize?
LEVEL
558.
What is the symbolism of the Level?
LEWIS,
or Louveteau
559.
What are the privileges of a Lewis or Louveteau?
LIBERTINE
560.
What does the word "libertine" signify in Masonry?
LIBERTINISM
561.
Why cannot a libertine become a Mason?
MASONRY DEFINED 43
LIGHT
562.
What is the symbolism of light?
LILY
563.
Of what is the lily emblematic?
LIMITATION OF MASONIC RELIEF
564.
What limit is placed on the obligation of a Mason to extend relief to a
distressed worthy brother?
LODGE
565.
What is the definition of a Lodge?
LODGE
OF ST. JOHN
566.
Why are Masons said to come from the Lodge of the Holy Saints John of
Jerusalem?
LODGES
OF TYRE
567.
How many Lodges were in the quarries of Tyre?
LOST
WORD
568.
What is the symbolism of the lost word?
LOVE
569.
What is the measure of Masonic charity?
LOW
TWELVE
570.
What is midnight called among Masons?
LOYALTY
571.
What must the attitude of a Mason be toward his country?
MAGNA
CHARTA
572.
What famous document is the basis of English liberty?
MAKE
573.
What term used by Masons is equivalent to initiated?
MAKING
574.
What does it mean to be "made a Mason"?
MAKING, ancient charges at
575.
What were the ancient charges at the making of a Freemason?
MAKING
MASONS AT SIGHT
576.
What is the significance of the expression "Making Masons at Sight"?
MALLET
577.
Of what is the mallet emblematic?
MANUEL
MASONS
578.
Who are said to be manuel Masons?
44 MASONRY DEFINED
MANUMISSION
579.
Is a manumitted slave admissible as a candidate for Free‑masonry?
MANUSCRIPTS
580.
Under what circumstances were certain old Masonic manuscripts burned by some
scrupulous brother?
MARKS
OF THE CRAFT
581.
What are Masonic marks and why are they employed?
MASON
582.
What are the characteristics of a true Mason?
MASON,
derivation of
583.
What is the derivation of the word Mason?
MASONIC COLORS
584.
What are the Masonic colors and what do they symbolize?
MASONIC HALL
585.
How should a Masonic hall be built and located?
MASONIC RELIEF FOR ORPHANS
586.
Under what circumstances do the orphans of a Mason forfeit their claim to
Masonic relief?
MASONIC YEAR
587.
On what date does the Masonic year begin?
MASONRY
588.
When is it useless to profess a knowledge of Freemasonry?
MASON'S DAUGHTER
589.
What is the degree of a Mason's daughter?
MASON'S WIND
590.
In what direction does a Mason's wind blow?
MASTER, intellectual qualifications of
591.
What should be the intellectual qualifications of the Master of a Lodge?
MASTER
MASON
592.
What does the Master Mason represent?
MASTER
OF A LODGE
593.
Why is the choice of Master so important to a Lodge?
MASTER
OF CEREMONIES
594.
What are the duties of a master of ceremonies?
MASONRY DEFINED 45
MASTER, qualifications of
595.
What are the qualifications of a Master?
MATURE
AGE
596.
At what age can one become a Mason?
MAUSOLEUM
597.
What is a mausoleum?
MEDALS, Masonic
598.
Of what importance are Masonic medals?
MEET
ON THE LEVEL
599.
What is the symbolism of meeting on the level?
MEETINGS
600.
By what attitude should Masonic meetings be characterized?
MEMBER
OF FOREIGN JURISDICTION
601.
How may an unworthy brother of a foreign jurisdiction be dealt with?
MEMBERSHIP
602.
What is the status of a Mason who has withdrawn from his Lodge?
MEMBERSHIP, postponement of
603.
How may an elected Master Mason postpone signing the by‑laws?
MENTAL
QUALIFICATIONS OF CANDIDATES
604.
Is a candidate for Masonry required to possess a liberal education?
MERCENARY MOTIVES
605.
What motives in appealing for membership do Masons regard as mercenary?
MERIDIAN SUN
606.
Why is the Junior Warden's station in the south?
MERIT
607.
What alone entitled one to preferment at the building of King Solomon's
Temple?
METAL
608.
Why does a candidate find himself divested of all metals?
MILITARY LODGES
609.
What part have military Lodges had in Freemasonry?
46 MASONRY DEFINED
MINERVA
610.
How is wisdom commonly personified?
MINUTE
BOOK
611.
What records must be kept by a Masonic Lodge?
MISCONDUCT
612.
What is the penalty for misconduct in a Lodge?
MISCONDUCT OF ENTERED APPRENTICES
613.
How may an Entered Apprentice forfeit his rights?
MODERATION
614.
Why should moderation prevail in the government of a Lodge?
MONITOR
615.
What is contained in a Masonic Monitor?
MORAL
ARCHITECTS
616.
As moral Architects, what are Masons taught?
MORAL
DUTIES
617.
What are the moral duties of a Mason?
MORALITY
618.
What are the moral privileges of Masonry?
MORAL
LAW
619.
What are the characteristics of the moral law?
MORAL
PHILOSOPHY
620.
What is the moral philosophy of Masonry?
MORAL
QUALIFICATIONS
621.
What moral qualifications are required in a candidate for membership in
Masonry?
MORAL
QUALIFICATIONS OF A MASTER
622.
What should be the moral qualifications of the Master of a Lodge?
MORIAH
623.
Why was the Temple built on Mount Moriah?
MOSAIC
PAVEMENT
624.
Of what is the mosaic pavement emblematic?
MOSES
625.
Whence did Moses derive his wisdom?
MOSQUE
OF OMAR, or the noble sanctuary
626.
What building now occupies the site of King Solomon's temple?
MASONRY DEFINED 47
MOST
WORSHIPFUL
627.
What is the proper title of a Grand Master of a Grand Lodge?
MOTIONS
628.
What is the effect of frequent divisions in a Lodge?
MOTIVES OF APPLICANT
629.
What should be one's motive for seeking admission to a Lodge?
MOUTH
TO EAR
630.
What is the symbolism of mouth to ear?
MOVABLE JEWELS
631.
What are the movable jewels of a Lodge?
MYSTERIES
632.
Is there any secret religion in Freemasonry?
MYSTIC
TIE
633.
What is the mystic tie?
NAME
FOR A LODGE
634.
What right has a Masonic Lodge with respect to its official title?
NATURE
OF GRAND LODGE
635.
What is the nature of a Grand Lodge?
NEGATIVE
636.
What penalties safeguard the secrecy of the ballot?
NEGRO
LODGES
637.
Where did the Negroes get their work?
NEIGHBOR
638.
What is the Mason's duty toward his neighbor?
NEUTRAL
639.
Are all Lodge members true Masons?
NE
VARIETUR
640.
Why are Masons required to affix their signatures to traveling certificates?
NEW
LAW
641.
What limitations are fixed upon new Masonic legislation?
NIGHT
642.
Why do Lodges commonly meet at night?
NOMINATION
643.
Are nominations of Masonic officers lawful?
48 MASONRY DEFINED
NON‑AFFILIATION
644.
What is the effect of non‑affiliation upon the status of a Mason?
NON‑AFFILIATION IN RELATION TO LODGE
645.
What is the effect of non‑affiliation on the relation of a Mason to his Lodge?
NON‑RESIDENTS
646.
Does a Lodge have power to make Masons of residents of other jurisdictions?
NORTH‑EAST CORNER
647.
Why are candidates placed in the north‑east corner?
NOTICE
648.
How much time must elapse between the return of a petition and final action
thereon?
OBEDIENCE
649.
What is the Masonic duty of obedience and how is it safe‑guarded?
OBELISK
650.
What is an obelisk?
OBJECTION TO THE ADMISSION OF A VISITOR
651.
Has a member of a Lodge the right to object to the admission of a visitor?
OBJECTS
652.
What are some of the principal objects of Freemasonry?
OBJECTIONS
653.
What objections have been made to Masonry?
OBLATIONS
654.
What oblations were made toward the building of the Tabernacle?
OBLIGATION
655.
Can a Masonic obligation be enforced by the courts of law?
OBLONG
656.
Of what was the Tabernacle a type?
OFFERINGS, the three Grand
657.
Where were the three grand offerings of Freemasonry offered up?
OFFICE
658.
Why should the officers of a Lodge be chosen for merit?
MASONRY DEFINED 49
OFFICE
OF DEACON
659.
What is the origin of the office of Deacon?
OFFICE
OF GRAND MASTER
660.
Can the office of Grand Master of Masons be abolished by a Grand Lodge?
OFFICERS
661.
What are the powers of a Lodge with reference to election of its officers?
OFFICERS OF A GRAND LODGE
662.
What are the usual officials of a Grand Lodge?
OFFICERS OF A LODGE
663.
What are the usual officials of a Lodge?
OIL
664.
Of what is oil emblematic?
OPENING AND CLOSING THE LODGE
665.
Who has the prerogative of opening and closing a Masonic Lodge?
OPENING OF THE LODGE
666.
Why should a Lodge always be opened in due form?
OPERATIVE MASONRY
667.
What is the difference between operative and speculative Masonry?
OPINIONS
668.
Are opinions adverse to Masonry justifiable?
ORATOR
669.
What are the duties of a Masonic Orator?
ORDER
670.
In what sense is Freemasonry called an Order?
ORDER
OF BUSINESS
671.
What is the customary order of business in the Lodge?
ORGANIZATION OF GRAND LODGE
672.
How many Lodges are required to open a new Grand Lodge?
ORIENT
673.
What Latin word is sometimes used in place of the word "East"?
ORIENTAL CHAIR OF SOLOMON
674.
What is the Oriental chair?
50 MASONRY DEFINED
ORIGINAL JURISDICTION
675.
In what classes of cases does a Grand Lodge exercise original jurisdiction?
ORIGINAL POINTS
676.
What are the original points of Masonry?
ORNAMENTS OF A LODGE
677.
What are the ornaments of a Lodge?
ORNAN
678.
From whom did King David purchase the site of the Temple?
OUT OF
THE LODGE
679.
How should a Mason distinguish himself when out of the Lodge?
PALESTINE
680.
What relation has Masonry to Palestine?
PARROT
MASONS
681.
Who are called "parrot Masons"?
PARTS
682.
What was the old name for degrees?
PASSED
683.
What word is applied to the advancement of an Entered Apprentice to the
Fellowcra f t degree?
PASSWORDS
684.
In what language are the passwords of Masonry?
PAST
MASTER
685.
What is the status of a Past Master?
PAST
MASTERS, actual and virtual
686.
What is the distinction between an actual and a virtual Past Master?
PAST
MASTER'S DEGREE
687.
What investure is necessary to the installation of a Master of a Lodge?
PAST
MASTER'S DEGREE NOT ESSENTIAL TO WARDENS
688.
Has a Warden the right to receive the secrets of the Chair?
PAST
MASTER'S RIGHT OF PRESIDING
689.
Under what circumstances does a Past Master have the right of presiding over a
Lodge?
PAST
MASTER'S, rights of
690.
What are the privileges and prerogatives of a Past Master?
MASONRY DEFINED 51
PATIENCE
691.
What will enable us to accomplish all things?
PAVEMENT
692.
Of what is the Mosaic pavement emblematic?
PEACE
693.
Why are Freemasons devoted to the cause of peace?
PEDESTAL
694.
What is the form of the Altar?
PENAL
695.
What does the penal sign symbolize?
PENAL
JURISDICTION OF A LODGE
696.
What is the penal jurisdiction of a symbolic Lodge over its members?
PENAL
JURISDICTION OVER AFFILIATED MASONS
697.
What Lodge has penal jurisdiction over affiliated Masons?
PENAL
JURISDICTION OVER UNAFFILIATED MASONS
698.
What Lodge may lawfully exercise penal jurisdiction over an unaffiliated
Mason?
PENALTIES OF HIGHER BODIES
699.
How does suspension or expulsion from a Royal Arch Chapter, or other so‑called
higher bodies, affect the status of a Master Mason in a symbolic Lodge?
PENALTY
700.
How can the penalties of the Masonic obligation be justified?
PENITENTIAL
701.
What is the penitential sign?
PENNY
702.
What was the value of the penny in former times?
PERFECT ASHLAR
703.
Of what is the perfect ashlar emblematic?
PERMANENT EXCLUSION
704.
What is the nature and effect of permanent exclusion from a Lodge?
PERPENDICULAR
705.
How should a Mason carry himself before the world?
PERSECUTION
706.
What accusations have been made against Masons.
2 MASONRY DEFINED
PERSECUTION
707.
What great religious body has persecuted Masonry?
PERSONAL JURISDICTION OF A LODGE
708.
What is the Masonic meaning of the phrase, "Personal jurisdiction"?
PERSONAL MERIT
709.
On what grounds should Masters and Wardens be chosen?
PETITION
710.
In what form must a petition be presented?
PETITION FOR AFFILIATION
711.
To what Lodges may a Master Mason present a petition for affiliation?
PETITION FOR A NEW LODGE
712.
What seven steps must be taken to form a lawful petition for a dispensation
for a new Lodge?
PHILOSOPHY OF MASONRY
713.
What does the philosophy of Masonry involve?
PHRASES OF ADMISSION
714.
What are the several phrases of admission into Masonic degrees?
PHYSICAL
715.
What are the physical qualifications of a candidate for Masonry?
PILLARS OF THE PORCH
716.
What do the pillars, Boaz and Jachin, represent?
PLACE
OF MEETING
717.
What authority has a Lodge with respect to its place of meeting?
PLANS
718.
Of what is the Tracing board emblematic?
PLENTY
719.
What are the Masonic emblems of plenty?
PLOTS
720.
What should be the Master Mason's attitude toward the State?
PLUMB
RULE
721.
Of what is the plumb rule emblematic?
MASONRY DEFINED 53
PLURAL
MEMBERSHIP
722.
May a Mason lawfully belong to more than one Lodge at the same time?
POLITICAL QUALIFICATIONS
723.
Why is a candidate for Masonry required to be freeborn?
POLITICS
724.
Why is a political discussion prohibited in a Masonic Lodge?
POMEGRANATE, grained apple
725.
Of what is the pomegranate emblematic?
POSTPONEMENT OF INSTALLATION
726.
If installation of officers is postponed, what steps must be taken, and who
presides in the interval?
POT OF
INCENSE
727.
Of what is the pot of incense emblematic?
POWERS
OF A LODGE
728.
What are the powers and prerogatives of a Masonic Lodge, and whence are they
derived?
POWERS
OF GRAND LODGE
729.
Into what three categories may the powers of a Grand Lodge be divided?
POWER
TO OPEN THE LODGE
730.
Who has the power to open the Lodge in the absence of the Master?
PRAYER
731.
As Masons, what is the first lesson we are taught?
PREJUDICE
732.
From what do most of the objections to Masonry arise?
PREPARATION OF THE CANDIDATE
733.
Why is a candidate specially prepared for admission to the Lodge room?
PREPARING BROTHER
734.
Upon whom devolves the duty of questioning the candidate as to his motives in
petitioning for membership?
PREROGATIVES OF GRAND MASTER
735.
From what source does a Grand Master derive his prerogatives?
PRESIDING OFFICERS
736.
What are the powers of the presiding officer of a Lodge?
54 MASONRY DEFINED
PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
737.
Who are the principal officers of a Lodge?
PRINTED WORKS ON MASONRY
738.
Is it forbidden to publish books about Masonry?
PRISONS
739.
Is it permissible to conduct a Masonic Lodge within precincts of a prison?
PRIVATE DUTIES
740.
What private duties should Masons practice?
PRIVILEGES
741.
What are the privileges of a Masonic Lodge?
PROBATION
742.
What is the probationary period for a candidate?
PROCEDURE OF GRAND LODGE ON APPEALS
743.
What proceedings are taken by Grand Lodge on Masonic appeals?
PROFANE
744.
How do Masons employ the word "profane"?
PROFANE, charges preferred by
745.
Has a non‑Mason the right of preferring charges against a Mason?
PROFICIENCY OF ENTERED APPRENTICES
746.
How soon after receiving the first degree can an Entered Apprentice apply for
advancement to the second?
PROMISE
747.
Of what force and validity is the Masonic covenant?
PROPOSING
748.
What precaution should be taken before proposing a candidate?
PROTECTION
749.
Why were emblems and symbols originally employed?
PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER
750.
What are the office and functions of a Provincial Grand Master?
PROXY
751.
What rules should govern the choice of Masonic proxies?
PRUDENCE
752.
Why should a Mason cultivate prudence?
MASONRY DEFINED 55
PUBLICITY
753.
Is there anything in Masonry contrary to public policy?
PUNISHMENT
754.
What is the nature and theory of Masonic punishments?
PURITY
755.
What color has always been considered an emblem of purity?
PURPLE
756.
What color do Grand Lodge officers wear?
PYTHAGORAS
757.
What has Freemasonry derived from the teachings of Pythagoras?
PYTHAGORAS, symbols of
758.
What symbols has Masonry borrowed from Pythagoras?
QUALIFICATIONS OF CANDIDATES
759.
What are the qualifications of a candidate for Masonry?
QUALIFICATIONS OF CANDIDATES, bodily
760.
What are the physical qualifications of a candidate for Masonry?
QUARRELING
761.
Why should Masons avoid quarreling?
QUEEN
ELIZABETH
762.
What action did Queen Elizabeth take with regard to Masonry?
QUESTIONING CANDIDATES
763.
What is the duty of the Secretary in the preparation room?
QUESTION OF PUNISHMENT
764.
In the event of a verdict of guilty on charges, how are the nature and extent
of punishment determined?
RAISED
765.
What does the Masonic term "raised" signify?
READING CHARGES
766.
Is it lawful to read charges against a Master at a special communication of
Lodge?
READING PETITION
767.
May a petition for membership be read at a special communication?
RECOGNITION, sign or signs, word or grip
768.
How may Masons recognize each other?
56 MASONRY DEFINED
RECOMMENDATION
769.
How many Master Masons are required to sign a petition for membership?
EIE‑CONSIDERATION
OF BALLOT
770.
Who may order a reconsideration of ballot?
RECORDS OF THE LODGE
771.
What is the duty of the Secretary with reference to the Lodge records?
RE‑ELECTION OF MASTER
772.
Is a Past Master eligible for re‑election as Master of the Lodge?
REFRESHMENT
773.
What is the Masonic meaning of "refreshment"?
REFRESHMENT, charge of
774.
Who has charge of the Lodge during the period of refreshment?
REFUSAL OF ADMISSION
775.
Has the Master the right to refuse an affiliated Mason admission to his Lodge?
REFUSAL TO SERVE
776.
Can a member duly elected to an office in a Lodge lawfully refuse to serve?
REGULARITY
777.
How can a Mason prove his regularity?
RE‑INSTALLATION
778.
Should a Master who succeeds himself be re‑installed?
REINSTATED
779.
How can an expelled Mason be reinstated?
REJECTED CANDIDATE
780.
Has a rejected candidate the right to repeat his application? If so, after
what length of time?
REJECTION
781.
Can a rejected candidate renew his petition?
REJECTION OF A PETITION FOR AFFILIATION
782.
What is the effect of the rejection of a petition for affiliation on the
Masonic status of the applicant?
RELIEF
783.
What Master Mason's profession is the most important tenet?
MASONRY DEFINED 5?
RELIEF,
limitations of
784.
What limitations are placed on Masonic relief?
RELIEF
OF APPRENTICES
785.
Are Entered Apprentices entitled to Masonic relief?
RELIEF, right of
786.
Upon what ground is based the Masonic right of relief?
RELIGION OF MASONRY
787.
In what sense, if any, is Masonry a religion?
REMOVAL OF DEACONS
788.
Has the Master the right to remove a Deacon from his office?
RENEWAL OF APPLICATION
789.
Has a rejected candidate the right to petition another Lodge for membership?
RENEWAL OF APPLICATION FOR ADVANCEMENT
790.
Under what conditions may an applicant for advancement renew his petition?
RENOUNCING MASONS
791.
To whom was the term "renouncing Masons" applied?
RENUNCIATION
792.
What ceremony did the Jews observe when renouncing a bargain?
REPEAL
793.
Can a resolution adopted by a Lodge be repealed?
REPEAL
OR SUSPENSION OF GRAND LODGE BY‑LAWS
794.
In what manner may the by‑laws of a Grand Lodge be repealed or suspended?
REPORT
OF COMMITTEE ON PETITIONS
795.
What is the effect of an unfavorable report by a committee on a petition for
membership?
REPRESENTATION AT GRAND LODGE
796.
What right has a Lodge with reference to representation at Grand Lodge?
REPRESENTATION AT GRAND LODGE BY LODGE UNDER DISPENSATION
797.
May a Lodge under dispensation be represented in Grand Lodge?
58 MASONRY DEFINED
REPRESENTATION OF MASTER AT GRAND LODGE
798.
Does the Master possess the exclusive right to represent his Lodge at the
Grand Lodge?
REPRESENTATION OF WARDENS AT GRAND LODGE
799.
Are the Wardens members of the Grand Lodge?
REPRESENTATIVES, Grand Lodge
800.
What is the system of representation of Grand Lodges?
REPRIMAND
801.
What is the nature and effect of Masonic reprimand?
RESIDENCE
802.
To what particular Lodge is a candidate required to present his petition?
RESIDENCE, temporary
803.
May a candidate residing temporarily in another than his home state appeal to
a local Lodge for membership?
RESPECTABILITY
804.
Why should Masons take care to observe the dictates of respectability?
RESPONSE
805.
What is the proper response to all Masonic prayers?
RESPONSIBILITY OF GRAND MASTER
806.
To whom is the Grand Master responsible?
RESTORATION
807.
What is the Masonic definition of the term "restoration"?
RESTORATION AFTER INDEFINITE SUSPENSION
808.
How may a brother, indefinitely suspended, be restored to membership in his
Lodge?
RESTORATION BY APPEAL
809.
Does the restoration of a brother by a Grand Lodge on appeal restore him to
membership in his Lodge?
RESTORATION FROM DEFINITE SUSPENSION
810.
When does restoration from definite suspension take place?
RESTORATION FROM DEFINITE SUSPENSION, vote on
811.
How is restoration of a brother from definite suspension brought about?
RESTORATION FROM EXPULSION
812.
Does the restoration by Grand Lodge of an expelled Mason reinstate him as a
member of his former Lodge?
MASONRY DEFINED 59
RESTORATION ON APPEAL
813.
What procedure should be observed in seeking restoration from definite or
indefinite suspension by appeal?
RESURRECTION
814.
Of what is the tracing board emblematic?
RETURNS
815.
How often must a Lodge make returns to the Grand Lodge?
REVELS
816.
What is the character of Masonic communication?
REVERENTIAL
817.
Why should Masons be reverent?
REVOCATION OF WARRANT
818.
In whom is the power of revoking warrants of constitution vested?
RIGHT
ANGLE
819.
Of what is the right angle emblematic?
RIGHT
HAND
820.
What is the symbolism of the right hand?
RIGHT
OF APPEAL
821.
What is the basis of the right of appeal?
RIGHT
OF BURIAL
822.
To whom is the right of Masonic burial confined?
RIGHT
OF VISITATION
823.
What regulations govern the right of visitation in a Masonic Lodge?
RIGHTS
AND POWERS OF A MASONIC LODGE
824.
What are the rights and powers of a Masonic Lodge?
RIGHT
SIDE AND LEFT SIDE
825.
What is the symbolism of the right and left sides?
RIGHTS
OF MASTER MASONS
826.
What are the principal rights of a Master Mason in good standing in a Masonic
Lodge?
RISING
SUN
827.
What does the Worshipful Master represent?
RITUAL
828.
Whence do we derive our ritual?
ROYAL
ARCH
829.
What is the final degree of Ancient Craft Masonry?
60 MASONRY DEFINED
ROYAL
ARCH PAST MASTER
830.
What is the function of the past Master's degree of the Royal Arch?
ROYAL
ART
831.
Why is Masonry called the Royal Art?
RUFFIANS
832.
Whence were the names of the three ruffians derived?
RULE
833.
Of what is the rule emblematic?
RULES
OF ORDER
834.
What is the status of parliamentary law in Masonic Lodges?
SACRED
835.
How does the word "sacred" apply to Masonry?
SACRED
LODGE
836.
What is the legendary sacred Lodge?
ST.
JOHN'S MASONRY
837.
When did the first three degrees receive the name of St. John's Masonry?
ST.
JOHN THE BAPTIST
838.
Who was St. John the Baptist?
ST.
JOHN THE EVANGELIST
839.
Who was St. John the Evangelist?
SAINTS
JOHN, festivals of
840.
On what days occur the feasts of the two Saints John?
SAINTS
JOHN LODGES
841.
What was the Lodge of Saints John?
SALT
842.
Of what is salt the emblem?
SANCTUARY
843.
What part of the Temple was called the sanctuary?
SCARLET
844.
Of what is the color scarlet emblematic?
SCIENCE
845.
As a science, what does Freemasonry embrace?
SCRIPTURES, reading of the
846.
What passages of scripture are most appropriate for reading in Lodge?
MASONRY DEFINED 61
SCYTHE
847.
Of what is the scythe emblematic?
SEAL
OF SOLOMON
848.
What was the legendary virtue of the Seal of Solomon?
SEAT
IN THE EAST
849.
To what seat of honor is a past Master entitled?
SECOND
DEGREE
850.
What are the teachings of the second degree?
SECRECY
851.
Why do Freemasons enjoin and practice secrecy?
SECRECY AND SILENCE
852.
What did the Ancients teach regarding secrecy and silence?
SECRECY OF BALLOT
853.
Why are candidates for Masonry not elected viva voce?
SECRETARY
854.
What are the qualifications of a Secretary of a Lodge?
SECRETARY, compensation of
855.
Is it lawful to reimburse the Secretary for the performance of his duties?
SECRETARY, duties of
856.
What are the duties of the Secretary?
SECRETS OF THE CHAIR
857.
Can a Master lawfully preside over a Lodge without having received the secrets
of the chair?
SECRET
SOCIETIES
858.
Is Masonry a secret society?
SEEK
859.
Why should a Mason seek religion?
SELF
INTEREST
860.
Why should a Mason practice brotherly love?
SELF
KNOWLEDGE
861.
Why should a Mason strive for self knowledge?
SENIOR
DEACON
862.
Whose duty is it to carry messages and orders for the Master of a Lodge?
SENIOR
WARDEN
863.
What are the duties of the Senior Warden?
62 MASONRY DEFINED
SENSES
864.
In what degree are the five senses explained?
SERVITUDE
865.
What was the usual period of apprenticeship among operative Masons?
SETTING MAUL
866.
Of what is the Setting Maul an emblem?
SETTING SUN
867.
What was the duty of the Senior Warden at the close of day?
SEX
868.
Why does Masonry deny admission to women?
SHARP
INSTRUMENT
869.
How did our ancient brethren make use of the sword?
SHEEP
870.
Of what are sheep emblematic?
SHIBBOLETH
871.
What does the word "shibboleth" signify?
SHOE
872.
What is the symbolism of the shoe in Masonry?
SHOVEL
873.
Of what is the shovel an emblem?
SIGN
OF DISTRESS
874.
Is the Grand Hailing Sign the same in all jurisdictions?
SILENCE
875.
Why should a Mason cultivate silence?
SILVER
CORD
876.
Of what is the silver cord an emblem?
SINCERITY
877.
Why should Masons be sincere?
SITUATION
878.
How is a Masonic Lodge situated?
SLANDER
879.
What is the Masonic definition of slander?
SLINKING
880.
How can a Lodge protect itself against imposters?
MASONRY DEFINED 63
SOCIAL
DUTIES OF A MASTER
881.
What are the social duties of the Master of a Lodge?
SOCIETY
882.
What are the advantages of being a Mason?
SORROW
LODGE
883.
What is a lodge of sorrow?
SOUTH
884.
Why is the Junior Warden stationed in the South?
SPECULATIVE
885.
On what is the Masonic system founded?
SQUARE
AND COMPASSES
886.
What is the symbolism of the square and compasses?
STAND
TO AND ABIDE BY
887.
What is the duty of a Mason with respect to the laws of Masonry?
STATUTES OR DUTIES
888.
What should the by‑laws of a Lodge contain?
STEP
889.
In each step in Masonry, with what is the candidate presented?
STEWARDS, duties of
890.
What are the duties of the Stewards?
STONE
SQUARERS
891.
Who were the Masters and Wardens of the Lodges of Masons during the building
of King Solomon's Temple?
STRENGTH
892.
What is one of the three principal supports of a Lodge?
STRICT
TRIAL
893.
What is the Masonic meaning of the expression "strict trial"?
SUBLIME
894.
Why is the third called the sublime degree of Masonry?
SUBMISSION
895.
What are the tests of Masonic obedience?
SUBSTITUTE WORD
896.
Of what is the substitute word a symbol?
SUCCESSION IN OFFICE OF GRAND MASTER
897.
What is the order of succession in event of the death or disability of the
Grand Master?
64 MASONRY DEFINED
SUCCESSION OF GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
898.
Who takes the place of the Grand Master or Grand Warden in the event of his
absence from a session of the Grand Lodge?
SUCCESSION TO THE CHAIR
899.
Who succeeds to the chair in the absence or disability of the Master?
SUCCESSOR, installation of
900.
What is the prerogative of a Past Master with reference to his successor?
SUCCESSOR TO GRAND MASTER
901.
What are the prerogatives of a Deputy Grand Master or a Grand Warden, when
acting pro tempore as Grand Master?
SUMMONS
902.
What should a summons contain?
SUN
903.
Why does the Worshipful Master sit in the East?
SURRENDER OF WARRANT
904.
Has the Lodge power to surrender its warrant without the consent of the
Master?
SURRENDER OF WARRENT
905.
By what process does a newly organized Grand Lodge issue authority over its
constituent Lodges?
SUSPENSION
906.
What is the Masonic meaning of the word "suspension"?
SUSPENSION OF BY‑LAWS
907.
May a Lodge lawfully suspend its by‑laws?
SUSPENSION OF MASTER
908.
In whom does the power of suspending a Master of a Lodge reside?
SWEDENBORG, rite of
909.
Who was Emanuel Swedenborg? What was the rite of Swedenborg?
SWORD
POINTING TO THE NAKED HEART
910.
Of what are the sword and naked heart emblematic?
SWORDS
911.
Of what is the sword emblematic?
MASONRY DEFINED 65
SWORD,
Tiler's
912.
What should be the shape of the Tiler's sword?
SYMBOL
913.
What is the nature of symbolism?
TABERNACLE
914.
What is the symbolism of the Jewish tabernacle?
TACITURNITY
915.
Why should Masons set a guard upon their lips?
TALMUD
916.
What is the Talmud and what is its relation to Freemasonry?
TASSELS
917.
Of what do the four tassels pendant to the corners of the Lodge remind us?
TAXATION OF UNAFFILIATED MASONS
918.
Is an unaffiliated Mason liable to Masonic taxation?
TAXING
POWER OF GRAND LODGE
919.
What is the prerogative of the Grand Lodge with respect to levying taxes upon
the Fraternity?
TEACHINGS, symbolic of the degrees
920.
What are the symbolic teachings of Freemasonry?
TEMPERANCE
921.
Why should Masons be temperate?
TEMPLE
922.
What is the origin and history of the custom of building temples?
TEMPLE
OF HEROD THE GREAT
923.
What relation had the temple of Herod to Freemasonry?
TEMPLE
OF SOLOMON
924.
What was the design of Solomon's temple?
TEMPLE, symbolism of the
925.
To the Master Mason, of what is King Solomon's temple a symbol?
TEMPORARY EXCLUSION
926.
What is the Masonic meaning of temporary exclusion from a Lodge?
TENURE
OF GRAND LECTURER
927.
What should be the tenure of office of a Grand Lecturer?
66 MASONRY DEFINED
TESSELATED PAVEMENT
928.
Of what is the tesselated pavement emblematic?
TESTIMONY
929.
Is it lawful for a Profane to testify in a Masonic trial?
TETRAGRAMMATON
930.
What powers do the Jews attribute to the lost word?
THEOLOGICAL VIRTUES
931.
Why should Masons practice the virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity?
THEORY
932.
What does the theory and practice of Masonry include?
THEOSOPHISTS
933.
Who are called Theosophists?
THIRD
DEGREE
934.
What are the teachings of the third degree of Masonry?
THIRD
DEGREE, rights conferred by
935.
What right does a Master Mason acquire on the reception of the third degree?
THREE
936.
Why is the figure three (3) considered a sacred word in Masonry?
THREE
GRAND OFFERINGS
937.
What were the three grand o f, f erings of Masonry?
THREE
SENSES
938.
What three senses are essential to becoming a Mason?
THREE
STEPS
939.
Of what are the three steps emblematic?
THRESHING FLOOR
940.
What is the symbolism of the threshing floor?
TILE
941.
What is the meaning of the word "tile"?
TILER
942.
What are the qualifications of the Tiler?
TILER,
duties of
943.
What are the duties of the Tiler?
TILER,
privileges of
944.
What rights of membership may a Tiler exercise?
MASONRY DEFINED 67
TILER'S OATH
945.
What is the Tiler's oath or obligation?
TIME
OF MEETING
946.
What power has a Lodge with respect to fixing and changing its time of
meeting?
TIME
OF OPENING AND CLOSING THE LODGE
947.
Who has the prerogative of determining the time of opening and closing a
communication of a Lodge?
TOKENS
948.
What part do words, signs and tokens play in Masonry?
TONGUE
OF GOOD REPORT
949.
What does it mean to be under the "tongue of good report"?
TRAITOR
950.
Can a word or grip betray the secrets of Freemasonry?
TRAMPING MASONS
951.
Who are called tramping Masons?
TRANSFERRING
952.
If a Lodge be dissolved, what becomes of its charter?
TRANSIENT BRETHREN
953.
Who are called transient brethren?
TRAVEL
954.
In what sense is the word "travel" used in the symbolic language of Masonry?
TRAVELING FREEMASONS
955.
Who were the traveling Freemasons of the middle ages?
TREASON AND REBELLION
956.
Can Masonic charges be founded on acts of treason and rebellion?
TREASURER, duties of
957.
What are the duties of the Treasurer?
TRESTLE‑BOARD
958.
What is the Masonic trestle‑board?
TRIAD
959.
Of what is the Triad emblematic?
TRIALS, Masonic
960.
How are Masonic trials conducted?
68 MASONRY DEFINED
TRIBE
OF JUDAH, lion of the
961.
What is the symbolism of the lion of Judah?
TROWEL
962.
Of what is the trowel emblematic?
TROWEL
AND SWORD
963.
What is the symbolism of the trowel and sword?
TRUE
964.
Why should a Mason be truthful?
TRUST
IN GOD
965.
In whom do Masons put their trust?
TRUTH
966.
What is the real end and aim of all Masonic labors and ceremonies?
TUBAL
CAIN
967.
What four children founded the beginning of all the sciences in the world?
TUSCAN
968.
What is the first and simplest form of architecture?
TWENTY‑FOUR INCH RULE
969.
Of what is the twenty‑four inch rule emblematic?
UNAFFILIATED MASONS
970.
What are the status and rights of unaffiliated Masons?
UNAFFILIATED MASONS, status of
971.
What are the status and rights of unaffiliated Masons?
UNAFFILIATES
972.
Does an unaffiliated Mason enjoy the privilege of Masonic visitation?
UNANIMITY OF BALLOT
973.
Why is the ballot required to be unanimous?
UNANIMOUS
974.
When is the ballot unanimous?
UNANIMOUS CONSENT
975.
What is called the bulwark of Masonry?
UNFAVORABLE REPORT
976.
Should a ballot be taken on an unfavorable report?
UNIFORMITY
977.
Why should Masons observe the same usages and customs?
MASONRY DEFINED 69
UNOCCUPIED TERRITORY
978.
How may the Masonic system be extended to unoccupied territory?
UNWORTHY MEMBERS
979.
What should be the attitude of the craft toward unworthy brethren?
UPPER
CHAMBER
980.
Why are Lodges held in upper chambers?
UPRIGHT POSTURE
981.
What is the symbolism of the upright posture?
USAGES
982.
To what do the usages and customs of Masons correspond?
VACANCY IN THE OFFICE OF MASTER
983.
Can the office of Master be filled by an election in the event of his death or
disability?
VACATION OF LODGE OFFICERS
984.
May an officer of a Lodge, duly elected and installed, law‑fully resign his
office?
VACATION OF OFFICE OF TILER
985.
How may a Tiler be removed from office?
VERDICT, announcement of
986.
When and where must the verdict in a Lodge trial be rendered?
VERDICT, how arrived at
987.
How is the verdict at a Masonic trial arrived at?
VERDICT OF A GRAND LODGE ON APPEAL
988.
What forms may the verdict of a Grand Lodge on appeal take in the settlement
of an appeal?
VIOLATION OF MASONIC LANDMARKS AND REGULATIONS
989.
What violations of Masonic landmarks and regulations may subject a Mason to
Masonic discipline?
VIRTUES
990.
What virtues does Masonry inculcate?
VISITATION
991.
What rights has a Grand Master or his representative in a subordinate Lodge?
VISITATION, Grand Master's prerogative of
992.
What is the prerogative of a Grand Master with respect to a Masonic
visitation?
70 MASONRY DEFINED
VISIT,
right of
993.
Has a Mason the right to visit any Lodge where he may happen to be?
VOTE
OF MASTER
994.
Does the Master of a Lodge have the right to cast more than one vote?
VOTING
ON A BALLOT
995.
Why is every member present required to vote when the ballot is taken?
VOUCH
996.
Under what circumstances is a voucher demanded?
VOUCHING FOR STRANGERS
997.
Has an Entered Apprentice or Fellowcra f t the right of vouching for a
visitor?
WAGES
OF A MASON
998.
What are the wages of a Mason?
WARDENS
999.
What is the origin of the office of Wardens?
WARRANT
1000.
What was the origin of Masonic warrants?
WARRANT OF CONSTITUTION, granting of
1001.
What is the difference between a dispensation and a warrant?
WARRANT OF CONSTITUTION, nature of
1002.
What right has a Lodge with respect to its warrant of constitution?
WARRANT OF CONSTITUTION, right to
1003.
What is the prerogative of Grand Lodges with respect to issuing warrants of
constitution?
WEEPING VIRGIN
1004.
Of what is the Weeping Virgin emblematic?
WELL
FORMED, TRUE AND TRUSTY
1005.
What formula is used by the Grand Master at the laying of a corner stone?
WEST
1006.
What is the symbolism of the west?
WHITE
1007.
Of what is the color white emblematic?
MASONRY DEFINED 71
WIDOWS
AND ORPHANS
1008.
What rules apply to the relief of Masonic widows and orphans?
WIDOWS
OF MASONS
1009.
Under what circumstances does the widow of a Mason forfeit her claim to
Masonic relief?
WIDOW'S SON
1010.
Who was called the "Widow's son" and why?
WINDING STAIRCASE
1011.
Of what is the winding staircase emblematic?
WINDING STAIRS, legend of the
1012.
What is the legend of the winding stairs?
WISDOM
1013.
How can a Mason acquire wisdom?
WITHDRAWAL FROM MEMBERSHIP
1014.
Is it lawful for a member to demit without making application for membership
in another Lodge?
WITHDRAWAL OF MEMBERS TO FORM A NEW LODGE
1015.
Under what circumstances is it lawful for a number of members to withdraw at
the same time from a Lodge?
WITHDRAWAL OF PETITION
1016.
Is it permissible to withdraw a petition after it has been read?
WORK
OF ANCIENT CRAFT MASONRY
1017.
What regulations govern the right of a Lodge to do the work of Ancient Craft
Masonry?
WORLDLY WEALTH
1018.
Who may knock at the doors of Masonry?
WORSHIP OF GOD
1019.
What is the supreme duty of a Mason?
WORSHIPFUL MASTER
1020.
What is the proper title of a Master of a Lodge, and why?
WORTHY
1021.
What is the Masonic meaning of the word "worthy"?
WRITTEN AVOUCHMENT
1022.
Is it lawful to accept a letter of introduction as an avouchment?
72 MASONRY DEFINED
YEAR
OF MASONRY
1023.
What is the basis of Masonic chronology?
YORK
CONSTITUTION OF 926
1024.
Upon what legend is based the old York Constitution of
926?
ZERUBBABEL
1025.
Who was the builder of the second temple?
MASONRY DEFINED
1 -
Why was Hiram, our ancient Grand Master, called "ABIF?"
Abif. A Hebrew word, signifying "his father." It is often
used in the Scriptures as a title of honor. It was given to Hiram, the Tyrian
builder, probably on account of his distinguished skill.
2 -
How is moral purification symbolized?
Ablution.
Washing, or literally, a washing off, i. e., making one clean from all
pollution. In the ancient mysteries it constituted a part of the preparation
for initiation, and was a symbolical representation of moral purification. The
ceremony is practiced in some of the degrees of the Ancient and Accepted rite.
3 -
What is the ancient rule regarding attendance at Lodge?
Absence.
This term is usually applied to being absent by permission, for a specified
time, during the regular meetings of the Lodge, and in such a manner as not to
interfere with the harmony or working of the body. Long or continued absence
from the Lodge meetings is contrary to the duties inculcated by the ancient
charges of the Order, which prescribe, as a rule, "that no Master or Fellow
could be absent from the Lodge, especially when warned to appear at it,
without incurring a severe censure, unless it appeared to the Master and
Wardens that pure necessity hindered him."
4 -
What is the symbolism of the sprig of Acacia?
Acacia.
An interesting and important symbol in Freemasonry. Botanically, it is the
acacia vera of Tournefort, and the mimosa nilotlea of Linnaeus. It grew
abundantly in the vicinity of Jerusalem, where it is still to be found, and is
familiar in its modern use as the tree from which the gum arabic of commerce
is derived.
The
acacia, which in Scripture, is always called Shittah, and in the plural
Shittim, was esteemed a sacred wood among the Hebrews. Of it Moses was ordered
to make the tabernacle, the ark of the covenant, the table for the shewbread,
and the rest of the sacred furniture. Isaiah, in recounting the promises of
God's mercy to the Israelites on their return from the captivity, tells them
that, among other things, he will plant in the wilderness, for their relief
and refreshment, the cedar, the acacia, the fir and other trees.
73
74 MASONRY DEFINED
The
first thing, then, that we notice in this symbol of the acacia, is that it had
been always consecrated from among the other trees of the forest by the sacred
purposes to which it was devoted. By the Jew, the tree from whose wood the
sanctuary of the tabernacle and the holy ark had been constructed would ever
be viewed as more sacred than ordinary trees. The early Masons, therefore,
very naturally appropriated this hallowed plant to the equally sacred purpose
of a symbol, which was to teach an important divine truth in all ages to come.
Having
thus briefly disposed of the natural history of this plant, we may now proceed
to examine it in its symbolic relations.
First.
The acacia, in the mythic system of Freemasonry, is pre‑eminently the symbol
of the immortality of the soul - that important doctrine which it is the great
design of the institution to teach. As the evanescent nature of the flower,
which "cometh forth and is cut down," reminds us of the transitory nature of
human life, so the perpetual renovation of the evergreen plant, which
uninterruptedly presents the appearance of youth and vigor, is aptly compared
to that spiritual life in which the soul, freed from the corruptible body,
shall enjoy an eternal spring and an immortal youth. Hence, in the impressive
funeral service of our Order, it is said that "this ever‑green is an emblem of
our faith in the immortality of the soul. By this we are reminded that we have
an immortal part within us, which shall survive the grave, and which shall
never, never, never die." And again, in the closing sentences of the
monitorial lecture of the third degree, the same sentiment is repeated, and we
are told that by "the evergreen and the ever‑living sprig" the Mason is
strengthened "with confidence and composure to look forward to a blessed
immortality." Such an interpretation of the symbol is an easy and a natural
one; it suggests itself at once to the least reflective mind; and
consequently, in some one form or another, is to be found existing in all ages
and nations. It was an ancient custom, - which is not, even now, altogether
disused, - for mourners to carry in their hands at funerals a sprig of some
evergreen, generally the cedar or the cypress, and to deposit it in the grave
of the deceased.
But,
lastly, the acacia may also be considered as the symbol of initiation. This is
by far the most interesting of its interpretations, and was, we have every
reason to believe, the primary and original; the others being but incidental.
It leads us at once to the investigation of the significant fact that in all
the ancient initiations and religious mysteries there was some plant peculiar
to each, which was consecrated by its own esoteric meaning, and which occupied
an important position in the celebration of the rites, so that the plant,
whatever it might be, from its constant and prominent use in the
MASONRY DEFINED 75
ceremonies of initiation, came at length to be adopted as the symbol of that
initiation.
Thus,
the lettuce was the sacred plant which assumed the place of the acacia in the
mysteries of Adonis. The lotus was that of the Brahmanical rites of India, and
from them adopted by the Egyptians. The Egyptians also revered the erica or
heath; and the mistletoe was a mystical plant among the Druids. And lastly,
the myrtle performed the same office of symbolism in the mysteries of Greece
that the lotus did in Egypt or the mistletoe among the Druids.
In all
of these ancient mysteries, while the sacred plant was a symbol of initiation,
the initiation itself was symbolic of the resurrection to a future life, and
of the immortality of the soul. In this view, Freemasonry is to us now in the
place of the ancient initiations, and the acacia is substituted for the lotus,
the erica, the ivy, the mistletoe, and the myrtle. The lesson is the same -
the medium of imparting it is all that has been changed.
Returning, then, to the acacia, we find that it is capable of two
explanations. It is a symbol of immortality, and of initiation; but these two
significations are closely connected, and that connection must be observed, if
we desire to obtain a just interpretation of the symbol. Thus, in this one
symbol, we are taught that in the initiation of life, of which the initiation
in the third degree is simply emblematic, innocence must for a time lie in the
grave, at length, how‑ever, to be called, by the word of the Grand Master of
the Universe, to a blissful immortality. Combine with this the recollection of
the place where the sprig of acacia was planted, - Mount Calvary, - the place
of sepulture of him who "brought life and immortality to light," and who, in
Christian Masonry, is designated, as he is in Scripture, as "the lion of the
tribe of Judah;" and remember, too, that in the mystery of his death, the wood
of the cross takes the place of the acacia, and in this little and apparently
insignificant symbol, which is really the most important and significant one
in Masonic science, we have a beautiful suggestion of all the mysteries of
life and death, of time and eternity, of the present and of the future.
5 -
Why are Masons said to be "Free and Accepted?"
Accepted. A term in Freemasonry which is synonymous with
"initiated" or "received into the society." Thus, we find in the Regulations
of 1663, such expressions as these: "No person who shall hereafter be accepted
a Freemason shall be admitted into a lodge or assembly until he has brought a
certificate of the time and place of his acceptation from the Lodge that
accepted him, unto the Master of that limit or division where such Lodge is
kept." The word seems to have been first used in 1663 and, in the Regulations
of that Year: is constantly employed in the place of the olden term "made,"
76 MASONRY DEFINED
as
equivalent to "initiated." This is especially evident in the 6th Regulation,
which says, "that no person shall be accepted unless he be twenty‑one years
old or more;" where accepted clearly means initiated. As the word was
introduced in 1663, its use seems also to have soon ceased, for it is not
found in any subsequent documents until 1738; neither in the Regulations of
1721; nor in the Charges approved in 1722; except once in the latter, where
"laborers and unaccepted Masons" are spoken of as distinguished from and
inferior to "Freemasons." In the Regulations of 1721, the words "made,"
"entered," or "admitted," are constantly employed in its stead. But in 1738,
Anderson, who, in publishing the 2d edition of the Book of Constitutions, made
many verbal alterations which seem subsequently to have been disapproved of by
the Grand Lodge, again introduced the word accepted. Thus, in the 5th of the
Regulations of 1721, which in the edition of 1723 read as follows, "But no man
can be made or admitted a member of a particular Lodge," etc., he changed the
phraseology so as to make the article read: "No man can be accepted a member
of a particular Lodge," etc. And so attached does he appear to have become to
this word that he changed the very name of the Order, by altering the title of
the work, which, in the edition of 1723, was "The Constitutions of
Freemasons," to that of "The Constitutions of the Ancient and Honorable
Society of Free and Accepted Masons." Although many of the innovations of the
edition of
1738
of the Book of Constitutions were subsequently repudiated by the Grand Lodge,
and omitted in succeeding editions, the title of "Free and Accepted Masons"
was retained, and is now more generally used than the older and simpler one of
"Freemasons," to distinguish the society. The word accepted, however, as a
synonym of initiated, has now become obsolete. The modern idea of an accepted
Mason is that he is one distinguished from a purely operative or stone‑mason,
who has not been admitted to the freedom of the company; an idea evidently
intended to be conveyed by the use of the word in the Charges of 1722, already
quoted.
6 -
What is the meaning of "Free Will and Accord?"
Accord. We get this word from two Latin ones ad cor, to the
heart, and hence it means hearty consent. Thus in Wiclif's translation we find
the phrase in Philippians, which in the Authorized Version is "with one
accord," rendered "with one will, with one heart." Such is its significance in
the Masonic formula, "free will and accord," that is "free will and hearty
consent."
7 -
What is the preliminary step in every Masonic trial?
Accusation.
The preliminary step in every trial is the accusation. This, in Masonic
language, is called the charge. The charge
MASONRY DEFINED 77
should
always be made in writing, signed by the accuser, delivered to the Secretary
and read by that officer at the next regular communication of the Lodge. The
accused should then be furnished with an attested copy of the charge, and be
at the same time informed of the time and place appointed by the Lodge for the
trial.
8 -
Who is the prosecuting officer of a Lodge?
Accuser.
In every trial in a Lodge for an offense against the 'laws and regulations or
the principles of Masonry any Master Mason may be the accuser of another, but
a profane cannot be permitted to prefer charges against a Mason. Yet, if
circumstances are known to a profane upon which charges ought to be
predicated, a Master Mason may avail himself of that information, and out of
it frame an accusation to be presented to the Lodge. And such accusation will
be received and investigated, although remotely derived from one who is not a
member of the Order.
It is
not necessary that the accuser should be a member of the same Lodge. It is
sufficient if he is an affiliated Mason; but it is generally held that an
unaffiliated Mason is no more competent to prefer charges than a profane.
In
consequence of the Junior Warden being placed over the Craft during the hours
of refreshment, and of his being charged at the time of his installation to
see "that none of the Craft be suffered to convert the purposes of refreshment
into those of intemperance and excess," it has been very generally supposed
that it is his duty, as the prosecuting officer of the Lodge, to prefer
charges against any member who, by his conduct, has made himself amenable to
the penal jurisdiction of the Lodge. I know of no ancient regulation which
imposes this unpleasant duty upon the Junior Warden; but it does seem to be a
very natural deduction, from his peculiar prerogative as the guardian of the
conduct of the Craft, that in all cases of violation of the law he should,
after due efforts towards producing a reform, be the proper officer to bring
the conduct of the offending brother to the notice of the Lodge.
9 -
Does acquittal of a Mason by a fury prevent his being tried again by a Lodge
on the same charge?
Acquittal.
Under this head it may be proper to discuss two questions of Masonic law. 1.
Can a Mason, having been acquitted by the courts of the country of an offense
with which he has been charged, be tried by his Lodge for the same offense.
And,
2. Can
a Mason, having been acquitted by his Lodge on insufficient evidence, be
subjected, on the discovery and production of new and more complete evidence,
to a second trial for the same offense? To both of these questions the correct
answer would seem to be in the affirmative.
78 MASONRY DEFINED
1. An
acquittal of a crime by a temporal court does not relieve a Mason from an
inquisition into the same offense by his Lodge; for acquittals may be the
result of some technicality of law, or other cause, where, although the party
is relieved from legal punishment, his guilt is still manifest in the eyes of
the community; and if the Order were to be controlled by the action of the
courts, the character of the Institution might be injuriously affected by its
permitting a man, who had escaped without honor from the punishment of the
law, to remain a member of the Fraternity. In the language of the Grand Lodge
of Texas, "an acquittal by a jury, while it may, and should, in some
circumstances, have its influence in deciding on the course to be pursued, yet
has no binding force in Masonry. We decide on our own rules, and our own view
of the facts."
2. To
come to a correct apprehension of the second question, we must remember that
it is a long‑settled principle of Masonic law, that every offense which a
Mason commits is an injury to the whole Fraternity, for the bad conduct of a
single member reflects discredit on the whole Institution. This is a very old
and well‑established principle of the Institution; and hence we find the old
Gothic Constitutions declaring that "a Mason shall harbor no thief or thief's
retainer," and assigning as a reason, "lest the Craft should come to shame."
The safety of the Institution requires that no evil‑disposed member should be
permitted with impunity to bring disgrace on the Craft. And, therefore,
although it is a well‑known maxim of the common law that no one should be
twice placed in peril of punishment for the same crime; yet we must also
remember that ,ither and fundamental maxim - salus populi suprema lax - which
may, in its application to Masonry, be well translated: "the well‑being of the
Order is the first great law." To this everything else must yield; and
therefore if a member, having been accused of a heinous offense and tried,
shall on his trial for want of sufficient evidence be acquitted, or being
convicted shall for the same reason be punished by an inadequate penalty - and
if he shall thus be permitted to remain in the Institution with the stigma of
the crime upon him, "whereby the Craft comes to shame;" then, if new and more
sufficient evidence shall be subsequently discovered, it is just and right
that 'a new trial shall be had, so that he may on this newer evidence receive
that punishment which will vindicate the reputation of the Order. No
technicalities of law, no plea of autre f ois acquit, nor mere verbal
exception, should be allowed for the escape of a guilty member; for so long as
he lives in the Order, every man is subject to its discipline. A hundred
wrongful acquittals of a bad member, who still bears with him the reproach of
his evil life, can never discharge the Order from its paramount duty of
protecting its own good fame and removing the delinquent member from its fold.
To
MASONRY DEFINED 79
this
great duty all private and individual rights and privileges must succumb.
10 -
What action should a Lodge take on receipt of a
favorable report on a petition?
Action on Petition. The petition of the candidate having
been referred to a committee, and that committee having reported favor. ably,
the next step in the process is to submit the petition to the members of the
Lodge for their acceptance or rejection. The law upon which this usage is
founded is contained in the sixth article of the General Regulations of 1721,
which declares that "no man can be entered a Brother in any particular Lodge,
or admitted a member thereof, without the unanimous consent of all the members
of the Lodge then present when the candidate is proposed, and their consent is
formally asked by the Master." No peculiar mode of expressing this opinion is
laid down in any of the ancient Constitutions; on the contrary, the same sixth
article goes on to say that the members "are to signify their consent or
dissent in their own prudent way, either virtually or in form, but with
unanimity." Universal and uninterrupted usage, however, in this country, has
required the votes on the application of candidates to be taken by ballot,
which has been very wisely done, because thereby the secrecy and consequent
independence of election is secured.
11 -
When is a Lodge or brother said to be "active?" Active.. A Lodge is called
active when it assembles regularly; and a brother when he is a working member
of such a lodge. Many brethren visit a lodge who never or very seldom take
part in lodge work, either because they live too far distant from the lodge,
or because they are not sufficiently interested. Every lodge and every officer
ought to strive diligently to make the work interesting to avoid the last
imputation, but if they find their endeavors in vain, or that there is any
brother who will not pay due attention to the work, they ought to endeavor to
reclaim him, first by fraternal remonstrances; or if those do not avail, by
punishment. By the death or removal of the members, a lodge may become
inactive for a time, and it is better that it should be so than that the
continuing of the work should be. entrusted to inexperienced officers.
12 -
What are the prerogatives of the active members of a Lodge?
Active Membership, Prerogatives of.
Every Master Mason, who is a member of a Lodge, has a right to speak and, vote
on all questions that come before the Lodge for discussion, except on trials
in which he is himself interested. Rules of order may be established
80 MASONRY DEFINED
restricting the length and number of speeches, but these are of a local
nature, and will vary with the by‑laws of each Lodge.
A
Mason may also be restricted from voting on ordinary questions where his dues
for a certain period - generally twelve months - have not been paid; and such
a Regulation exists in almost every Lodge. But no local by‑law can deprive a
member who has not been suspended, from voting on the ballot for the admission
of candidates, because the Sixth Regulation of 1721 distinctly requires that
each member present on such occasion shall give his consent before the
candidate can be admitted. And if a member were deprived, by any by‑law of the
Lodge, in consequence of non‑payment of his dues, of the right of expressing
his consent or dissent, the ancient Regulation would be violated, and a
candidate might be admitted without the unanimous consent of all the members
present.
13 -
What President of the United States was a bitter opponent of Free‑masonry?
Adams, John Quincy,
the sixth President of the United States, who served from 1825 to 1829. Mr.
Adams, who has been very properly described as "a man of strong points and
weak ones, of vast reading and wonderful memory, of great credulity and strong
prejudices," became notorious in the latter years of his life for his virulent
opposition to Freemasonry. The writer already quoted, and who had an excellent
opportunity of seeing intimately the workings of the spirit of anti‑Masonry,
says of Mr. Adams: "He hated Free‑masonry, as he did many other things, not
from any harm that he had received from it or personally knew respecting it,
but because his credulity had been wrought upon and his prejudices excited
against it by dishonest and selfish politicians, who were anxious, at any
sacrifice to him, to avail themselves of the influence of his commanding
talents and position in public life to sustain them in the disreputable work
in which they were enlisted. In his weakness, he lent himself to them. He
united his energies to theirs in an impracticable and unworthy cause." The
result was a series of letters abusive of Freemasonry, directed to leading
politicians, and published in the public journals from 1831 to 1833. A year
before his death they were collected and published under the title of "Letters
on the Masonic Institution, by John Quincy Adams." Some ex‑planation of the
cause of the virulence with which Mr. Adams attacked the Masonic Institution
in these letters may be found in the following paragraph contained in an
anti‑Masonic work written by one Henry Gassett, and affixed to his Catalogue
of Books on the Masonic Institution. "It had been asserted in a newspaper in
Boston, edited by a Masonic dignitary, that John Q. Adams was a Mason. In
answer to an inquiry from a person in New York State, whether he was so,
MASONRY DEFINED 81
Mr.
Adams replied that `he was not, and never should be.' " These few words,
undoubtedly, prevented his election a second term as president of the United
States. His competitor, Andrew Jackson, a Freemason, was elected. Whether the
statement contained in the italicized words be true or not, is not the
question. It is sufficient that Mr. Adams was led to believe it, and hence his
ill‑will to an association which had, as he supposed, inflicted this political
evil on him, and baffled his ambitious views.
14 -
What are the qualifications of Lodge officers?
Address.
Those who accept office and exercise authority in the lodge, ought to be men
of prudence and address, enjoying the ad‑vantages of a well‑cultivated mind
and retentive memory. All men are not blessed with the same powers and
talents; all men, therefore, are not equally qualified to govern. He who
wishes to teach must submit to learn; and no one can be qualified to occupy
the higher offices of the lodge who has not previously discharged the duties
of those which are subordinate. Experience is the best preceptor. Every man
may rise by graduation, but merit and industry are the first steps to
preferment.
15 -
What rules govern a brother while speaking in Lodge?
Addressing a Lodge.
No brother shall speak twice to the same question, unless in explanation, or
the mover in reply. Every one who speaks shall rise, and remain standing,
addressing himself to the Master, nor shall any brother presume to interrupt
him, unless he shall be wandering from the point, or the Master shall think
fit to call him to order; but, after he has been set right, he may proceed, if
he observe due order and decorum.
16 -
To whom does the term "Adhering Mason" apply?
Adhering Mason.
Those Masons who, during the anti‑Masonic excitement in this country, on
account of the supposed abduction of Morgan, refused to leave their Lodges and
renounce Masonry were so called. Among their number were some of the wisest,
best and Most influential men of the country.
17‑How
many candidates can be made Masons on the same day?
Admission.
Not more than five new brothers shall be made in tiny one lodge on the same
day, nor any man under the age of twenty‑one years, unless by dispensation
from the Grand Master. Every candidate for admission must be a freeman, and
his own master and, at the time of initiation, be known to be in reputable
circumstances. He should be a lover of the liberal arts and sciences, and have
made some progress in one or another of them.
82 MASONRY DEFINED
18 -
Has a Master the right to deny a member admission to his own Lodge?
Admission of Members.
Coincident with the power of admitting or excluding a visitor from another
Lodge, is that of refusing or consenting to the admission of a member. The
ritual of opening expressly says that none shall "pass or repass but such as
are duly qualified and have the Worshipful Master's permission;" and if the
prerogative of refusing admission to a brother hailing from another Lodge is
vested solely in the Master, that he may be enabled, by this discretionary
power, to maintain the by‑laws and regulations of the Order, and preserve the
harmony of the Lodge, it seems evident that he should be possessed of equal
power in respect to his own members, because it may happen that the admission
even of a member might sometimes create discord, and if the Master is aware
that such would be the result, it must be acknowledged that he would be but
exercising his duty in refusing the admission of such a member. But as this
prerogative affects, in no slight degree, the rights of membership, which
inure to every Mason who has signed the by‑laws, it should be exercised with
great caution; and where a member has been unjustly, or without sufficient
cause, deprived of the right of visiting his own Lodge, there can be no
question that he has the right of preferring charges against the Master in the
Grand Lodge, whose duty it is to punish every arbitrary or oppressive exercise
of prerogative.
19 -
What right has a new Lodge with respect to the admission of members?
Admission of New Members.
The warrant of constitution having been granted permanently and for the
general objects of Masonry, and not for a specific purpose and a prescribed
period, as is the case with Lodges under dispensation, the quality of
perpetuity is granted with it as one of the necessary conditions. But this
perpetuity can only be secured by the admission of new members to supply the
places of those who die or demit. This admission may take place either by the
initiation of profanes, who acquire by that initiation the right of
membership, or by the election of unaffiliated Masons.
20 -
Has a Master of a Lodge the right to decline to admit, as a visitor, a Master
Mason in good standing?
Admission of Visitors.
A prerogative of the Master of a Lodge is that of controlling the admission of
visitors. He is required by his installation charge to see that no visitors be
received without passing a due examination and producing proper vouchers; and
this duty he cannot perform unless the right of judging of the nature of that
examination and of those vouchers be solely vested in him‑self, and the
discretionary power of admission or rejection be placed in his hands. The
Lodge cannot, therefore, interfere with this
MASONRY DEFINED 83
prerogative, nor can the question be put to it whether a particular visitor
shall be admitted. The Master is, in all such cases, the sole judge, without
appeal from his decision.
21 -
What is the duty of the Tiler with reference to the admission of per‑ sons to
a Lodge room?
Admittance to the Lodge.
The first and most important duty of the Tiler is to guard the door of the
Lodge, and to permit no one to pass in who is not duly qualified, and who has
not the permission of the Master. Of these qualifications, in doubtful cases,
he is not himself to judge; but on the approach of any one who is unknown to
him, he should apprize the Lodge by the usual formal method. As the door is
peculiarly under his charge, he should never, for an instant, be absent from
his post. He should neither open the door himself from without, nor permit it
to be opened by the Junior Deacon from within, without the preliminary alarm.
22 -
How should a brother be admonished?
Admonition.
If a brother grossly misconduct himself, let him be admonished privately by
the Worshipful Master; try every gentle means to convince him of his errors;
probe the wound with a delicate hand; and use very mild expedient to work his
reform. Perhaps he may save his brother, and give to society a renewed and
valuable member.
23 -
Who was Adoniram?
Adoniram.
This prince was appointed by King Solomon to super‑intend the contribution
towards building the temple, as well as the levy of 30,000 Israelites to work
by monthly courses in the forest of Lebanon. For this purpose, and to insure
the utmost regularity, an old masonic tradition informs us that he divided
them into lodges, placing three hundred in each, under a Master and Wardens,
himself being Grand Master over all. He was also constituted by the king one
of the seven Grand Superintendents, and Chief of the Provosts and Judges.
24 -
What is the relation of women to Masonry in France and in America:,
Adoptive Masonry.
A name given to certain degrees resembling Masonry, and Masonic in spirit,
which have been invented for ladies who have claims upon. the Order of
Freemasonry, through relatives who are members of it. Adoptive Masonry first
made its appearance in France, in the early part of the 18th century, and is
still a legal and regular branch of the Institution in that country. The
French rite has four degrees:
1.
Apprentice;
2.
Companion;
3.
Mistress;
4.
Perfect Mistress. The officers of a Lodge of Adoption are a Grand Master and a
Grand Mistress; an Orator; an Inspector, and
84 MASONRY DEFINED
Inspectress; a Depositor and Depositrex; a Conductor and Conductress. They
wear blue collars, with a gold trowel pendant therefrom, white aprons, and
gloves. The members also wear the jewel of the Order, which is a golden ladder
with five rounds, on the left breast. Many of the most distinguished ladies of
Europe have been, and are now, members of this Order. Among them were the
Duchess of Bourbon, the Empress Josephine, Lady Montague, Duchess Elizabeth
Chesterfield, and the Empress Eugenie. The Adoptive Lodges were at first
rapidly diffused throughout all the countries of Europe except the British
empire. But the American Adoptive rite is better adapted to the United States,
and has excited considerable interest, and found many powerful advocates in
this country. It consists of five degrees, as follows:
1.
Jephthah's daughter, or the Daughter's degree, illustrating respect to the
binding force of a vow;
2.
Ruth, or the Widow's degree, illustrating devotion to religious principles;
3.
Esther, or the Wife's degree, illustrating fidelity to kindred and friends;
4.
Martha, or the Sister's degree, illustrating undeviating faith in the hour of
trial;
5.
Electa, or the Benevolent degree, illustrating charity and courage, with
patience and submission under wrongs.
All
the degrees together are called the "Rite of the Eastern Star," and are very
beautiful and impressive. Ladies who have received these degrees have a ready
and efficient means of commanding the services of Freemasons whenever and
wherever they may need them. The moral teachings of the Eastern Star degrees
are excellent, and cannot fail to make a good impression. Notwithstanding that
there is among some Masons a strong feeling against any form of Adoptive
Masonry, it cannot be questioned that the spirit of the age demands something
of the kind. Masons cannot find a surer safeguard and protection for their
wives, sisters, and daughters than is furnished by the American Adoptive rite
or Order of the Eastern Star. To the objection that the degrees are not
Masonic, it may be replied that they are as much so as any degree outside of
the Symbolical Lodge. No degrees above the first three are Masonic, except by
adoption.
25 -
How is the word "advanced" technically used in Masonry?
Advanced.
This word has two technical meanings in Masonry.
1. We
speak of a candidate as being advanced when he has passed from a lower to a
higher degree; as we say that a candidate is qualified for advancement from
the Entered Apprentice's degree to that of a Fellow Craft when he has made
that "suitable proficiency in the former which, by the regulations of the
Order, entitle him to receive the initiation into and the instructions of the
latter." And when the Apprentice has thus been promoted to the second degree
he is said to have advanced in Masonry.
MASONRY DEFINED 85
2. The
word is peculiarly applied to the initiation of a candidate in the Mark
degree, which is the fourth in the American modification of the York Rite. The
Master Mason is thus said to be "advanced to the honorary degree of a Mark
Master," to indicate either that he has now been promoted one step beyond the
degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry on his way to the Royal Arch, or to express
the fact that he has been elevated from the common class of Fellow Crafts to
that higher and more select one which, according to the traditions of Masonry,
constituted, at the first Temple, the class of Mark Masters.
26 -
What is the status of an Entered Apprentice if the Lodge denies him
advancement?
Advancement, Denial of.
An Apprentice has the right to apply for advancement; but the Lodge in which
he was initiated has the correlative right to reject his application. And
thereby no positive right of any person is affected; for, by this rejection of
the candidate for advancement, no other injury is done to him than the
disappointment of his expectations. His character as an Entered Apprentice is
not impaired. He still possesses all the rights and prerogatives that he did
before, and continues, notwithstanding the rejection of his application, to be
an Apprentice "in good standing," and entitled, as before, to all the rights
and privileges of a possessor of that degree.
27 -
Does an Entered Apprentice have the right of advancement?
Advancement, Right of.
Apprentices have the right to apply for advancement to a higher degree. Out of
the class of Apprentices the Fellow Crafts are made; and as this eligibility
to promotion really constitutes the most important right of this inferior
class of our Brethren, it is well worthy of careful consideration. I say,
then, that the Entered Apprentice possesses the right of application to be
passed to the degree of a Fellow Craft. He is eligible as a candidate; but
here this right ceases. It goes no farther than the mere prerogative of
applying. It is only the right of petition. The Apprentice has, in fact, no
more claim to the second degree than the profane has to the first. It is a
most mistaken opinion to suppose that when a profane is elected as a
candidate, he is elected to receive all the degrees that can be conferred in a
Symbolic Lodge. Freemasonry is a rigid system of probation. A second step
never can be attained hntil sufficient proof has been given in the preceding
that the candidate is "worthy and well qualified." A candidate who has
received the first degree is no more assured by this reception that he will
reach the third, than that he will attain the Royal Arch. In the very ceremony
of his reception he may have furnished convincing evidence of his unfitness to
proceed further; and it would become the duty of
86 MASONRY DEFINED
the
Lodge, in that case, to debar his future progress. A bad Apprentice will make
a worse Master Mason; for he who cannot comply with the comparatively simple
requisitions of the first degree, will certainly be incapable of responding to
the more important duties and obligations of the third. Hence, on the petition
of an Apprentice to be passed as a Fellow Craft, a ballot should always be
taken. This is but in accordance with the meaning of the word; for a petition
is a prayer for something which may or may not be refused, and hence, if the
petition is granted, it is ex gratin, or by the voluntary favor of the Lodge,
which, if it chooses, may withhold its assent. Any other view of the case
would exclude that inherent right which is declared by the Regulations of 1721
to exist in every Lodge, of being the best judges of the qualifications of its
own members.
28 -
What are the supports of the adytum or Lodge?
Adytum.
In the British and other Mysteries the three pillars of Wisdom, Strength, and
Beauty represented the great emblematical Triad of Deity, whereas with us they
refer to the three principal officers of the lodge. We shall find, however,
that the symbolical meaning is the same. In Britain the Adytum or lodge was
actually supported by three stones or pillars, which were supposed to convey a
regenerating purity to the aspirant, after having endured the ceremony of
initiation in all its accustomed formalities. The delivery from between them
was termed a new birth. The corresponding pillars of the Hindu Mythology were
also known by the names of Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty, and were placed in
the east, west, and south, crowned with three human heads. They jointly
referred to the Creator, who was said to have planned the Great Work by his
infinite Wisdom; executed it by his Strength; and adorned it with all its
Beauty and use‑fulness for the benefit of man.
29 -
Of what were the ancient Lodges schools?
Affability.
The ancient lodges were so many schools or academies for teaching and
improving the arts of designing, especially architecture; and the present
lodges are often employed in that way in lodge hours, or else in agreeable
conversation, though without politics or party feeling. None of them are ill
employed; they have no transaction unworthy of an honest man or a gentleman;
no personal piques, no quarrels, no cursing and swearing, no cruel mockings,
no obscene talk, or ill manners, for the noble and eminent brethren are
affable to the meanest; and these are duly respectful to their betters in
harmony and proportion; and though on the level, yet always within compass,
and according to the square and plumb.
MASONRY DEFINED 87
30 -
What is the distinction between an affiliated and a non‑affiliated Mason?
Affiliated.
A word that designates a Mason as a member of some Lodge. A Mason who does not
belong to any Lodge is styled "Non‑Affiliated."
31 -
What is the Masonic meaning of the term "affiliation?"
Affiliation.
Initiation indicates the first reception of a person into a Masonic Lodge;
affiliation denotes the reception of one already a Mason into some other Lodge
than the one in which he received the Light.
All
the rights and duties that accrue to a Master Mason, by virtue of membership
in the Lodge in which he was initiated, likewise accrue to him who has been
admitted to membership by affiliation. There is no difference in the relative
standing of either class of members: their prerogatives, the privileges, and
their obligations are the same.
There
is, however, a difference in the methods of admission. Those who acquire
membership in a Lodge, by virtue of having received therein the third degree,
obtain that membership as a matter of right, without petition and without
ballot. But a Master Mason, who is desirous of affiliating with a Lodge in
which he was not initiated, or in which, after initiation, he had at the legal
time declined or neglected to assert his right of membership, must apply by
petition. This petition must be read at a regular communication of the Lodge,
and be referred to a committee of investigation, which committee, at the next
regular communication (a month having intervened), will report on the
character and qualifications of the candidate; and if the report be favorable,
the Lodge will proceed to ballot. As in the case of initiation, the ballot is
required to be unanimously in favor of the applicant to secure his election.
One black ball is sufficient to reject him.
All of
these Regulations, which are of ancient date and of general usage, are founded
on the fifth and sixth of the Regulations of 1721, and are, it will be seen,
the same as those which govern the petition and ballot for initiation. The
Regulations of 1721 make no difference in the cases of profanes who seek to be
made Masons, and Masons who desire affiliation or membership in a Lodge. In
both cases "previous notice, one month before," must be given to the Lodge,
"due inquiry into the reputation and capacity of the candidate" must be made,
and the "unanimous consent of all the members then present" must be obtained.
Nor can this unanimity be dispensed with in one ease any more than it can in
the other. It is the inherent privilege of every Lodge to judge of the
qualifications of its o`vn members, "nor is this inherent privilege subject to
a dispensation."
88 MASONRY DEFINED
32 -
Are there any geographical restrictions on the right of affiliation?
Affiliation of Non‑Residents.
Some Grand Lodges have adopted a Regulation requiring a Mason, living in their
respective jurisdictions, to unite himself in membership with some Lodge in
the said jurisdiction, and refusing to accord the rights of affiliation to one
who belongs to a Lodge outside of the jurisdiction. But I have no doubt that
this is a violation of the spirit of the ancient law. A Mason living in
California may retain his membership in a Lodge in the State of New York, and
by so doing, is as much an affiliated Mason, in every sense of the word, as
though he had acquired membership in a California Lodge. I do not advocate the
practice of holding membership in distant Lodges; for I believe that it is
highly expedient, and that a Mason will much more efficiently discharge his
duties to the Order by acquiring membership in the Lodge which is nearest to
his residence, than in one which is at a great distance; but I simply contend
for the principle, as one of Masonic jurisprudence, that a Master Mason has a
right to apply for membership in any Lodge on the face of the globe, and that
membership in a Lodge carries with it the rights of affiliation wherever the
member may go.
33 -
To what Lodge or Lodges may a Mason apply for affiliation?
Affiliation, Petition for.
There is one difference between the condition of a profane petitioning for
admission, and that of a Master Mason applying for membership, which claims
our notice.
A
profane can apply for initiation only to the Lodge nearest his place of
residence; but no such Regulation exists in reference to a Master Mason
applying for membership. He is not confined in the exercise of this privilege
within any geographical limits. No matter how distant the Lodge of his choice
may be from his residence, to that Lodge he has as much right to apply as to
the Lodge which is situated at the very threshold of his home. A Mason is
expected to affiliate with some Lodge. The ancient Constitutions specify
nothing further on the subject. They simply prescribe that every Mason should
belong to a Lodge, without any reference to its peculiar locality, and a
Brother therefore complies with the obligation of affiliation when he unites
himself with any Lodge, no matter how distant; and by thus contributing to the
support of the institution, he discharges his duty as a Mason, and becomes
entitled to all the privileges of the Order.
This
usage - for, in the absence of a positive law on the subject, it has become a
Regulation, from the force of custom only - is undoubtedly derived from the
doctrine of the universality of Masonry. The whole body of the craft,
wheresoever dispersed, being considered. by the fraternal character of the
institution, as simply component
MASONRY DEFINED 89
parts
of one great family, no peculiar rights of what might be called Masonic
citizenship are supposed to be acquired by a domiciliation in one particular
place. The Mason who is at home and the Mason who comes from abroad are
considered on an equal footing as to all Masonic rights; and hence the Brother
made in Europe is as much a Mason when he comes to America, and is as fully
qualified to discharge in America all Masonic functions, without any form of
naturalization, as though he had been made in this country. The converse is
equally true. Hence no distinctions are made, and no peculiar rights acquired
by membership in a local Lodge. Affiliation with the Order, of which every
Lodge is equally a part, confers the privileges of active Masonry. Therefore
no law has ever prescribed that a Mason must belong to the Lodge nearest to
his residence, but generally that he must belong to a Lodge; and consequently
the doctrine is, as it has been enunciated above, that a Master Mason may
apply for affiliation, and unite himself with any Lodge which is legal and
regular, no matter how near to, or how far from his place of residence.
34 -
What is the relation of the ancient love‑feast to Masonry?
Agape.
Love‑feast. A banquet of charity, among the early Christians. St. Chrysostom
thus describes its origin and purposes: "At first Christians had all things in
common; but when that equality of possession ceased, as it did even in the
Apostle's time, the Agape, or love‑feast, was instituted instead of it. Upon
certain days, after the religious services were closed, they met at a common
feast, the rich bringing provisions, and the poor, who had nothing, being
invited. These meetings were held in secret." The Agape cannot but call to
mind the Table‑lodges of Freemasonry, and, in truth, these owe their origin to
the love‑feasts of the primitive Christians. A distinguished German scholar,
A. Kestner, professor of Theology at Jena, published a work in 1819, entitled,
"The Agape, or the Secret World‑Society - Weltbund, of the primitive
Christians" - i.e., a society apart from their spiritual organization -
"founded by Clemens, at Rome, in the reign of Domitian, having a hierarchical
constitution, and a ground system of Masonic symbolism, and mysteries." In
this Work he argues that there was a direct connection between the Agape and
the Table‑lodge of Freemasons.
35 -
Of what was the stone of foundation formed?
Agate.
Among the Masonic traditions is one which asserts that the stone of foundation
was formed of agate. This, like everything connected with the legend of the
stone, is to be mystically interpreted. In this view, agate is a symbol of
strength and beauty, a symbolism derived from the peculiar character of the
agate which
90 MASONRY DEFINED
is
distinguished for its compact formation, and the ornamental character of its
surface.
36 -
Is the age of twenty‑one the lawful age of admission in all Masonic
jurisdictions?
Age, Lawful.
The ancient Regulations do not express any determinate number of years at the
expiration of which a candidate becomes legally entitled to apply for
admission. The language used is, that he must be of "mature and discreet age."
But the usage of the Craft has differed in various countries as to the
construction of the time when this period of maturity and discretion is
supposed to have arrived. The sixth of the Regulations, adopted in 1663,
prescribes that "no person shall be accepted unless he be twenty‑one years
old, or more;" but the subsequent Regulations are less explicit. At
Frankfort‑on‑the‑Main, the age required is twenty; in the Lodges of
Switzerland, it has been fixed at twenty‑one. The Grand Lodge of Hanover
prescribes the age of twenty‑five, but permits the son of a Mason to be
admitted at eighteen. The Grand Lodge of Hamburg decrees that the lawful age
for initiation shall be that which in any country has been determined by the
laws of the land to be the age of majority. The Grand Orient of France
requires the candidate to be twenty‑one unless he be the son of a Mason, who
hasp performed some important service to the Order, or unless he be a young
man who has served six months in the army, when the initiation may take place
at the age of eighteen. In Prussia the required age is twenty‑five. In England
it is twenty‑one, except in cases where a dispensation has been granted for an
earlier age by the Grand or Provincial Grand Master. In Ireland the age must
be twenty‑one, except in cases of dispensation granted by the Grand Master or
Grand Lodge. In the United States, the usage is general that the candidate
shall not be less than twenty‑one years of age at the time of his initiation,
and no dispensation can issue for conferring the degrees at an earlier period.
This
variety in the laws relating to this subject conclusively proves that the
precise age has never been determined by any Landmark of the Order. The design
and nature of the institution must in this case be our only guide. The
speculative character of the society requires that none shall be admitted to
its mysteries except those who have reached maturity and discretion; but it is
competent for any Grand Lodge to determine for itself what shall be considered
to be that age of maturity. Perhaps the best regulation is that adopted by the
Grand Lodge of Hamburg. Hence the Masons of this country have very wisely
conformed to the provisions of the law on this subject, which prevail in all
the States, and have made the age of twenty‑one the legal one for candidates
applying for admission.

ALBERT
GALLATIN MACKEY
Born
at Charleston, South Carolina, March 12th, 1807. Passed on at Fortress Monroe,
Virginia, June 20th, 1881, at the age of 74 years. Buried at Washington, D.C.,
June 26th, 1881, with all the solemnity of the Masonic Rites wherein he had
long been an active leader. Graduated with honors at the Charleston Medical
College, iii 18:31 gave his attention to the practice of medicine until 1851,
but from that time on devoted his time to literary and Masonic efforts. He was
Initiated, Passed and Raised in Saint Andrews Lodge No. 10, Charleston, South
Carolina, in 1841. Shortly thereafter he affiliated with Soloman's Lodge No.
1, Charleston, and was elected Worshipful Master in 1842. From 1842 to 1867 he
held the office of Grand Secretary of South Carolina. In 1812 he was advanced
and exalted in Capitular Masonry, and served 1855 to 1867 as Grand High Priest
of South Carolina. From 1850 to 1868 served as General Grand High Priest.
Created a Knight Templar in 1842, elected Eminent Commander 1844. Crowned a
Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the Thirty Third and last Degree, Ancient
and Accepted Scottish Rite in 1844, and for many years Secretary‑General of
the Supreme Council. Ilis most popular and outstanding Masonic literature were
"A Lexicon of Freemasoliry," "Mackey's History of Freemasonry,"
"Jurisprudence," "Symbolism," and "Mackey's Encyclopedia of Freemasonry."
These works are recognized and published then ‑ out the English speaking
world, as works of authority on Freemasonry.
MASONRY DEFINED 91
37 ‑
Certain numbers are assigned as the symbolic ages of Masons of various
degrees. What are they, and why?
Age, Masonic.
In all of the Masonic Rites except the York, or American system, a mystical
age is appropriated to each degree, and the initiate who has received the
degree is said to be of such or such an age. Thus, the age of an Entered
Apprentice is said to be three years; that of a Fellow Craft, five; and that
of a Master Mason, seven. These ages are not arbitrarily selected, but have
reference to the mystical value of members and their relation to the different
degrees. Thus, three is the symbol of peace and concord, and has been called
in the Pythagorean system the number of perfect harmony, and is appropriated
to that degree, which is the initiation into an Order whose fundamental
principles are harmony and brotherly love. Five is the symbol of active life,
the union of the female principle two and the male principle three, and refers
in this way to the active duties of man as a denizen of the world, which
constitutes the symbolism of the Fellow Craft's degree; and seven, as a
venerable and perfect number, is symbolic of that perfection which is supposed
to be attained in the Master's degree. In a way similar to this, all the ages
of the other degrees are symbolically and mystically explained. It has already
been said that this system does not prevail in the York Rite. It is uncertain
whether it ever did and has been lost, or whether it is a modern innovation on
the symbolism of Masonry invented for the later Rites. Something like it,
however, is to be found in the battery, which still exists in the York Rite,
and which, like the Masonic age, is varied in the different degrees.
The
Masonic ages are - and it will thus be seen that they are all mystic numbers ‑
3, 5, 7, 9, 15, 27, 63, 81.
38 How
is the word "agenda" used in Masonry?
Agenda.
A Latin participle, signifying "things to be done." In Masonry it means small
books in which certain virtues or precepts are written, and which it is the
duty of all Masons to inculcate and practice. It also applied to the items
constituting a program or order of business.
39 -
What was the book of the Constitutions of the Ancient Masons called?
Ahiman Rezon.
Dr. Mackey says these words are derived from the Hebrew ahim, brothers, manah,
to prepare, and ratzon, the will or law; and signifies, therefore literally,
"the law of prepared brothers." Others contend that the derivation is from
achi man razor., "the opinions of a true and faithful brother." It was the
title adopted for their Book of Constitutions by the section which split off
from our Grand Lodge about the year
1740,
and denominated themselves, by way of distinction, "Ancient Masons."
92 MASONRY DEFINED
40 -
To what extent should a Mason extend aid to a worthy distressed brother?
Aid and Assistance.
The duty of aiding and assisting, not only all worthy distressed Master
Masons, but their widows and orphans also, "wheresoever dispersed over the
face of the globe," is one of the most important obligations that is imposed
upon every brother of the "mystic tie" by the whole scope and tenor of the
Masonic Institution. The regulations for the exercise of this duty are few,
but rational. In the first place, a Master Mason who is in distress has a
greater claim, under equal circumstances, to the aid and assistance of his
brother, than one who, being in the Order, has not attained that degree, or
who is altogether a profane. This is strictly in accordance with the natural
instincts of the human heart, which will always prefer a friend to a stranger,
or, as it is rather energetically expressed in the language of Long Tom
Coffin, "a messmate before a shipmate, a shipmate before a stranger, and a
stranger before a dog;" and it is also strictly in accordance with the
teaching of the Apostle of the Gentiles, who has said: "As we have
opportunity, therefore, let us do good to all men, especially unto them who
are of the household." But this exclusiveness is only to be practiced under
circumstances which make a selection imperatively necessary. Where the grant
of relief to the profane would incapacitate us from granting similar relief to
our brother, then must the preference be given to him who is "of the
household." But the earliest symbolic lessons of the ritual teach the Mason
not to restrict his benevolence within the narrow limits of the Fraternity,
but to acknowledge the claims of all men, who need it, to assistance. Inwood
has beautifully said, "The humble condition both of property and dress, of
penury and want, in which you were received into the Lodge, should make you at
all times sensible of the distress of poverty and all you can spare from the
call of nature and the due care of your families, should only remain in your
possession as a ready sacrifice to the necessities of an unfortunate,
distressed brother. Let the distressed cottage feel the warmth of your Masonic
zeal and, if possible, exceed even the unabating ardor of Christian charity.
At your approach let the orphan cease to weep, and in the sound of your voice
let the widow forget her sorrow." Another restriction laid upon this duty of
aid and assistance by the obligations of Masonry is that the giver shall not
be lavish beyond his means in the disposition of his benevolence. What he
bestows must be such as he can give "without material injury to himself or
family." No man should wrong his wife or children that he may do a benefit to
a stranger or ever a brother. The obligations laid on a Mason to grant aid and
assistance to the needy and distressed
MASONRY DEFINED 93
seem
to be in the following graduations: first, to his family; next, to his
brethren; and, lastly, to the world at large.
So far
this subject has been viewed in a general reference to that spirit of kindness
which should actuate all men, and which it is the object of Masonic teaching
to impress on the mind of every Mason as a common duty of humanity, and whose
disposition Masonry only seeks to direct and guide. But there is another
aspect in which this subject may be considered, namely, in that peculiar and
technical one of Masonic aid and assistance due from one Mason to another.
Here there is a duty declared, and a correlative right inferred; for if it is
the duty of one Mason to assist another, it follows that every Mason has the
right to claim that assistance from his brother. It is this duty that the
obligations of Masonry are especially intended to enforce; it is this right
that they are intended to sustain. The symbolic ritual of Masonry which
refers, as, for instance, in the first degree, to the virtue of benevolence
refers to it in the general sense of a virtue which all men should practice.
But when the Mason reaches the third degree, he discovers new obligations
which restrict and define the exercise of this duty of aid and assistance. So
far as his obligations control him, the Mason as a Mason, is not legally bound
to extend his aid beyond the just claimants in his own Fraternity. To do good
to all men is of course inculcated and recommended; to dv good to the
household is enforced and made compulsory by legal enactment and sanction.
Now,
as there is here, on one side, a duty, and on the other side a right, it is
proper to inquire what are the regulations or laws by which this duty is
controlled and this right maintained.
The
duty to grant and the right to claim relief Masonically is recognized in the
following passage of the Old Charges of 1722: "But if you discover him to be a
true and genuine brother, you are to respect him accordingly; and if he is in
want, you must relieve him if you can, or else direct him how he may be
relieved. You must employ him some days, or else recommend him to be employed.
But you are not charged to do beyond your ability; only to prefer a poor
brother, who is a good man and true, before any other people in the same
circumstances." This written law agrees in its conditions and directions, so
far as it goes, with the unwritten law of the Order, and from the two we may
deduce the following principles:
1. The
applicant must be a Master Mason. In 1722, the charitable benefits of Masonry
were extended, it is true, to Entered Apprentices, and an Apprentice was
recognized, in the language of the law, as "a true and genuine brother." But
this was because at that time only the first degree was conferred in
subordinate Lodges. Fellow
94 MASONRY DEFINED
Crafts
and Master Masons being made in the Grand Lodge. Hence the great mass of the
Fraternity consisted of Apprentices, and many Masons never proceeded any
further. But the second and third degrees are now always conferred in the
subordinate Lodges, and very few initiates voluntarily stop short of the
Master's degree. Hence, the mass of the Fraternity now consists of Master
Masons, and the law which formerly applied to Apprentices is, under our
present organization, made applicable only to those who have become Master
Masons.
2. The
applicant must be worthy. We are to presume that every Mason is "a good man
and true" until the Lodge which has jurisdiction over him has pronounced to
the contrary. Every Mason who is "in good standing," that is, who is a
regularly contributing member of a Lodge, is to be considered as "worthy," in
the technical sense of the term. An expelled, a suspended, or a non‑affiliated
Mason, does not meet the required condition of "a regularly contributing
member." Such a Mason is therefore not "worthy," and is not entitled to
Masonic assistance.
3. The
giver is not expected to exceed his ability in the amount of relief. The
written law says, "you are not charged to do beyond your ability," the ritual
says, that your relief must be "without material injury to yourself or
family." The principle is the same in both.
4. The
widow and orphans of a Master Mason have the claims of the husband and father
extended to them. The written law says nothing explicitly on this point, but
the unwritten or ritualistic law expressly declares that it is our duty "to
contribute to the relief of a worthy, distressed brother, his widow and
orphans."
5. And
lastly, in granting relief or assistance, the Mason is to be preferred to the
profane. He must be placed "before any other people in the same
circumstances." These are the laws which regulate the doctrine of Masonic aid
and assistance. They are often charged by the enemies of Masonry with a spirit
of exclusiveness. But it has been shown that they are in accordance with the
exhortation of the Apostle, who would do good "especially to those who are of
the household," and they have the warrant of the law of nature; for every one
will be ready to say. with that kindest‑hearted of men, Charles Lamb, "I can
feel for all indifferently, but I cannot feel for all alike. I can be a friend
to a worthy man, who, upon another account, cannot be my mate or fellow. I
cannot like all people alike." And so as Masons, while we should be charitable
to all persons in need or distress, there are only certain ones who can claim
the aid and assistance of the Order, or of its disciples, under the positive
sanction of the Masonic law.
MASONRY DEFINED 95
41 -
By what three elements is a Mason proved?
Air.
Every human being at his birth becomes subject to the action of three
elements. He comes out of water, passes through the air, and when he arrives
at maturity, he is under the influence of fire. It is only at his death that
he can participate of the fourth element (the earth). When he is initiated
into the mysteries of Masonry, he is proved by the three elements of water,
air, and fire.
42 -
In what sense is the word "alarm" used in Masonry?
Alarm.
The verb, "to alarm," signifies, in Freemasonry, "to give notice of the
approach of some one desiring admission." Thus, "to alarm the Lodge," is to
inform the Lodge that there is some one without who is seeking entrance. As a
noun, the word "alarm" has two significations. 1. An alarm is a warning given
by the Tiler, or other appropriate officer, by which he seeks to communicate
with the interior of the Lodge or Chapter. In this sense the expression so
often used, "an alarm at the door," simply signifies that the officer outside
has given notice of his desire to communicate with the Lodge.
2. An
alarm is also the peculiar mode in which this notice is to be given. As to the
derivation of the word, a writer in Notes and Queries ingeniously conjectures
that it comes from the old French a l'arme, which in modern times is aux armes,
"to arms." The legal meaning of to alarm is not to frighten, but to make one
aware of the necessity of defense or protection. And this is precisely the
Masonic signification of the word.
43 -
What is the sacred book of the Mohammedans called?
Alcoran.
The sacred book of the Mohammedans, or rather a sacred book, for they
recognize the old Hebrew Scriptures as of greater authority. The Alcoran,
commonly called the Koran, contains the revelations made to Mohammed, his
doctrines and precepts. In a Masonic Lodge of Mohammedans it should lay on the
altar as the Bible does in a Lodge of Christians.
44 -
Has a woman ever been made a Mason?
Aldworth, the Hon. Mrs.
This lady received, about the year 1735. the first and second degrees of
Freemasonry in Lodge No. 44, at Doneraile, in Ireland. The circumstances
connected with this singular initiation were first published in 1807, at Cork,
and subsequently republished by Spencer, the celebrated Masonic bibliophile,
in London. It may be observed, before proceeding to glean from this work the
narrative of her initiation, that the authenticity of all the circumstances
was confirmed on their first publication by an eye‑witness to the transaction.
The
Hon. Elizabeth St. Leger was born about the year 1713, and was the youngest
child and only daughter of the Right Hon. Arthur
96 MASONRY DEFINED
St.
Leger, first Viscount Doneraile, of Ireland, who died in 1727, and was
succeeded by his eldest son, the brother of our heroine. Subsequently to her
initiation into the mysteries of Freemasonry she married Richard Aldsworth,
Esq., of Newmarket, in the county of Cork
Lodge
No. 44, in which she was initiated, was, in some sort, an aristocratic Lodge,
consisting principally of the gentry and most respectable and wealthy
inhabitants of the country around Doneraile. The communications were usually
held in the town, but during the Mastership of Lord Doneraile, under whom his
sister was initiated, the meetings were often held at his Lordship's
residence.
It was
during one of these meetings at Doneraile House that this female initiation
took place, the story of which Spencer, in the memoir to which we have
referred, relates in the following words:
"It
happened on this particular occasion that the Lodge was held in a room
separated from another, as is often the case, by stud and brickwork. The young
lady, being giddy and thoughtless and determined to gratify her curiosity,
made her arrangements accordingly, and, with a pair of scissors (as she
herself related to the mother of our informant), removed a portion of a brick
from the wall, and placed herself so as to command a full view of everything
which occurred in the next room; so placed, she witnessed the two first
degrees in Masonry, which was the extent of the proceedings of the Lodge on
that night. Becoming aware, from what she heard, that the brethren were about
to separate, for the first time she felt tremblingly alive to the awkwardness
and danger of her situation, and began to consider how she could retire
without observation. She became nervous and agitated, and nearly fainted, but
so far recovered herself as to be fully aware of the necessity of withdrawing
as quickly as possible; in the act of doing so, being in the dark, she
stumbled against and overthrew something, said to be a chair or some
ornamental piece of furniture. The crash was loud; and the Tiler, who was on
the lobby or landing on which opened the doors both of the Lodge room and that
where the honorable Miss St. Leger was, gave the alarm, burst open the door,
and with a light in one hand and a drawn sword in the other, appeared to the
now terrified and fainting lady. He was soon joined by the members of the
Lodge present, and luckily; for it is asserted that but for the prompt
appearance of her brother, Lord Doneraile, and other steady members, her life
would have fallen a sacrifice to what was then esteemed her crime. The first
care of his Lordship was to resuscitate the unfortunate lady without alarming
the house, and endeavor to learn from her an explanation of what had occurred;
having done so, many of the members being furious at the transaction, she was
placed under guard of the Tiler and a member, in the room where she was found.
The members reassembled and
MASONRY DEFINED 97
deliberated as to what, under the circumstances, was to be done, and over two
long hours she could hear the angry discussion and her death deliberately
proposed and seconded. At length the good sense of the majority succeeded in
calming, in some measure, the angry and irritated feelings of the rest of the
members, when, after much had been said and many things proposed, it was
resolved to give her the option of submitting to the Masonic ordeal to the
extent she had witnessed (Fellow Craft), and if she refused, the brethren were
again to consult. Being waited on to decide, Miss St. Leger, exhausted and
terrified by the storminess of the debate, which she could not avoid partially
hearing, and yet, notwithstanding all, with a secret pleasure, gladly and
unhesitatingly accepted the offer. She was accordingly initiated." Mrs., or,
as she was appropriately called, Sister Aldsworth, lived many years after, but
does not seem ever to have forgotten the lessons of charity and fraternal love
which she received on her unexpected initiation into the esoteric doctrines of
the Order. "Placed as she was," says the memoir we have quoted, "by her
marriage with Mr. Aldsworth, at the head of a very large fortune, the poor, in
general, had good reason to record her numerous and bountiful acts of
kindness; nor were these accompanied with ostentation - far from it. It has
been remarked of her, that her custom was to seek out bashful misery and
retiring poverty, and with a well‑directed liberality, soothe many a bleeding
heart."
45 -
What is the name of God in the Mohammedan religion?
Allah.
The Arabic name of God. The Alcoran describes his character and attributes
thus: "He alone is self‑existent; has no rival; is from everlasting to
everlasting; fills the universe with his presence; is the center in which all
things unite, as well the visible as the invisible; is infinite; Almighty,
all‑wise, all‑merciful, tender‑hearted; and his decrees are unchangeable."
46 -
What effect does non‑affiliation have upon the allegiance of a Mason to the
fraternity?
Allegiance.
The relation which a Mason bears to his Lodge is of a different nature from
that which connects him with the Order. It is in some degree similar to that
political relation which jurists have called "local allegiance," or the
allegiance which a man gives to the country or the sovereign in whose
territories and under whose protection he resides. This allegiance is founded
on the doctrine that where there is protection there should be subjection, and
that subjection should in turn receive protection. It may be permanent or
temporary. A removal from the territory cancels the allegiance, Which will
again be contracted towards the sovereign of the new domicile to which the
individual may have removed. Now this is
98 MASONRY DEFINED
precisely the relation which exists between a Mason and his Lodge. The Lodge
grants him its protection; that is, from his membership in it he derives his
rights of visit, of relief, of burial, and all the other prerogatives which
inure, by custom or law, to the active members of Lodges, and which are
actually the results of member‑ship. In return for this, he gives it his
allegiance; he acknowledges obedience to its By‑Laws, and he contributes to
its revenues by his annual or quarterly dues. But he may at any time dissolve
this allegiance to any particular Lodge, and contract it with another. As the
denizen of a country cancels his allegiance by abandoning its protection and
removing to another territory, the Mason may with‑draw his relations to one
Lodge and unite with another. But he still continues an affiliated Mason, only
his affiliation is with another body.
But
the denizen who removes from one country may not, by subsequent residence,
give his allegiance to another. He may become a cosmopolite, bearing local
allegiance to no particular sovereign. All that follows from this is, that he
acquires no right of protection; for, if he gives no subjection, he can ask
for no protection.
Now
this is precisely the case with an unaffiliated Mason. Having taken his demit
from one Lodge, he has of course lost its protection; and, having united with
no other, he can claim protection from none. He has forfeited all those rights
which are derived from membership. He has dissevered all connections between
himself and the Lodge organization of the Order, and by this act has divested
himself of all the prerogatives which belonged to him as a member of that
organization. Among these are the right of visit, of pecuniary aid, and of
Masonic burial. When he seeks to enter the door of a Lodge it must be closed
upon him, for the right to visit belongs only to affiliated Masons. Whenever
he seeks for Lodge assistance, he is to be refused, because the funds of the
Lodge are not to be distributed among those who refuse to aid, by their
individual contributions, in the formation of similar funds in other Lodges.
Nor can he expect to be accompanied to his last resting‑place by his brethren;
for it is a settled law, that no Mason can be buried with the ceremonies of
the Order, except upon his express request, previously made to the Master of
the Lodge of which he is a member.
47 -
What is the symbolism of the All‑Seeing Eye?
All‑Seeing Eye.
An important symbol of the Supreme Being, borrowed by the Freemasons from the
nations of antiquity. Both the Hebrews and the Egyptians appear to have
derived its use from that natural inclination of figurative minds to select an
organ as the symbol of the function which it is intended peculiarly to
discharge. Thus, the foot was often adopted as the symbol of swiftness, the
arm of strength, and the hand of fidelity. On the game principle, the
MASONRY DEFINED 99
open
eye was selected as the symbol of watchfulness, and the eye of God as the
symbol of divine watchfulness and care of the universe. The use of the symbol
in this sense is repeatedly to be found in the Hebrew writers. Thus, the
Psalmist says (Ps. xxxiv. 15): "The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous,
and his ears are open to their cry," which explains a subsequent passage (Ps.
cxxi. 4) in which it is said: "Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither
slumber nor sleep." On the same principle, the Egyptians represented Osiris,
their chief deity, by the symbol of an open eye, and placed this hieroglyphic
of him in all their temples. His symbolic name, on the monuments, was
represented by the eye accompanying a throne, to which was sometimes added an
abbreviated figure of the god, and sometimes what has been called a hatchet,
but which, I consider, may as correctly be supposed to be a representation of
a square.
The
All‑Seeing Eye may then be considered as a symbol of God manifested in his
omnipresence - his guardian and preserving character - to which Solomon
alludes in the Book of Proverbs (xv. 3), when he says: "The eyes of Jehovah
are in every place, beholding (or, as it might be more faithfully translated,
watching) the evil and the good." It is a symbol of the Omnipresent Deity.
48 -
What allurements does Masonry hold out?
Allurements.
Masonry is one of the most sublime and perfect institutions that ever was
formed for the advancement of the happiness and general good of mankind,
creating, in all its varieties, universal benevolence and brotherly love. It
holds out allurements so captivating as to inspire the brotherhood with
emulation to deeds of glory, such as must command, throughout the world,
veneration and applause, and such as must entitle those who perform them to
dignity and respect. It teaches us those useful, wise, and instructive
doctrines upon which alone true happiness is founded; and at the same time
affords those easy paths by which we attain the rewards of virtue; it teaches
us the duties which we owe to our neighbor, never to injure him in any one
situation, but to conduct ourselves With justice and impartiality; it bids us
not to divulge the mystery to the public; and it orders us to be true to our
trust, and above all meanness and dissimulation, and in all our vocations to
perform religiously that which we ought to do.
49 ‑
What is the symbolism of the almond tree?
Almond Tree.
The tree of which Aaron's rod, that budded, was a branch. Its flowers were
pure white. When it is said in the passage of Scripture from the twelfth
chapter of Eccles. read during the ceremonies of the third degree, "the almond
tree shall flourish," ref‑
100 MASONRY DEFINED
erence
is made to the white flowers of that tree, and the allegoric signification is
to old age, when the hairs of the head shall become gray.
50 -
What is the symbolism of the Masonic altar?
Altar.
The most important article of furniture in a Lodge room is undoubtedly the
altar. It is worth while, then, to investigate its character and its relation
to the altars of other religious institutions. The definition of an altar is
very simple. It is a structure elevated above the ground, and appropriated to
some service connected with worship, such as the offering of oblations,
sacrifices, or prayers.
Altars, among the ancients, were generally made of turf or stone. When
permanently erected and not on any sudden emergency, they were generally built
in regular courses of masonry, aid usually in a cubical form. Altars were
erected long before temples. Thus, Noah is said to have erected one as soon as
he came forth from the ark. Ileroditus gives the Egyptians the credit of being
the first among the heathen nations who invented altars.
Among
the ancients, both Jews and Gentiles, altars were of two kinds - for incense
and for sacrifice. The latter were always erected in the open air, outside and
in front of the Temple. Only altars of incense were permitted within the
Temple walls. Animals were slain, and offered on the altars of burnt
offerings. On the altars of incense, bloodless sacrifices were presented and
incense was burnt to the Deity.
The
Masonic altar, which, like everything else in Masonry, is symbolic, appears to
combine the character and uses of both of these altars. It is an altar of
sacrifice, for on it the candidate is directed to lay his passions and vices
as an oblation to the Deity, while he offers up the thoughts of a pure heart
as a fitting incense to the Grand Architect of the Universe. The altar is,
therefore, the most holy place in a Lodge.
Among
the ancients the altar was always invested with peculiar sanctity. Altars were
places of refuge and the supplicants who fled to them were considered as
having placed themselves under the protection of the deity to whom the altar
was consecrated, and to do violence even to slaves and criminals at the altar,
or to drag them from it, was regarded as an act of violence to the deity
himself, and was hence a sacrilegious crime.
The
marriage covenant among the ancients was always solemnized at the altar, and
men were accustomed to make all their solemn con‑tracts and treaties by taking
oaths at altars. An oath taken or a vow made at the altar was considered as
more solemn and binding than one assumed under other circumstances. Hence,
Hannibal's father brought him to the Carthaginian altar when he was about to
make him swear eternal enmity to the Roman power.
MASONRY DEFINED 101
In all
the religions of antiquity, it was the usage of the priests and the people to
pass around the altar in the course of the sun, that is to say, from the east,
by the way of the south, to the west, singing hymns of praise as a part of
their worship.
From
all this we see that the altar in Masonry is not merely a convenient article
of furniture, intended, like a table, to hold a Bible. It is a sacred utensil
of religion, intended, like the altars of the ancient temples, for religious
uses, and thus identifying Masonry, by its necessary existence in our Lodges,
as a religious institution. Its presence should also lead the contemplative
Mason to view the ceremonies in which it is employed with solemn reverence, as
being part of a really religious worship.
The
situation of the altar in the French and Scottish Rites is in front of the
Worshipful Master, and, therefore, in the East. In the York Rite, the altar is
placed in the centre of the room, or more prop. erly a little to the East of
the centre.
The
form of a Masonic altar should be a cube, about three feel high, and of
corresponding proportions as to length and width, having: in imitation of the
Jewish altar, four horns, one at each corner. The Holy Bible with the Square
and Compass should be spread open upon it, while around it are to be placed
three lights. These lights are to be in the East, West and South. North of the
altar there is no light, because in Masonry the North is the place of
darkness.
51 -
What is the steward's jewel, and why?
Amalthea.
The name of the horn of the Cretan goat. This is the mythological horn of
plenty - "Cornu Copia" - which signifies an abundance of things necessary to
life. It is the jewel of the stewards of a Lodge of Master Masons.
52 ‑
Why do Masons say amen at the close of prayer?
Amen.
The response to every Masonic prayer is, "So mote it be: Amen." The word Amen
signifies in Hebrew verily, truly, certainly. "Its proper place," says
Gensenius, "is where one person confirms the Words of another, and adds his
wish for success to the other's vows." It is evident, then, that it is the
brethren of the Lodge, and not the Master or Chaplain, who should pronounce
the word. It is a response to the prayer. The Talmudists have many
superstitious notions in respect to this word. Thus, in one treatise, it is
said that whosoever pronounces it with fixed attention and devotion, to him
the gates of Paradise will be opened; and, again, whoever enunciates the word
rapidly, his days shall pass rapidly away, and whosoever dwells upon it,
pronouncing it distinctly and slowly, his life shall be prolonged
102 MASONRY DEFINED
53 -
What is an amulet?
Amulet.
A piece of stone or metal, or other substance, marked with certain figures, to
be worn about the person as a protection against danger. The name, as well as
the thing, comes from the East. It is from the Arabic, hamail, a locket -
anything hung around the neck. Among the Turks and some other nations every
person thinks an amulet necessary to safety. Amulets were in vogue among the
Greeks, the Egyptians, and Romans. They were introduced into Christendom by
the Basilideans. The amulets of this sect were stones with the mystic word
Abraxas engraved upon them. They were highly valued by the Jews; and in past
times Christians have worn them, having the mark of a fish or a symbol of the
Savior. In many quasi‑Masonic societies they have been largely used, and they
are not wholly ,unknown in Masonry itself - e. g., the Tyrian Signet, H. T. W.
S. S. T. K. S.
54 -
What is the symbolism of the Anchor?
Anchor.
The hope of glory, or of the fulfilment of all God's promises to our souls, is
the golden or precious anchor, by which we must be kept steadfast in the
faith, and encouraged to abide in our proper station, amidst the storms of
temptation, affliction, and persecution.
55 -
Of what are the anchor and ark the emblems?
Anchor and Ark.
The ark and anchor are emblems of a well‑grounded hope and a well‑spent life.
They are emblematical of that divine ark which triumphantly bears us over this
tempestuous sea of troubles; and that anchor which shall safely moor us in a
peaceful harbor, where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at
rest.
56 -
What is included in Ancient Craft Masonry?
Ancient Craft Masonry.
This is the name given to the three symbolic degrees of Entered Apprentice,
Fellow Craft and Master Mason. The degree of Royal Arch is not generally
included under this appellation; although, when considered (as it really is) a
complement of the third degree, it must of course constitute a part of Ancient
Craft Masonry. In the articles of union between the two Grand Lodges of
England, adopted in 1813, it is declared that "pure Ancient Masonry consists
of three degrees and no more; viz.: those of the Entered Apprentice, the
Fellow Craft, and the Master Mason, including the Supreme Order of the Holy
Royal Arch."
57 -
How many degrees were there in Ancient Craft Masonry?
Ancient Craft Masonry, Degrees of.
In the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and at still more remote periods,
the operative element constituted an important ingredient in the organization
of the
MASONRY DEFINED 103
institution. The divisions of the members into grades at that time were
necessarily assimilated to the wants of such an operative institution. There
were Masters to superintend the work, Fellow Crafts, or as they were almost
always called, Fellows, to perform the labor, and Apprentices, to be
instructed in the principles of the art. Hence, in all the oldest records, we
find constant allusions to the Fellows, as constituting the main body of the
fraternity; and the word "Fellow," at that time, appears to have been strictly
synonymous with "Freemason." Thus, Elias Ashmole, the celebrated antiquary,
says in his "Diary," that on the sixteenth day of October, 1646, he "was made
a Freemason at Warrington, Lancashire, with Colonel Henry Mainwaring, of
Kerthingham, in Cheshire, by Mr. Richard Penket, the Warden, and the Fellow
Crafts." And again, under the date of March 10, 1682, when speaking of another
reception which took place on that day at Masons' Hall, in London, he says: "I
was the Senior Fellow among them - it being thirty‑five years since I was
admitted. There were present, besides myself, the Fellows after named," and he
proceeds to give the names of these Fellows, which it is unnecessary to quote.
Throughout the whole of the Ancient Charges and Regulations, until we get to
those emendations of them which were adopted in 1721 and 1722, we find no
reference to the Apprentices, except as a subordinate and probationary class,
while the Fellow Crafts assume the position of the main body of the
fraternity, that position which, in the present day, is occupied by the Master
Masons.
During
all this time, the Apprentices are seldom alluded to, and then only as if in a
subordinate position, and without the possession of any important
prerogatives. Thus, they are thrice spoken of only in the York Constitutions
of 926, where the Master is directed to take no Apprentice "for less than
seven years;" to take care, in the ad‑mission of an Apprentice, "that he do
his lord no prejudice;" and to "instruct his Apprentice faithfully, and make
him a perfect workman." And in the "Ancient Charges at Makings," it is implied
that either a Master or Fellow may take an Apprentice.
These
citations from the Ancient Regulations need not be'extended. From them we may
collect the facts, or at least the very probable sup‑positions, that in the
very earliest history of the Order, the operative character predominating, the
Fellow Crafts, under the designation of "Fellows," constituted the main body
of the fraternity, while the Masters were the superintendents of the work;
that at a later period, about the beginning of the eighteenth century, the
speculative character predominating, the Apprentices arose in dignity and
became the body of the fraternity, while the Fellow Crafts and Master Masons
were intrusted with the offices; and that still later, at some time in the
course of the eighteenth century, which certainly was not very long after the
year 1725, the Apprentices and Fellow Crafts descended into a
104 MASONRY DEFINED
subordinate position, just such a one of the former class had originally
occupied, and the Master Masons alone composed the body of the craft.
58 -
Who and what were the Ancient Masons?
Ancient Masons.
Ancients was the name assumed by a body of Masons which, in
1738,
arose independently beside the regular Grand Lodge of England, and who at the
same time insultingly bestowed upon the adherents of that body the title of
Moderns. Thus Dermott, in his Ahiman Rezon, divides the Masons of England into
two classes, as follows: "The Ancients, under the name of Free and Accepted
Masons. The Moderns, under the name of Freemasons of England. And though a
similarity of names, yet they differ exceedingly in makings, ceremonies,
knowledge, Masonical language, and installations; so much so, that they always
have been, and still continue to be, two distinct societies, directly
independent of each other." To understand, therefore, anything of the meaning
of these two terms, we must be acquainted with the history of what was
formerly regarded as the schism of the self‑styled Ancients from the legal
Grand Lodge of England. No Masonic student should be ignorant of this history,
and I propose, therefore, to give a brief sketch of it in the present article.
In the
year 1738, a number of brethren in London, having become dissatisfied with
certain transactions in the Grand Lodge of England, separated themselves from
the regular Lodges, and began to hold meetings and initiate candidates without
the sanction and authority of the Grand Lodge. Preston, who has given a good
account of the Ancients, does not, however, state the causes which led to the
dissatisfaction of the recusant brethren. But Thorp attributes it to the fact
that the Grand Lodge had introduced some innovation, altering the rituals and
suppressing many of the ceremonies which had long been in use. This is also
the charge made by Dermott. It is certain that changes were made, especially
in some of the modes of recognition, and these changes, it is believed, were
induced by the publication of a spurious revelation by the notorious Samuel
Prichard. Preston himself acknowledges that innovations took place, although
he attributes them to a time subsequent to the first secession.
Just
about this time some dissensions had occurred between the Grand Lodge at
London and that at York, and the irregular brethren, taking advantage of this
condition of affairs, assumed, but without authority from the Grand Lodge of
York, the name of Ancient York Masons. Matters were, however, subsequently
accommodated; but in the next year the difficulties were renewed, and the
Grand Lodge persisting in its innovations and ritualistic changes, the
irregular brethren declared themselves independent, and assumed the
appellation of An‑
MASONRY DEFINED 105
cient
Masons, to indicate their adhesion to the ancient forms, while, for a similar
purpose, they denominated the members of the regular Lodges, Modern Masons,
because, as was contended, they had adopted new forms and usages. The
irregulars established a new Grand Lodge in London, and, under the claim that
they were governed by the Ancient York Constitutions, which had been adopted
at that city in the year 926, they gained over many influential persons in
England, and were even recognized by the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland.
The Ancient York Lodges, as they were called, greatly increased in England,
and became so popular in America that a majority of the Lodges and provincial
Grand Lodges established in this country during the eighteenth century derived
their warrants from the Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons. In the year 1756,
Laurence Dermott, then Grand Secretary, and subsequently the Deputy Grand
Master of the new Grand Lodge, published a Book of Constitutions, for the use
of the Ancient Masons, under the title of Ahiman Rezon, which work went
through several editions, and became the code of Masonic law for all who
adhered, either in England or America, to the Ancient York Grand Lodge, while
the Grand Lodge of Moderns, or the regular Grand Lodge of England, and its
adherents, were governed by the regulations contained in Anderson's
Constitutions, the first edition of which had been published in 1723.
Henry
Sadler maintains that the first ancient lodges in London were formed by Irish
Masons in humble circumstances who had been denied admission into the English
lodges and that these brethren, not having been parties to the "revival" of
1717, were not seceders, but that their lodges were regularly organized by
right of immemorial usage, and this view now generally prevails.
The
dissensions between the two Grand Lodges of England lasted until the year
1813, when, as will be hereafter seen, the two bodies be‑came consolidated
under the name and title of the United Grand Lodge of Ancient Freemasons of
England. Four years afterwards a similar and final reconciliation took place
in America, by the union of the two Brand Lodges in South Carolina. At this
day all distinctidn between the Ancients and Moderns has ceased, and it lives
only in the memory of the Masonic student.
What
were the precise differences in the rituals of the Ancients and the Moderns,
it is now perhaps impossible to discover, as from their esoteric nature they
were only orally communicated; but some shrewd and near approximations to
their real nature may be drawn by inference from the casual expressions which
have fallen from the advocates of each in the course of their long and
generally bitter controversies.
I have
already said that the regular Grand Lodge is stated to have made certain
changes in the modes of recognition, in consequence of the Publication of
Samuel Prichard's spurious revelation. These changes
106 MASONRY DEFINED
were,
as we traditionally learn, a simple transposition of certain words, by which
that which had originally been the first became the second, and that which had
been the second became the first. Hence Dr. Dalcho, the compiler of the
original Ahiman Rezon of South Carolina, who was himself made in an Ancient
Lodge, but was acquainted with both systems, says "The real difference in
point of importance was no greater than it would be to dispute whether the
glove should be placed first upon the right or on the left." A similar
testimony as to the character of these changes is furnished by an address to
the Duke of Athol, the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ancients, in which
it is said: "I would beg leave to ask, whether two persons standing in the
Guild‑hall of London, the one facing the statues of Gog and Magog, and the
other with his back turned on them, could with any degree of propriety,
quarrel about their stations; as Gog must be on the right of one, and Magog on
the right of the other. Such then, and far more Insignificant, is the
disputatious temper of the seceding brethren, that on no better grounds than
the above they choose to usurp a power and to aid in open and direct violation
of the regulations they had solemnly engaged to maintain, and by every
artifice possible to be devised endeavored to in‑crease their numbers." It was
undoubtedly to the relative situation of the pillars of the porch, and the
appropriation of their names in the ritual, that these allusions referred. As
we have them now, they were made by the change effected by the Grand Lodge of
Moderns, which transposed the original order in which they existed before the
change, and in which order they are still preserved by the continental Lodges
of Europe.
It is
then admitted that the Moderns did make innovations in the ritual; and
although Preston asserts that the changes were made by the regular Grand Lodge
to distinguish its members from those made by the Ancient Lodges, it is
evident, from the language of the address just quoted, that the innovations
were the cause and not the effect of the break, and the inferential evidence
is that the changes were made in consequence of, and as a safeguard against,
spurious publications, and were intended, as I have already stated, to
distinguish imposters from true Masons, and not irregular brethren from those
who were orthodox.
But
outside of and beyond this transposition of words, there was another
difference existing between the Ancients and the Moderns. Dalcho, who was
acquainted with both systems, says that the Ancient Masons were in possession
of marks of recognition known only to themselves. His language on this subject
is positive. "The Ancient York Masons," he says, "were certainly in possession
of the original, universal marks, as they were known and given in the Lodges
they had left, and which had descended through the Lodge of York, and that of
England, down to their day. Besides these, we find they had peculiar marks of
their own, which were unknown to the body from
MASONRY DEFINED 107
which
they had separated, and were unknown to the rest of the Masonic world. We
have, then, the evidence that they had two sets of marks; viz.: those which
they had brought with them from the original body, and those which they had,
we suppose, themselves devised." Dermott, in his Ahiman Rezon, confirms this
statement of Dalcho, if indeed, it needs confirmation. He says that "a Modern
Mason may with safety communicate all his secrets to an Ancient Mason, but
that an Ancient Mason cannot, with like safety, communicate all his secrets to
a Modern Mason without further ceremony." And he assigns as a reason for this,
that "as a science comprehends an art (though an art cannot comprehend a
science), even so Ancient Masonry contains everything valuable among the
Moderns, as well as many other things that cannot be revealed without
additional ceremonies." Now, what were these "other things" known by the
Ancients, and not known by the Moderns? What were these distinctive marks,
which precluded the latter from visiting the Lodges of the former? Written
history is of course silent as to these esoteric matters. But tradition,
confirmed by, and at the same time explaining, the hints and casual
intimations of contemporary writers, leads us to the almost irresistible
inference that they were to be found in the different constructions of the
third, or Master's degree, and the introduction into it of the Royal Arch
element; for, as Dr. Oliver says, "the division of the third degree and the
fabrication of the English Royal Arch appear, on their own showing, to have
been the work of the Ancients." And hence the (trand Secretary of the regular
Grand Lodge, or that of the Moderns, replying to the application of an Ancient
Mason from Ireland for relief, says: "Our society (i. e. the Moderns) is
neither Arch, Royal Arch, nor Ancient, so that you have no right to partake of
our charity." This, then is the solution of the difficulty. The Ancients,
besides preserving the regular order of the words in the first and second
degrees, which the Moderns had transposed (a transposition which has been
retained in the Lodges of Britain and America, but which has never been
observed by the continental Lodges of Europe, who continue the Wage of the
Ancients), also finished the otherwise imperfect third degree with its natural
complement, the Royal Arch, a complement with which the Moderns were
unacquainted, or which they, if they knew it ogee, had lost.
For
some years the Ancient Lodges appear to have worked on an Independent system,
claiming the original right which every body of MMus had to assemble and work
without a warrant. Here, however, y were evidently in error, for it was well
known that on the revival of Masonry, in the year 1717, this right had been
relinquished by the tour London Lodges that were then in operation, and which
constituted
108 MASONRY DEFINED
the
Grand Lodge. This objection the Ancients pretended to meet by declaring that
the Grand Lodge organized in 1717 was not legally constituted, only four
Lodges having been engaged in the organization, while, as they said, five were
required. Here again they were in error, as there is no evidence of any such
regulation having ever existed. And, therefore, to place themselves in a less
irregular position, they organized, in 1757, a Grand Lodge of their own, which
was subsequently known by the title of "The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted
Masons of England, according to the old Constitutions," while the regular body
was known as "The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons under the
Constitution of England." The following is a list of the Grand Masters of the
Grand Lodge of Ancients from its organization to its dissolution:
1753,
Robert Turner;
1755,
Edward Vaughan;
1757,
Earl of Blessington;
1761,
Earl of Kelly;
1767,
Thomas Matthew;
1771,
3d Duke of Athol;
1775,
4th Duke of Athol;
1782,
Earl of Antrim;
1791,
4th Duke of Athol;
1813,
Duke of Kent, under whom the reconciliation of the two Grand Lodges was
accomplished.
The
Grand Lodge of Ancient Masons was, shortly after its organization, recognized
by the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland, and, through the ability and
energy of its officers, but especially Laurence Dermott, at one time its Grand
Secretary, and afterwards its Deputy Grand Master, and the author of its
Ahiman Rezon, or Book of Constitutions, it extended its influence and
authority into foreign countries and into the British Colonies of America.
Here it became exceedingly popular, and organized several Provincial Grand
Lodges, as, for in‑stance, in Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia,
and South Carolina, where the Lodges working under this authority were
generally known as "Ancient York Lodges." In consequence of this, dissensions
existed, not only in the mother country but also in America, for many years,
between the Lodges which derived their warrants from the Grand Lodge of
Ancients and those which derived theirs from the regular or so‑called Grand
Lodge of Mod‑ems. But the Duke of Kent having been elected, in 1813, the Grand
Master of the Ancients, while his brother, the Duke of Sussex, was Grand
Master of the Moderns, a permanent reconciliation was effected between the
rival bodies, and by mutual compromises the present "United Grand Lodge of
Ancient Freemasons of England" was established.
Similar unions were consummated in America, the last being that of the two
Grand Lodges of South Carolina, in 1817, and the distinction between the
Ancients and the Moderns was forever abolished, or remains only as a
melancholy page in the history of Masonic controversies.
MASONRY DEFINED 109
59 -
Who was the author of the "Constitutions of the Freemasons?"
Anderson, James, D. D.,
was born at Edinburg, Scotland, August 5, 1662. The time of his death is
uncertain; but, from the most reliable sources at our command, it is believed
that he died in 1738. He was a man of a high order of literary talent. Ilis
first work was an "Essay showing that the Crown of Scotland is Imperial and
Independent," for which the Parliament of Scotland gave him a vote of thanks.
At what time, or in what Lodge, Bro. Anderson became a Mason is not known. At
the meeting of the Grand Lodge at London, September 29, 1721, he was ordered
to arrange and more fully digest the old Gothic Constitutions into a new and
better method than had before existed. This duty he performed and the work was
issued in 1723, under the title, "The Constitutions of the Freemasons;
containing the History, Charges, Regulations, etc., of that most Ancient and
Right Worshipful Fraternity. For the use of the Lodges." In 1738, a second
edition, enlarged and revised, was published under his supervision. These are
regarded as the basis of Masonic Constitutions for the government of the
Fraternity to the present time. He was, for many years, Grand Chaplain of the
Grand Lodge. His most elaborate work was a folio volume entitled, "Royal
Genealogies; or, the Genealogical Tables of Emperors, Kings, and Princes, from
Adam to these times. London, 1732."
60 -
Who is the patron saint of Scottish Masons?
Andrew, St.
Brother of St. Peter, one of the Twelve Apostles. The Russians hold him in the
highest reverence, as also do the people of Scotland, and the Freemasons of
the latter country honor him as one of their patrons. Tradition says that he
was crucified. In both countries there is an order of knighthood named in his
honor.
61 -
What are the two principal anniversaries of symbolic Masonry?
Anniversaries, Masonic.
For Ancient Craft or Symbolic Masonry the festivals of St. John the Baptist,
24th of June, and St. John the Evangelist, 27th of December.
62 -
What is the precedent for annual sessions of Grand Lodge`s?
Annual Meetings of Grand Lodge.
Originally the meetings of the fraternity in their General Assembly or Grand
Lodge, were always annual. The old York Constitutions, it is true, say that
the assembly might be held triennially; but wherever spoken of, in subsequent
records, it is always as an Annual Meeting. It is not until 1717 that we find
anything said of quarterly communications; and the first allusion to these
subordinate meetings in any printed work, to which we now have access, is in
1738, in the edition of the Constitutions published in that year. The
expression there used is that the quarterly communica‑ tions were "forthwith
revived." This of course implies that they had Previously existed but as no
mention is made of them in the Regula‑
110 MASONRY DEFINED
tions
of 1663, which, on the contrary, speak expressly only of an "Annual General
Assembly," I feel authorized to infer that quarterly communications must have
been first introduced into the Masonic system after the middle of the
seventeenth century. They have not the authority of antiquity, and have been
very wisely discarded by nearly all the Grand Lodges in this country.
63 -
Why is Masonry mysterious?
Anomaly.
Freemasonry is mysterious because it is an admitted anomaly in the history of
the earth. Without territorial possessions - without any other coercing power
than that of morality and virtue - it has survived the wreck of mighty
empires, and resisted the destroying hand of Time. Contrast the history of
Freemasonry with the history of the nations of the world, and what is the
result? The Jews, God's favored people, where are they now? A race of
wanderers, scattered over the face of the globe. And the stupendous and
magnificent structure - the Temple - at once their glory and the wonder of the
world, where is it now? Not one stone is left upon another ! Babylon, in her
day the queen of nations, has fallen, never to rise again. Egypt, with her
kings and philosophers, classic Greece, and Imperial Rome, we now find but
occupying their page in the history of the world. But Masonry shines
throughout the 'world with as bright and .undiminished a lustre as when first
revealed by God to man.
64 -
What is the most useful form of Masonic charity?
Annuities.
Annuities are granted by many lodges to aged and distressed Freemasons, and
also to the poor widows of deceased brethren, and this form of charity is
certainly the most useful which any lodge can exercise. The silent gratitude
of the recipient is a sufficient reward to the Order, but it also reaps this
benefit, that the widow will encourage her sons, if she has any, to assist in
giving similar assistance to other suffering brethren and widows.
65 -
Did the anti‑Masonic party ever nominate a candidate for President?
Anti‑Masonic Party.
The Roman Catholic religion has always been anti‑Masonic, and hence edicts
have constantly been promulgated by popes and sovereigns in Roman Catholic
countries against the Order. The most important of these edicts is the bull of
Pope Clement XII, which was issued on the 28th of April, 1738, the authority
of which bull is still in existence, and forbids any pious Catholic from
uniting with a Masonic Lodge under the severest penalties of ecclesiastical
excommunication.
In the
United States, where there are neither popes to issue bulls nor kings to
promulgate edicts, the opposition to Freemasonry had to take the form of a
political party. Such a party was organized in this country in the year 1826.
MASONRY DEFINED 111
The
object of this party was professedly to put down the Masonic Institution as
subversive of good government, but really for the political aggrandizement of
its leaders, who used the opposition to Freemasonry merely as a stepping‑stone
to their own advancement to office. But the public virtue of the masses of the
American people repudiated a party which was based on such corrupt and
mercenary views. The party held several conventions; endeavored, sometimes
successfully, but oftener unsuccessfully, to enlist prominent statesmen in its
ranks, and finally, in 1831, nominated William Wirt and Amos Ellmaker as its
candidates for the Presidency and the Vice‑Presidency of the United States.
Each of these gentlemen received but seven votes, being the whole electoral
vote of Vermont, which was the only State that voted for them. So signal a
defeat was the death‑blow of the party, and from the year 1833 it quietly
withdrew from public notice, and now is happily no longer in existence.
William L. Stone, the historian of anti‑Masonry, has with commendable
impartiality expressed his opinion of the character of this party, when he
says that "the fact is not to be disguised - contradicted it cannot be - that
anti‑Masonry had become thoroughly political, and its spirit was vindictive
towards the Freemasons without distinction as to guilt or innocence."
Notwithstanding the opposition that from time to time has been exhibited to
Freemasonry in every country, America is the only one where it assumed the
form of a political party. This, however, may very justly be attributed to the
peculiar nature of our popular institutions. With us, the ballot‑box is
considered the most potent engine for the government of rulers as well as
people, and is, therefore, resorted to in cases in which, in more despotic
governments, the powers of the Church and State would be exercised. Hence, the
anti‑Masonic convention held at Philadelphia in 1830 did not hesitate to make
the following declarations as the cardinal principle of the party. "The object
of anti‑Masonry, in nominating and electing candidates for the Presidency and
Vice‑Presidency, is to deprive Masonry of the support which it derives from
the power and patronage of the executive branch of the United States
Government. To effect this object, will require that candidates, besides
possessing the talents and virtues, requisite for such exalted stations, be
known as men decidedly opposed to secret societies." This issue having been
thus boldly made was accepted by the people; and as principles like these were
fundamentally opposed to all the ideas of liberty, personal and political,
into which the citizens of the country had been indoctrinated, the battle was
made, and the anti‑Masonic party was not only defeated for the time, but
forever annihilated.
66 -
Who was alleged to have been murdered by Masons?
Anti‑Masonry.
Anti‑masonry was converted into a watch‑word about the year 1830, for
political purposes and, to render the cry more
112 MASONRY DEFINED
imposing and more successful, it was alleged that the Fraternity had murdered
a man of the name of Morgan for disclosing its secrets. The excitement was
kept up with unceasing pertinacity until it influenced nearly 100,000 electors
of the State of New York; almost divided the vote of Pennsylvania; planted
itself deeply in the soil of Massachusetts; spread itself in others of the New
England states, in Ohio and else‑where; and in Vermont, like the rod of Aaron,
so far swallowed up both of the former parties, as to obtain the control of
the state government. Nor was it of factitious partisans or disappointed men
that this party was composed. It comprised among its members as great a
portion of wealth and character - of talents and respectability - as any party
that was ever formed of equal numbers in this or any other country. And where
is this great anti‑masonic party now? The excitement continued but a few
years, until the hollowness of its principles became apparent; then it
suddenly disappeared like a passing cloud, leaving behind it nothing but
public shame and contempt for those who promoted and led it.
67 -
In what year did Masonry become entirely speculative?
Antiquity of Freemasonry.
Much that is claimed as true in Ma‑sonic history, by enthusiastic brothers is
legendary and must fall before the stern tests of sound philosophical
criticism, yet the high antiquity of the institution is incontestably
established. According to legend a part of the ritual of Freemasonry
originated in Egypt, and was en‑grafted on the system of the Sidonian builders
known as the Dionysian Artificers. This society also adopted a portion of the
rituals of Eleusis and Adonis, and through this Order of Freemasonry was
introduced into Judea, and constructed Solomon's Temple. In the time of Numa
Pornpilius, King of Rome, a branch of the Order of Hiram is said to have
appeared in Italy, and formed the Collegia Fabrorum and Artificum. This
society of builders continued in uninterrupted succession till the downfall of
the Roman empire, when its members spread over all Europe, a portion of whom
settled in Britain. Here the society flourished till 1717, when the
Brotherhood laid aside its operative character, and became entirely
speculative.
68 -
What is permitted to be printed about Masonry, and what is not?
Aporrheta.
The holy things in the Ancient Mysteries which were known only to the
initiates, and were not to be disclosed to the profane, were called the
aporrheta. What are the aporrheta of Freemasonry? what are the arcana of which
there can be no disclosure? are questions that for some years past have given
rise to much discussion among the disciples of the Institution. If the sphere
and number of these aporrheta be very considerably extended, it is evident
that much valuable investigation by public discussion of the science of
Masonry will be
MASONRY DEFINED 313
prohibited. On the other hand, if the aporrheta are restricted to only a few
points, much of the beauty, the permanency, and the efficacy of Freemasonry
which are dependent on its organization as a secret and mystical association
will be lost. We move between Scylla and Charybdis, and it is difficult for a
Masonic writer to know how to steer so as, in avoiding too frank an exposition
of the principles of the Order, not to fall by too much reticence into
obscurity. The European Masons are far more liberal in their views of the
obligation of secrecy than the English or the American. There are few things,
indeed, which a French or German Masonic writer will refuse to discuss with
the utmost frankness. It is now beginning to be very generally admitted, and
English and American writers are acting on the admission, that the only real
aporrheta of Freemasonry are the modes of recognition, and the peculiar and
distinctive ceremonies of the Order; and to these last it is claimed that
reference may be publicly made for the purpose of scientific investigation,
provided that the reference be so made as to be obscure to the profane, and
intelligible only to the initiated.
69 -
Has a Grand Lodge the right to entertain an appeal to reverse a ballot?
Appeal from Ballot.
So anxious is the law to preserve the independence of the ballot, as the great
safeguard of its purity, that the Grand Lodge, supreme on almost all other
subjects, has no power to interfere in reference to the ballot for a
candidate, and notwithstanding that injustice may have been done to an upright
and excellent man by his rejection (and such cases of clear injustice must
sometimes occur), neither the Grand Lodge nor the Grand Master can afford any
redress, nor can any dispensation be granted for either reversing the decision
of the Lodge, or for allowing less than a unanimous ballot to be required.
Hence we perceive that the dispensation mentioned in the edition of the Book
of Constitutions for 1738, permitting a candidate to be admitted with three
black balls, was entirely unconstitutional.
70 -
Does an appeal lie from the decision of a Grand Master is the Grand Lodge?
Appeal from Grand Master's Decision.
An appeal cannot be taken from the decision of the Grand blaster to the Grand
Lodge. The Committee of Foreign Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of New York,
in 1852, expressed views on this subject with which I so heartily con‑cur,
that I readily borrow their language: "We think," they say, "that no appeal
lies from his decision, because he is, in his official position, required,
like the Master in his Lodge, to see that the Constitutions and laws of
Masonry are faithfully observed. He cannot do this if his opinion or decision
may be instantly set aside by an appeal to that majority, which is about to
violate them. In such case also he may close the Lodge to prevent the
violation; so that calm reason teaches us that
114 MASONRY DEFINED
there
is no other just rule in the matter than that of the supremacy and
inviolability of presiding officers." I know that a few Grand Lodges, or
rather their Committees of Correspondence, have censured views like these, and
declare them to be investing a Grand Master with what they call "the one man
power." It may be so; and in like manner the undisputed power of the
Worshipful Master over his Lodge may receive a similar designation. And yet it
is, in a great measure, to this power beyond appeal, to the responsibility
which it entails, and to the great caution which it necessarily be‑gets, that
we must attribute much of the harmony and stability which have always
characterized the Order.
Should
the Grand Master ever abuse this great power, and by unjust or incorrect
decisions endanger the prosperity of the institution, the conservative
principle of an annual election will afford a competent check, and the evil of
an oppressive or an ignorant presiding officer can readily be cured by his
displacement at the constitutional period, and in the constitutional way.
71 -
Does an Entered Apprentice or Fellowcraft enjoy the right of Masonic relief?
Appeal of Entered Apprentices or Fellowcrafts.
The right of appeal differs from other rights in this, that it is` not
confined to Master Masons, but is equally enjoyed by Fellowcrafts, and even
Entered Apprentices. The humblest member of the fraternity, when he supposes
himself to be injured or unjustly treated by his superiors, is entitled to his
redress, in an appeal to the Grand Lodge; for, as has been already observed,
it is the wisdom of the law that where there is a wrong, there must be a
remedy.
72 -
What rights does a Mason have to appeal from a decision against him?
Appeal, Right of.
The right of appeal is an inherent right belonging to every Mason, and the
Grand Lodge is the appellate body to whom the appeal is to be made.
Appeals are of two kinds:
1st,
from the decision of the Master;
2nd,
from the decision of the Lodge.
Each
of these will require a distinct consideration.
1.
Appeals from the Decision of the Master. It is now a settled doctrine in
Masonic law that there can be no appeal from the decision of a Master of a
Lodge to the Lodge itself. But an appeal always lies from such decision to the
Grand Lodge, which is bound to entertain the appeal and to inquire into the
correctness of the decision. Some writers have endeavored to restrain the
despotic authority of the Master to decisions in matters strictly relating to
the work of the Lodge, while they contend that on all questions of business an
appeal may be taken from his decision in the Lodge. But it would be unsafe,
and often
MASONRY DEFINED 115
impracticable, to draw this distinction, and accordingly the highest Masonic
authorities have rejected the theory, and denied the power in a Lodge to
entertain an appeal from any decision of the presiding officer.
The
wisdom of this law must be apparent to any one who examines the nature of the
organization of the Masonic institution. The Master is responsible to the
Grand Lodge for the good conduct of his Lodge, To him and to him alone the
supreme Masonic authority looks for the preservation of order, and the
observance of the Constitutions and the Landmarks of the Order in the body
over which he presides. It is manifest, then, that it would be highly unjust
to throw around a pre‑siding officer so heavy a responsibility, if it were in
the power of the Lodge to overrule his decisions or to control his authority.
2.
Appeals from the Decisions of the Lodge. Appeals may be made to the Grand
Lodge from the decisions of a Lodge, on any subject except the admission of
members, or the election of candidates; but these appeals are more frequently
made in reference to conviction and punishment after trial.
When a
Mason, in consequence of charges preferred against him, has been tried,
convicted, and sentenced by his Lodge, he has an in‑alienable right to appeal
to the Grand Lodge from such conviction and sentence.
His
appeal may be either general or specified. That is, he may appeal on the
ground, generally, that the whole of the proceedings have been irregular or
illegal; or he may appeal specifically against some particular portion of the
trial; or lastly, admitting the correctness of the verdict, and acknowledging
the truth of the charges, he may appeal from the sentence, as being too severe
or disproportionate to the offense.
73 -
How should an appeal to Grand Lodge be made?
Appeal to Grand Lodge.
An appeal must be made in writing, specifying the particular grievance
complained of, and be transmitted to the Grand Secretary. A notice and copy of
the appeal must also be sent by the appellant to the party against whose
decision the appeal is made. All appeals must be made in proper and decent
language; no others will be received.
74 -
What is the Masonic status of an appellant during the pendency of an appeal?
Appellant, Status of.
The determination of the position of the appellant, during the pendency of the
appeal, is a question of law that is involved in much difficulty. Formerly, I
entertained the opinion that the appellant in this case remains in the
position of a Mason "under charges. " But a more mature reflection on this
subject, induced by a very general opposition of the fraternity, has led me to
review my decision.
116 MASONRY DEFINED
It is
admitted as Masonic law, that until the opinion of the higher body is known,
that of the lower must continue in force. Thus, if the Master decides a point
of order erroneously, the Lodge must obey it until it is reversed, on appeal,
by the Grand Lodge. This doctrine is founded on the principle of obedience to
authority, which lies at the very foundation of the Masonic organization.
Hence, judging by analogy in the cases under consideration, I am compelled
honestly to abandon my former views, and believe that the sentence of the
Lodge goes into operation at once, and is to be enforced until the Grand Lodge
shall think proper to reverse it. Still, the position of an expelled Mason who
has appealed is not precisely the same as that of one who has submitted to the
sentence of expulsion.
The
Grand Lodge of New York has very properly defined expulsion as implying "a
termination not only of Masonic intercourse and connection with the body
inflicting it, but from the Masonic fraternity, unless an appeal be made." Now
the last words qualify the definition, and show that expulsion, when an appeal
has been made, does not precisely imply the same thing as expulsion when no
appeal has been entered. Again: expulsion has been metaphorically described as
Masonic death. Continuing the metaphor, we may say that expulsion under appeal
is rather a state of Masonic trance than of death. The expelled person is, it
is true, deprived of all exercise of his Masonic functions, and is incapable
of any communion with his brethren, but the termination of the case is
rendered uncertain by the existence of the appeal. It may end in a
confirmation of the expulsion, or in his recovery and restoration to Masonic
rights. So that if a specific term is required to designate the condition of
one who has been suspended or expelled, during the pendency of his appeal from
the sentence, it may be called a quasi suspension, or quasi expulsion. The
individual is not really a suspended or expelled Mason until his appeal is
dismissed and the sentence confirmed; but in the meantime he is divested of
all his Masonic rights, except that of appeal.
75 -
What is the Grand Master's prerogative with respect to appointments?
Appointments, Grand Master's Prerogative of.
The right of appointment is a prerogative of the Grand Master. By the old
usages - for I find no written law upon the subject - the Grand Master
appointed the Deputy Grand Master, who is hence always styled "his Deputy."
The Regulations of 1721 also gave him the nomination of the Grand Wardens, who
were then to be installed, if the nomination was unanimously approved by the
Grand Lodge, but if not, an election was to be held. The Grand Secretary, at
the first establishment of the office in 1723, was elected by the Grand Lodge,
but all subsequent appointments were made by the Grand Master. The Grand
Treasurer was, however, always an elective office.
MASONRY DEFINED 117
In
England, under its present Constitution, the Grand Master appoints all the
officers of the Grand Lodge, except the Grand Treasurer. In America, the
prerogative of appointment, which was vested by ancient usage in the Grand
Master, has been greatly abridged, and is now restricted to the nomination of
some of the subordinate officers of the Grand Lodge. The Deputy, the Wardens,
the Treasurer and Secretary are now elected by the Grand Lodge. In view of the
fact that none of the officers of the Grand Lodge, except the Grand Master,
owe their existence to a Landmark, but are all the creatures of regulations,
adopted from time to time, and in view, too, of the other important fact that
regulations on the subject were continually changing, so that we find an
officer at one time appointed, and at another time elected, I am constrained
to believe that the right of appointment is one of the few prerogatives of the
Grand Master, which is not inherent in his office, but which is subject to the
regulation of the Grand Lodge.
76 -
Who has the prerogative of appointing the junior officers of a Lodge?
Appointment of Junior Officers.
The appointing power constitutes an important prerogative of the Master of a
Lodge. In England, he appoints all the officers, except the Treasurer and
Tiler; but in this country the power of appointment is restricted to that of
the Senior Deacon, and in some Lodges, of the Tiler. As the Senior Deacon is
the proxy of the Master in the discharge of his duties, there seems to be a
peculiar propriety in placing the selection of that officer in his hands, and
for a similar reason, it is advisable that he should also have the appointment
of the Tiler.
77 -
Who has the right to appoint substitute officers in the absence of appointive
officers of a Lodge?
Appointment of Substitute Officers.
The Master of the Lodge has the right, during the temporary absence of any
officer, to appoint a substitute for the meeting. It has been supposed by some
that this power of appointment is restricted to the elective officers, and
that during the absence of the Junior Deacon, the Junior pro tern pore must be
appointed by the Senior Warden; and in like manner, during the absence of any
one of the Stewards, the substitute must be appointed by the Junior Warden.
And this opinion is founded on the doctrine that as the permanent Junior
Deacon and Stewards are respectively appointed by the Senior and Junior
Wardens, their temporary substitutes must be appointed by the same officers;
but if this argument were good, then, as the Wardens themselves are elected by
the Lodge, it would follow, by a parity of reasoning, that in the absence of
either of these officers, the substitute could not be appointed by the Master,
but must be elected by the Lodge. In case of the death of a Junior Deacon
where a dis‑Pensation for the appointment of a new one has been granted, it is
VVVIim~.,,,~,1.
118 MASONRY DEFINED
evident that that appointment would vest in the Senior Warden; but all
temporary appointments are exclusively made by the Worshipful Master, for the
appointing power is one of his prerogatives.
78 -
What is the symbolism of the Masonic Apron?
Apron.
There is no one of the symbols of Speculative Masonry more important in its
teachings, or more interesting in its history, than the lambskin, or white
leather apron. Its lessons commence at an early period in the Mason's
progress, and it is impressed upon his memory as the first gift which he
receives, the first symbol which is explained to him, and the first tangible
evidence which he possesses of his ad‑mission into the Fraternity. Whatever
may be his future advancement in the "royal art," into whatsoever deeper
arcana his devotion to the mystic Institution or his thirst for knowledge may
subsequently lead him, with the lambskin apron - his first investiture - he
never parts. Changing, perhaps, its form and its decorations, and conveying,
at each step, some new but still beautiful allusion, its substance is still
there, and it continues to claim the honored title by which it was first made
known to him, on the night of his initiation, as "the badge of a Mason." In
the Masonic apron two things are essential to the due preservation of its
symbolic character - its color and its material.
1. As
to its color. The color of a Mason's apron should be pure unspotted white.
This color has, in all ages and countries, been esteemed an emblem of
innocence and purity. It was with this reference that a portion of the
vestments of the Jewish priesthood was directed to be white. In the Ancient
Mysteries the candidate was always clothed in white. "The priests of the
Romans," says Festus, "were accustomed to wear white garments when they
sacrificed." In the Scandinavian rites it has been seen that the shield
presented to the candidate was white. The Druids changed the color of the
garment presented to their initiates with each degree; white, however, was the
color appropriated to the last, or degree of perfection. And it was, according
to their ritual, intended to teach the aspirant that none were admitted to
that honor but such as were cleansed from all impurities both of body and
mind. In the early ages of the Christian church a white garment was always
placed upon the catechumen who had been newly baptized, to denote that he had
been cleansed from his former sins, and was thenceforth to lead a life of
purity. Hence it was presented to him with this solemn charge: "Receive the
white and undefiled garment and produce it unspotted before the tribunal of
our Lord Jesus Christ, that you may obtain eternal life." From all these
instances we learn that white apparel was anciently used as an emblem of
purity, and for this reason the color has been preserved in the apron of the
Freemason.
2. As
to its material. A Mason's apron must be made of lambskin. No other substance,
such as linen, silk, or satin, could be substituted
MASONRY DEFINED 119
without entirely destroying the emblematic character of the apron, for the
material of the Mason's apron constitutes one of the most important symbols of
his profession. The lamb has always been considered as an appropriate emblem
of innocence. And hence we are taught, in the ritual of the first degree,
that, "by the lambskin, the Mason is reminded of that purity of life and
rectitude of conduct which is so essentially necessary to his gaining
admission into the Celestial Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of the
Universe forever presides."
79 -
What is the relation of architecture to Masonry?
Architecture.
Architecture is one of the first occupations in which man employed himself.
How astonishingly has the science of architecture improved and how honored now
and respected is an experienced architect! The science commenced with
miserable huts; the next step was to erect altars on which to offer sacrifices
to the gods; regular dwellings followed next in rotation, after which, in
rapid succession, came palaces for princes, bridges over the most rapid
streams to facilitate communication; pyramids and towers, proudly pointing to
the heavens; catacombs of nearly immeasurable dimensions for the interment of
their dead; and the most gorgeous temples in honor of the Great Architect of
heaven and earth. Thus we have adopted the title of Masons from one of the
most ancient and most honorable occupations of mankind, in allusion to the
antiquity of our Order. The working tools of an operative Mason have become
our symbols, because we can find no better or more expressive ones. No
occupation is so widely extended; and so closely connected with others, as
that of a Mason; and the various paths by which mankind strive to gain an
entrance into the imperishable temple are innumerable.
80 -
For what were the pillars "BOAZ" and "JACHIN" used?
Archives.
Our traditions state that the hollow of the cylinder of these pillars, Jachin
and Boaz, was used as archives of Masonry, and contained the sacred rolls
which comprised the history of the Hebrew nation, their civil and religious
polity, the works of the prophetical and inspired writers, and the complete
system of universal science.
81 -
What was the Ark of the Covenant and for what was it used?
Ark of the Covenant.
The Ark of Covenant or of the Testimony was a chest originally constructed by
Moses at God's command (Exod. aay. 16), in which were kept the two tables of
stone, on which were engraved the ten commandments. It contained, likewise, a
golden pot filled with manna, Aaron's rod, and the tables of the covenant. It
Was at first deposited in the most sacred place in the tabernacle, and
afterwards placed by Solomon in the Sanctum Sanctorum of the Temple, but was
lost upon the destruction of that building by the Chaldeans.
120 MASONRY DEFINED
The
later history of this ark is buried in obscurity. It is supposed that, upon
the destruction of the first Temple by the Chaldeans, it was carried to
Babylon among the other sacred utensils which became the spoil of the
conquerors. But of its subsequent fate all traces have been lost. It is,
however, certain that it was not brought back to Jerusalem by Zerubbabel. The
Talmudists say that there were five things which were the glory of the first
Temple that were wanting in the second; namely, the Ark of the Covenant, the
Shekinah, or Divine Presence, the Urim and Thummim, the holy fire upon the
altar, and the spirit of prophecy.
The
ark was made of shittim wood, overlaid, within and without, with pure gold. It
was about three feet nine inches long, two feet three inches wide, and of the
same extent in depth. It had on the side two rings of gold, through which were
placed staves of shittim wood, by which, when necessary, it was borne by the
Levites. Its covering was of pure gold, over which were placed two figures
called cherubim, with expanded wings. The covering of the ark was called
kaphiret, from kaphar, "to forgive sin," and hence its English name of
"mercy‑seat," as being the place where the intercession for sin was made.
The
researches of archeologists in the last few years have thrown much light on
the Egyptian mysteries. Among the ceremonies of that ancient people was one
called the Procession of Shrines, which is mentioned in the Rosetta stone, and
depicted on the Temple walls. One of these shrines was an ark, which was
carried in procession by the priests, who supported it on their shoulders by
staves passing through metal rings. It was thus brought into the Temple and
deposited on a stand or altar, that the ceremonies prescribed in the ritual
might be performed before it. The contents of these arks were various, but
always of a mystical character. Sometimes the ark would contain symbols of
Life and Stability; sometimes the sacred beetle, the symbol of the Sun; and
there was always a representation of two figures of the goddess Theme, or
Truth and Justice, which overshadowed the ark with their wings. These
coincidences of the Egyptian and Hebrew arks must have been more than
accidental.
82 -
What armorial bearings have been borne by Freemasons?
Arms of Freemasonry.
The armorial bearings of the order have undergone some changes in the lapse of
ages. They are described in several works on heraldry as follows. The Company
of Masons, being otherwise termed Freemasons of ancient standing, and good
reckoning by means of affable and kind meetings, at divers times did frequent
this mutual assembly in the time of King Henry IV., viz.: the 12th of his
reign. Their arms, azure on a chevron, between three castles, argent, a pair
of compasses somewhat extended of the first, were granted by William Hawkslow,
Clarencieux King of Arms. - Guilliam. The Arms
MASONRY DEFINED 121
of the
Operative or Stone Masons. Azure on a chevron between three castles argent, a
pair of compasses somewhat extended of the first. Crest, an arm extended,
grasping a trowel, proper. Supporters, two beavers, proper: - Dermott. The
arms of the Grand Lodge of England are used by several of the Grand Lodges of
this country, and are similar to those adopted by Royal Arch Masons, which are
described as follows: Party per cross vert, voided or; in the first quarter
azure, a lion ram‑pant or, for the tribe of Judah, in the second or, an ox
passant sable, for Ephraim; in the third or, a man erect proper, for Reuben;
in the fourth azure, a spread eagle or, for Dan. Crest, an ark of the
covenant; supporters, two cherubim, all proper; motto, Holiness to the Lord.
The banners which adorn the Royal Arch Chapters of England, representing the
twelve tribes of Israel, are as follows: Scarlet, a lion couchant, for Judah;
blue, an ass crouching beneath its burden, for Issachar; purple, a ship, for
Zebulon; yellow, a sword, for Simeon; white, a troop of horsemen, for Gad;
green, an ox, for Ephraim; flesh‑color, a vine, by the side of a wall, for
Manasseh; green, a wolf, for Benjamin; purple, a cup, for Asher; blue, a hind,
for Naphtali; green, an eagle, for Dan.
83 -
How were the 18th Century Lodges arranged?
Arrangement.
The appointment and arrangement of a Masonic Lodge‑room in the eighteenth
century were very different to our present practice. A long table was extended
from one end of the room to the other, covered with a green cloth, on which
were placed duplicates of the ornaments, furniture and jewels, intermixed with
Masonic glasses for refreshment. At one end of this table was placed the
Master's pedestal, and at the other that of the Senior Warden, while about the
middle of the table, in the south, the Junior Warden was placed. The brethren
sat round as at a common ordinary. When there was a candidate to be initiated,
he was paraded outside the whole; and, on such occasions, after he had been
safely deposited at the north‑east angle of the Lodge, he was given a very
short explanation of the design of Free‑masonry, or a brief portion of the
lecture, before the Lodge wasòcalled from labor to refreshment. The song, the
toast, the sentiment, went merrily round, and it was not until the brethren
were tolerably satiated that the Lodge was resumed, and the routine business
transacted before closing.
84 ‑
What is the status of a Lodge whose warrant has been arrested?
Arrest of Warrant.
When a Grand Master suspends the labors of a Lodge, he is usually said "to
arrest the warrant." There is no objection to the phrase, if its signification
is properly understood. "To arrest the warrant of a Lodge" is simply to forbid
its communications, and to prevent its members from congregating for the
purposes of Masonic labor or business, under the authority of the warrant. But
122 MASONRY DEFINED
otherwise the condition of the Lodge remains unchanged. It does not forfeit
its funds or property, and its members continue in good standing in the Order;
and should the decree of arrest by the Grand Master be reversed by the Grand
Lodge, it resumes its functions just as if no such suspension or arrest had
occurred. I have no doubt that the Grand Master cannot demand the delivery of
the warrant into his custody; for having been intrusted to the Master,
Wardens, and their successors, by the Grand Lodge, the Master, who is the
proper custodian of it, has no right to surrender it to any one except to that
body from whom it emanated. The "arrest of the warrant" is only a decree of
the Grand Master in the character of an injunction, by which he forbids the
Lodge to meet until the complaints preferred against it can be investigated
and adjudicated by the Grand Lodge.
85 -
In what degree are the seven liberal arts and sciences explained?
Arts, Liberal.
The seven liberal arts and sciences are Grammar, Rhetoric, Arithmetic, Logic,
Music, Geometry, and Astronomy. They are beautifully explained in the second,
or Felloweraft's, degree.
86 -
How does a Fellowcraft ascend to receive his wages?
Ascent.
The ascent of a Fellowcraft, when he goes to receive his wages, is by a
staircase of five divisions, referring to the five orders of architecture, and
the five senses. These are the several links of that powerful chain which
binds us to the works of the creation, where‑with we can have no connection
without those feelings which result from the delicate mechanism of the ear,
the eye, the smell, the palate, and the touch.
87 -
Of what is the Ashlar emblematic?
Ashlar.
"Freestone as it comes out of the quarry." In Speculative Masonry we adopt the
ashlar in two different states, as symbols in the Apprentice's degree. The
Rough Ashlar, or stone in its rude and unpolished condition, is emblematic of
man in his natural state - ignorant, uncultivated and vicious. But when
education has exerted its wholesome influence in expanding his intellect,
restraining his passions, and purifying his life, he then is represented by
the Perfect Ashlar, which, under the skilful hands of the workmen, has been
smoothed, and squared, and fitted for its place in the building. In the older
lectures of the eighteenth century the Perfect Ashlar is not mentioned, but
its place was supplied by the Broached Thurnal.
88 -
What name is applied to a seeker of Masonic light?
Aspirant.
A seeker of Masonic light, who has applied for admission to the mysteries of
the Order, and, having been accepted, is pre‑paring himself for the induction.
MASONRY DEFINED 123
89 -
Of what is the ass an emblem?
Ass.
An emblem of stupidity and ignorance. In the Egyptian system it represented
the unitiated, ignorant, and profane.
90 -
Why cannot an atheist become a Freemason?
Atheist.
One who denies the existence of a God, or of a supreme intelligent being. The
old charges declare that a Mason is obliged by his tenure to obey the moral
law and, if he rightly understands the art, he will never be a stupid atheist.
A belief in God is one of the unwritten landmarks of the Order.
91 -
What is the duty of a Mason in respect to attendance at his Lodge?
Attendance.
Every brother ought to belong to some regular lodge, and should always appear
therein properly clothed, truly subjecting himself to all its by‑laws and the
general regulations. He must attend all meetings, when duly summoned, unless
he can offer to the Master and Wardens such plea of necessity for his absence
as the said laws and regulations may admit. By the ancient rules and usages of
Masonry, which are generally adopted among the by‑laws of every lodge, no plea
was judged sufficient to excuse any absentee, unless he could satisfy the
lodge that he was detained by some extraordinary and unforeseen necessity.
92 -
Under what circumstances is it necessary for a Lodge to submit an attested
copy of charges against a member?
Attested Copy of Charges.
In event of a Masonic trial, in order that the Grand Lodge may be enabled to
come to a just conclusion on the merits of the question, it is necessary that
the Lodge should furnish an attested copy of the charge or charges, and of the
proceedings on the trial, and this it is bound to do.
93 -
In what city are some of the best examples of operative Masonry to be found?
Augustan Style.
It was during the reign of Augustus that the learned Vitruvius became by his
admirable writings the father of true architecture. This imperial patron first
employed his Fellowcrafts in repairing or rebuilding all public edifices, much
neglected, if not injured, during the civil wars. In the golden days of
Augustus, the patricians, following his example, built above a hundred marble
palaces at Rome, fit for princes; and every substantial citizen rebuilt his
house in marble. All united in the same disposition of adorning Rome, so that
Augustus, when dying, justly said, "I found Rome built of brick, but I leave
it built of marble!" Hence it is, that in the remains of ancient Rome are the
best patterns of true Masonry extant, an epitome of old Grecian architecture,
now commonly expressed by the Augustan style, in which are united wisdom,
strength, and beauty.
124 MASONRY DEFINED
94 -
What regulations govern Masonic avouchments?
Avouchment.
The regulations by which avouchments are to be governed appear to be three:
1. A
Mason may vouch for another, if he has sat in a Lodge with him.
2. He
may vouch for him if he has subjected him to a skillful private examination.
3. He
may also vouch for him if he has received positive information of his Masonic
character from a competent and reliable Brother.
Of
these three, the first is the safest, and the last the most dangerous. And in
all of them it is essential that the voucher should be a skillful Mason, for
it is better to subject the visitor to a formal examination, than to take the
avouchment of an ignorant Brother, though he may declare that he has sat in
the Lodge with the person desirous of being admitted. In fact, the third kind
of avouchment by an eminently skillful Mason is safer than the first kind by
an ignorant one.
95 -
May a Master Mason lawfully vouch for a visitor on the authority of another?
Avouchment at Second Hand.
There may be sometimes an avouchment at second hand. Thus A may be enabled to
vouch for C, on the information derived from B. But in this case it is
essential to its validity that the avouchment should have been made when the
whole three were present. Thus it is not admissible that B should inform A
that a certain person named C, who is then absent, is a Master Mason. A
cannot, upon this information, subsequently vouch for C. There may be some
mistake or misunderstanding in the identity of the person spoken of. A may
have been referring to one individual and B to another. And the person
afterwards vouched for by A may prove to be entirely different from the one
intended by B. But if B, in the presence of C, shall say to A, "I know this
person C to be a Master Mason," or words to that effect, then it is competent
for A to repeat this avouchment as his own, because he will thus have de‑rived
"lawful information" of the fact.
But
here again the same principle of competency must be observed, and B must not
only be known to A to be a skillful and experienced Mason, incapable of being
imposed upon, but A must him‑self be a fitting judge of that skill and
experience.
This
second‑hand avouchment is, however, always dangerous, and should be practised
with great caution, and only by eminently skillful Masons. It is to be viewed
rather as an exception to the general rule, and as such is generally to be
avoided, although between Masons of great learning and experience, it may
sometimes be a perfectly safe dependence.
MASONRY DEFINED 125
96 -
Why was King Solomon's temple built without the use of iron tools?
Axe.
In the construction of King Solomon's Temple, every piece of timber, stone, or
metal, was brought ready cut, framed, and polished, to Jerusalem; so that no
other tools were wanted or heard than were necessary to join the several parts
together. All the noise of axe, hammer, and saw was confined to Lebanon, the
quarries and the plains of Zeredatha, that nothing might be heard among the
Masons of Zion save harmony and peace.
97 -
What is the color appropriate to symbolic Masonry?
Azure.
Sky‑blue. The appropriate color of the symbolic Lodge. A favorite color in
heraldry; employed in blazonry. The Grand Lodge of England has adopted Garter
Blue, the color of the Order of the Garter.
98 -
What punishment was meted out to the Jews who failed to keep the ordinances of
Jehovah?
Babylonish Captivity.
The Jews had fallen into great errors and corruptions, and were guilty of the
most abominable sins; wherefore Jehovah, in his wrath, denounced heavy
judgments against them by Jeremiah and other prophets, declaring that their
fruitful land should be spoiled, their city become desolate and an
abomination, and them‑selves and their descendants feel the effects of his
displeasure for the space of seventy years, which commenced in the fourth year
of the reign of Jehoiachim, A. L. 3398.
99 -
What is the symbolism of the fourth point of fellowship?
Back.
Freemasonry, borrowing its symbols from every source, has not neglected to
make a selection of certain parts of the human body. From the back an
important lesson is derived, which is fittingly developed in the third degree.
Hence, in reference to this symbolism, Oliver says: "It is a duty incumbent on
every Mason to support a brother's character in his absence equally as though
he were present; not to revile him behind his back, nor suffer it to be done
by others without using every necessary attempt to prevent it." And
Hutchinson, referring to the same symbolic ceremony, says: "The most material
part of that brotherly love which should subsist among Masons is that of
speaking well of each other to the world; more especially it is expected of
every member of this Fraternity that he should not traduce a brother. Calumny
and slander are detestable crimes against society. Nothing can be viler than
to traduce a man behind his back; it is like the villany of an assassin who
has not virtue enough to give his adversary the means of self‑defense, but,
lurking in darkness, stabs him whilst he is unarmed and unsuspicious bf an
enemy."
126 MASONRY DEFINED
100 -
What is the badge of a Master Mason and why?
Badge.
Johnson defines a badge as "a mark of cognizance worn to show the relation of
the wearer to any person or thing." The badge of a Mason is his apron‑‑an
emblem of innocence and purity. It was originally a skin of plain white
leather. In 1730 it was regulated in Grand Lodge that the Grand Officers
should "wear white leather aprons with blue silk; and that the Masters and
Wardens of particular lodges may line their white leather aprons with white
silk, and may hang their jewels at white ribbons about their necks." At
present in England a Master Mason wears a lambskin apron with sky‑blue lining
and edging, one inch and a half deep, with a rosette on the fall or flap. No
other color or ornament is allowed, except to officers or past officers of
lodges.
101 -
What is the symbolism of the canopy over the Master's chair?
Baldachin.
The canopy over the oriental chair in the Master's Lodge also denotes the
covering of the Lodge itself. Both are symbols of the star‑decked heavens, and
signs of the universality of Free‑masonry. In Pritchard's catechism we meet
with the following: "What has the Lodge for a covering`?" Answer: "The vaulted
skies of various colors, or the clouds." It is remarked by Krause that the
"sense of this beautiful system of symbols is not'well understood. Some think
that the primitive Lodge was not covered above, and that the skies were
literally its covering; hence the ceiling of a Lodge room is generally made to
represent the celestial planisphere." The Baldachin, in this sense, is also a
symbol of the extent of Free‑masonry; for as the skies, with their troops of
stars, spread over all regions of the earth, so Freemasonry holds in its
embrace all the world, and reaches through all time.
102 -
What is the proper method of conducting the ballot?
Ballot,
Method of. Before proceeding to any further inquiry into the laws concerning
the ballot, it will be proper to explain the mode in which the ballot is to be
taken.
In
some jurisdictions, it is the custom for the Senior Deacon to carry the box
containing the ballots around the Lodge room, when each officer and member
having taken out of it a white and black ball, it is again carried around
empty, and each Brother then de‑posits the ball of that color which he prefers
- white being always a token of consent, and black of dissent. The box is then
inspected by the Master, or by the Master and Wardens, and the result
declared, after which the Deacon again goes around and collects the remaining
balls.
I have
always objected to this method, not because the opinion of the Lodge was not
thus as effectually declared as in any other, but
MASONRY DEFINED 127
because there seemed to be a want of solemnity in this mode of per‑forming an
important duty. I therefore prefer the more formal ceremony practiced in some
other jurisdictions, and which may be thus described: The ballot box,
containing two compartments, one holding a number of black and white balls,
and the other empty, is first exhibited to the Junior Warden, then to the
Senior, and afterwards to the Master, that these officers may be satisfied
that the compartment which should be empty is really so. This compartment is
then closed. A hole, however, in the top of the box communicates with it,
which is for the purpose of permitting the balls deposited by the voters to be
dropped in. The compartment containing the white and black balls
indiscriminately is left open, and the Senior Deacon, having placed the box
upon the altar, retires to his seat.
The
roll of members is then called by the Secretary, beginning with the Master,
and as each Brother's name is called, he advances to the altar, masonically
salutes the East, deposits his ball taken from the compartment lying open
before him through the hole in the top of the closed compartment, and then
retires to his seat.
When
all the officers and members have voted, the Senior Deacon takes the box from
the altar, and submits it to the inspection of the Junior and Senior Wardens
and the Master, when, if all the ballots prove to be white, the box is
pronounced "clear," and the candidate is declared elected. If, however, there
is one black ball only, the box is pronounced "foul," and the Master orders a
new ballot, which is done in the same form, because it may be possible that
the negative vote was deposited by mistake or inadvertence. If, however, on
the second ballot, the one black ball again appears, the candidate is declared
by the Master to be rejected. If, on the first ballot, two or more black balls
appear, the candidate is announced as having been rejected, without the
formality of a second ballot.
103 -
Has a Grand Master power to order reconsideration of a ballot?
Ballot, Reconsideration of.
Neither the Grand Master nor the Grand Lodge has the power, under any
circumstances whatever, to order a reconsideration of a ballot. Everything
concerning the ad‑mission or rejection of candidates is placed exclusively in
the Lodge. The Regulations of 1721 declare this to be "an inherent privilege
not subject to dispensation."
104 -
Has a Mason the right to announce how he has cast his ballot for a candidate?
Ballot, Secrecy of the.
The secrecy of the ballot is as essential to its perfection as its unanimity
or its independence. If the vote were to be given viva voce, it is impossible
that the improper influbnces of fear or interest should not sometimes be
exerted, and timid
128 MASONRY DEFINED
members be induced to vote contrary to the dictates of their reason and
conscience. Hence, to secure secrecy and protect the purity of choice, it has
been wisely established as a usage, not only that the vote shall be taken by
ballot, but that there shall be no subsequent discussion on the subject. Not
only has no member a right to inquire how his fellows have voted, but he may
not explain his own vote. The reason of this is evident. If one member has a
right to rise in his place and announce that he deposited a white ball, then
every other member has the same right; and in a Lodge of twenty members, where
an application has been rejected by one black ball, if nineteen members state
that they did not deposit it, the inference is clear that the twentieth
Brother has done so, and thus the secrecy of the ballot is at once destroyed.
The rejection having been announced from the Chair, the Lodge should at once
proceed to other business, and it is the sacred duty of the presiding
officer.peremptorily and promptly to check any discussion on the subject.
Nothing must be done to impair the inviolable secrecy of the ballot.
105 -
Do the members of a lodge under dispensation have the right of ballot on
candidates?
Ballot Under Dispensation.
I am perfectly aware that it is the general rule for all the brethren present
to ballot for candidates in Lodges under dispensation; but the question is
not, what is the usage, but what is the law which should govern the usage? The
balloting may take place in such a Lodge, but it must be remembered,. if we
are to be governed by the principles and inferences of law, that each Brother,
when he deposits his ball, does so, not by any legal right that he possesses,
but simply by the courtesy of the Master and Wardens, who have adopted this
convenient method of consulting the opinions and obtaining the counsel of
their brethren, for their own satisfaction. All ballots held in a Lodge under
dispensation are, except as regards the votes of the Master and Wardens,
informal.
106 -
How should Lodge officers wear their jewels?
Band.
A ribbon worn around the neck of the officers of Grand Lodges, and also of
individual Lodges, to which are attached the official jewels. The color of the
band differs in different Lodges, but blue is most common.
107 -
Should the Worshipful Master be present at Masonic banquets?
Banquet.
After the closing of some lodges for initiations or festivals, and also upon
special occasions, a banquet is held, that is to say, the brethren assemble
for recreation and refreshment at a supper. But if the brethren merely meet to
eat and drink, then the appellation Masonic banquet is not appropriate. Eating
and earnest Masonic discourses or appeals for charitable purposes to the
brethren should
MASONRY DEFINED 129
be so
blended together as to produce a beautiful and harmonious evening's
entertainment; for this reason the officers of the Lodge, at least the
Worshipful Master, Wardens, and Master of the Ceremonies, or his substitute,
should be present.
108 -
What is the symbolism of pulling off the shoes?
Bare Feet.
Nakedness of feet was a sign of mourning. God says to Ezekiel, "Make no
mourning for the dead, and put on thy shoes upon thy feet." It was likewise a
mark of respect. Moses put off his shoes to approach the burning bush; the
priests served in the Tabernacle with their feet naked, as they did afterwards
in the Temple. The Talmudists teach that if they had but stepped with their
feet upon a cloth, a skin, or even upon the foot of one of their companions,
their service would have been unlawful.
Putting off the shoes has a threefold signification in Scripture. First, it
was usual to put them off in token of mourning and grief, as David is said to
have gone from Jerusalem barefoot, when he fled from Absalom. Second, it
signified the yielding of one's right to an‑other, and is so prescribed in
Deuteronomy, and matured by Boaz. Third, it was a token of respect and
reverence, as appears by the com. mand of God to Moses, and the reason
assigned for it was that the ground whereon he stood was holy, or sanctified
by God's immediate presence.
109 -
What is a Basilica?
Basilica.
By this name market‑houses and halls of justice, erected after the fashion of
religious edifices and Christian churches, were called in the middle ages.
These buildings were of an oblong rectangular form, with a semicircular niche
at one end. Anderson, in his Book of Constitutions, remarks that "Our modern
temple has arisen from the Basilica, having the same interior arch."
110 -
What is the badge of a Marshal of a Lodge?
Baton.
A staff or truncheon, about two feet long, generally ornamented or gilt at
each end, and the middle enveloped in a scroll. It is usually carried in the
right hand, and is the distinguishing mark or emblem of authority of Marshals
in Masonic and other processions. The badge of a Marshal in a subordinate
Lodge is two crossed batons, and that of the Marshal in the Grand Lodge two
crossed batons en‑circled in a wreath.
111 -
Why do Masons cultivate order, harmony and beauty?
Beauty.
The Freemason is a true admirer of all the liberal arts and sciences, but he
much more admires a beauty of his own, which stands as fast as the pillars of
the earth - is immovable and immortal. All our working tools are given to us
to find out symmetry, propor‑
130 MASONRY DEFINED
tion,
and applicability. We are conducted by every step in our Order to order and
harmony, the very being of beauty. We do not crawl in loathsome caverns, but
our places of meeting are beautiful halls. The outward tokens and clothing of
our Order are composed of the most beautiful colors. We refuse neither silk
nor metal in our jewels; we rejoice in the purity of the clothing of our
Order; but more especially we endeavor to make the spirit of true beauty shine
in our assemblies, and not to allow it to degenerate into a lifeless
appearance.
112 -
Of what is the beehive emblematic?
Beehive.
The beehive is an emblem of industry, and recommends the practice of that
virtue to all created beings, from the highest seraph in heaven to the lowest
reptile in the dust. It teaches us that as we came into the world rational and
intelligent beings, so we should ever be industrious ones; never sitting down,
contented while our fellow‑creatures around us are in want, if it is in our
power to relieve them without inconvenience to ourselves.
113 -
What is the ethical code of Freemasonry?
Behavior.
The subject of a Mason's behavior is one that occupies much attention in both
the ritualistic and the monitorial instructions of the Order. In "the Charges
of a Freemason," extracted from the ancient records, and first published in
the Constitutions of
1723,
the sixth article is exclusively appropriated to the subject of "Behavior." It
is divided into six sections, as follows:
1.
Behavior in the Lodge while constituted.
2.
Behavior after the Lodge is over and the Brethren not gone.
3.
Behavior when Brethren meet without strangers, but not in a Lodge formed.
4.
Behavior in presence of strangers not Masons.
5.
Behavior at home and in your neighborhood.
6.
Behavior towards a strange brother.
The
whole article constitutes a code of ethical conduct remarkable for the purity
of the principles it inculcates, and is well worthy of the close attention of
every Mason. It is a complete refutation of the slanders of anti‑Masonic
revilers. These charges are to be found in all the editions of the Book of
Constitutions, and in many recent Masonic works which are readily accessible
to everyone who desires to read them.
114 -
Upon what scriptural basis are the lectures of Freemasonry largely founded?
Belief.
The most prominent scriptural teachings upon which Free‑masonry bases its
lectures are these: that there is a God; that he created man, and placed him
in a state of perfect happiness in Paradise; that he forfeited this supreme
felicity by disobedience to the divine commands at the suggestion of a serpent
tempter; that, to alleviate his repentent contrition, a divine revelation was
communicated MASONRY DEFINED 131 to him, that in process of time a
Saviour should appear in the world to atone for their sin, and place their
posterity in a condition of restoration to his favor; that for the increasing
wickedness of man, God sent a deluge to purge the earth of its corruptions;
and when it was again repeopled, he renewed his gracious covenant with several
of the patriarchs; delivered his people from Egypt; led them in the
wilderness; and in the Mosaic dispensation gave more clear indications of the
Messiah by a succession of prophets, extending throughout the entire theocracy
and monarchy; that he instituted a tabernacle and temple worship which
contained the most indisputable types of the religion which the Messiah should
reveal and promulgate; and that when the appointed time arrived, God sent his
only begotten Son to instruct them, who was born at Bethlehem, as the prophets
had fore‑told, in the reign of Herod (who was not of the Jewish royal line,
nor even a Jew), of a pure virgin of the family of David.
115 -
How were the Fellowcrafts employed in the building of King Solo‑ mon's temple?
Benai.
The Benai, who were setters, layers, or builders at the erection of King
Solomon's Temple, were able and ingenious Fellow‑crafts, who were distributed
by Solomon into separate lodges, with a Master and Warden in each, that they
might receive commands in a regular manner, take care of their tools and
jewels, be paid every week, and be duly fed and clothed, that the work might
proceed with harmony and order.
116 -
Of what do the charities of the Masonic order (in part) consist?
Benefits.
The Society expends thousands of dollars every year in the relief of the
virtuous distressed. Nor can the existence of these benefits be denied, for
they are open and undisguised. The relief of widows and orphans, and of aged
Masons in want, youth of both sexes educated and trained to a life of
usefulness and virtue, the stream of charity disseminated through every class
of wretchedness and misery - all these are so evident, that none can doubt the
benefits of the institution. Those who decry it are fighting against truth,
and condemn by their writings what their conscience secretly approves.
117 -
Do we betray Masonic secrets?
Betraying.
By a full and fair exposition of our great leading principles, we betray no
masonic secrets; these are safely locked up in the heart of every Mason, and
are never to be imparted except in a constitutional manner. But our leading
tenets are no secrets. It is no secret that Masonry is of divine origin; it is
no secret that the system embraces and inculcates evangelical truth; it is no
secret that there is no duty enjoined nor virtue required in the volume of
inspiration, but what is found in, and taught by, Speculative Free‑
132 MASONRY DEFINED
masonry; it is no secret that the appropriate name of God has been preserved
in this institution in every country where Masonry existed, while the rest of
the world was literally sunk in heathenism; and above all, it is not, neither
can it be, a secret, that a good Mason is, of necessity, truly and
emphatically a good man and citizen.
118 -
What is the relation of the Bible to Freemasonry?
Bible.
The Bible is properly called a great light of Masonry, for from the center of
the Lodge it pours forth upon the East, the West, and the South its refulgent
rays of Divine truth. The Bible is used among Masons as the symbol of the will
of God however it may be expressed. And, therefore, whatever book expresses to
any people God's will may be used in a Masonic Lodge as a substitute for the
Bible. Thus, in a Lodge consisting entirely of Jews, the Old Testament alone
may be placed upon the altar. And Turkish Masons make use of the Koran.
Whether it be the Gospels of the Christian, the Pentateuch to the Israelite,
the Koran to the Mussulman, or the Vedas to the Brahman, the Book of the Law
everywhere conveys the same Masonic idea - that of the symbolism of the Divine
Will revealed to man.
The
history of the Masonic symbolism of the Bible is interesting. Although
referred to in the manuscripts before the revival as the book upon which the
covenant was taken, it was never referred to as a great light. In the oldest
ritual that we have, that of 1724, - a copy of which from the Royal Library of
Berlin is given by Krause, - there is no mention of the Bible as one of the
lights. Preston made it a part of the furniture of the Lodge; but in rituals
of about 1760 it is de‑scribed as one of the three great lights. In the
American system, the Bible is both a piece of furniture and a great light.
119 -
Is a candidate for Masonry required to believe in the divine authen‑ ticity of
the Scriptures?
Bible, Requirement of.
Within a few years an attempt has been made by some Grand Lodges to add to the
simple, moral, and religious qualifications, another, which requires a belief
in the divine authenticity of the Scriptures. It is much to be regretted that
Masons will sometimes forget the fundamental law of their institution, and
endeavor to add to or to detract from the perfect integrity of the building,
as it was left to them by their predecessors. Whenever this is done, the
beauty of our temple must suffer. The Landmarks of Masonry are so perfect that
they neither need nor will permit of the slightest amendment. Thus in the very
instance here referred to, the fundamental law of Masonry requires only a
belief in the Supreme Architect of the universe, and in a future life, while
it says, with peculiar toleration, that in all other matters of religious
belief, Masons are only expected to be of that religion in which all men
MASONRY DEFINED 133
agree,
leaving their particular opinions to themselves. Under the shelter of this
wise provision, the Christian and the Jew, the Mohammedan and the Brahman, are
permitted to unite around our common altar, and Masonry becomes, in practice
as well as in theory, universal. The truth is, that Masonry is undoubtedly a
religious institution - its religion being of that universal kind in which all
men agree, and which, handed down through a long succession of ages, from that
ancient priesthood who first taught it, embraces the great tenets of the
existence of God and the immortality of the soul - tenets which, by its
peculiar symbolic language, it has preserved from its foundation, and still
continues, in the same beautiful way, to teach. Beyond this, for its religious
faith, we must not and cannot go.
It
may, then, I think, be laid down as good Masonic law, with respect to the
moral and religious qualifications of candidates, that they are required to be
men of good moral character, believing in the existence of God and in a future
state. These are all the moral qualifications that can be demanded, but each
of them is essential.
120 -
What do the colors, black and white, symbolize?
Black.
Among the Athenians, black was the color of affliction, and white of
innocence, joy, and purity. The Arabs give to black a signification evidently
derived from traditions of initiation. It designates among the Moors grief,
despair, obscurity, and constancy. Black, in blazon named sable, signifies
prudence, wisdom, and constancy in adversity and woe. Hence the mosaic work of
a Mason's lodge.
121 -
Is the rule that one black ball rejects of universal application?
Black Balls.
What number of black balls is necessary to constitute a rejection? Here we are
entirely without the guidance of any express law, as all the Ancient
Constitutions are completely silent upon the subject. It seems to me, however,
that in the advancement of an Apprentice, as well as in the election of a
profane, the ballot should be unanimous. This is strictly in accordance with
the principles of Masonry, which require unanimity in admission, lest improper
persons be intruded, and harmony impaired. Greater qualifications are
certainly not required of a profane applying for initiation than of an
Apprentice seeking advancement; nor can I see any reason why the test of those
qualifications should not be as rigid in the one case as in the other. I am
constrained therefore to believe, notwithstanding the adverse decision of the
Grand Lodge of Wisconsin in 1849 that on the application of an Entered
Apprentice for advancement to the second degree, the ballot must be
unanimously in his favor to secure the adoption of his petition. It may be
stated,
134 MASONRY DEFINED
once
for all, that in all cases of balloting for admission in any of the degrees of
Masonry, a single black ball will reject.
122 -
What is the symbolism of the blazing star?
Blazing Star.
The blazing star is the expressive symbol of that Great Being himself, who is
described by the magnificent appellations of the Day Spring, or Rising Sun;
the Day Star; the Morning Star; and the Bright, or Blazing Star. This, then,
is the supernal reference of the Blazing Star of Masonry, attached to a
science which, like the religion it embodies, is universal, and applicable to
all times and sea‑sons, and to every people that ever did or ever will exist
on our ephemeral globe.
123 -
What is the symbolism of the color blue?
Blue Masonry.
The three degrees of symbolical Masonry are clothed in or ornamented with
blue, whence they are commonly known as Blue Lodge Masonry. Blue is the color
of truth or fidelity; and it is a remarkable fact that the brethren have ever
remained true to the blue degrees, while the authenticity of the other degrees
have often been disputed, and in many places altogether denied. Under the
reign of William III. of England blue was adopted as the favorite color of the
Craft.
This
durable and beautiful color was adopted and worn by our ancient brethren as
the peculiar characteristic of an institution which has stood the test of
ages, and which is as much distinguished by the durability of its materials or
principles, as by the beauty of its super‑structure. It is an emblem of
universal friendship and benevolence; and instructs us that, in the mind of a
Mason, those virtues should be as expansive as the blue arch of heaven itself.
124 -
What was the name of the left‑hand pillar on the porch of King Solomon's
temple?
Boaz.
The name of the left‑hand pillar that stood at the porch of King Solomon's
temple. It is derived from the Hebrew and signifies "in strength."
125 -
What is the Book of Constitutions?
Book of Constitutions.
This book contains the written landmarks, rules, regulations, ancient charges,
and fundamental principles of the Order, a detailed exposition of the duties
of officers of Grand and Subordinate Lodges, and the rights and privileges of
members. In all processions when the Grand Master appears the Book of
Constitutions is carried before him guarded by the Tiler's sword.
126 -
What is the symbolism of the Book of the Law?
Book of the Law.
The Holy Bible, which is always open in a Lodge as a symbol that its light
should be diffused among the breth‑
MASONRY DEFINED 135
ren.
The passages on which it is opened differ in the different degrees.
Masonically, the Book of the Law is that sacred book which is believed by the
Mason of any particular religion to contain the revealed will of God. Thus, to
the Christian Mason the Book of the Law is the Old and New Testament; to the
Jew, the Old Testament; to the Mussulman, the Koran; to the Brahman, the
Vedas; and to the Parsee, the Zendavesta.
The
Book of the Law is an important symbol in the Royal Arch degree, concerning
which there was a tradition among the Jews that the Book of the Law was lost
during the captivity, and that it was among the treasures discovered during
the building of the second Temple. The same opinion was entertained by the
early Christian fathers, such, for instance, as Irenacus, Tertullian, and
Clemens Alexandrinus; "for," says Prideaux, "they (the Christian fathers) hold
that all the Scriptures were lost and destroyed in the Babylonish captivity,
and that Erza restored them all again by Divine revelation." The truth of the
tradition is very generally denied by biblical scholars, who attribute its
origin to the fact that Erza collected together the copies of the law,
expurgated them of the errors which had crept into them during the captivity,
and arranged a new and correct edition. But the truth or falsity of the legend
does not affect the Masonic symbolism. The Book of the Law is the will of God,
which, lost to us in our darkness, must be recovered as precedent to our
learning what is TRUTH. As captives to error, truth is lost to us; when
freedom is restored, the first reward will be its discovery.
127 -
What are the ornaments of a Lodge?
Border.
The ornaments of a Lodge are said to be the Mosaic pavement, the indented
tessel, and blazing star. The indented tessel represents the beautiful border
that embellished the outer edges of the Mosaic pavement. This border consisted
of small stones of various colors, artistically arranged, so as to produce the
most pleasing effect.
128 -
What do the two pillars on the Tracing Board represent?
Brazen Pillars.
The two pillars on the Tracing Board are the representations of those which
stood at the entrance of the porch of King Solomon's Temple, emblems of
strength and stability. They are particularly described in Scripture. They
were composed of cast brass or, more properly, bronze, and were manufactured
in the clay ground between Succoth and Zeredatha, along with the holy vessels
lilih,äfor the temple worship.
129 -
What is the duty of a Mason with respect to a brother's secrets?
Breast.
A Mason's breast should be a safe and sacred repository for all just and
lawful secrets. A brother's secrets, delivered to me
136 MASONRY DEFINED
as
such, I would keep as my own, as to betray that trust might be doing him the
greatest injury he could sustain in this mortal life; nay, it would be like
the villany of an assassin who lurks in darkness to stab his adversary when
unarmed and least prepared to meet an enemy.
130 -
What is a Mason called who has mastered the ritual?
Bright.
A Mason is said to be "bright" who is well acquainted with the ritual, the
forms of opening and closing, and the ceremonies of initiation. This
expression does not, however, in its technical sense, appear to include
knowledge of the history and science of the Institution, and many bright
Masons, are therefore, not necessarily learned Masons. On the contrary, some
learned Masons are not well versed in the exact phraseology of the ritual. The
one knowledge depends on a retentive memory, the other is derived‑from deep
research. It is scarcely necessary to say which of the two kinds of knowledge
is more valuable. The Mason whose acquaintance with the Institution is
confined to what he learns from its esoteric ritual will have but a limited
idea of its science and philosophy. And yet a knowledge of the ritual as the
foundation of higher knowledge is essential.
131 -
What was the broached thurnal?
Broached Thurnal.
This was the name of one of the original immovable jewels, and was used for
the Entered Apprentice to learn to work upon. It was subsequently called the
Brute Stone, or rough Ashlar.
132 -
Of what is the broken column emblematic?
Broken Column.
Among the Hebrews, columns, or pillars, were used metaphorically, to signify
princes or nobles, as if they were the pillars of a state. Thus, in Psalm xi.
3, the passage, reading in our translation, "If the foundations be destroyed,
what can the righteous do?" is, in the original, "when the columns are
overthrown," i. e., when the firm supporters of what is right and good have
perished. So the passage in Isaiah six. 10, should read: "her (Egypt's)
columns are broken down," that is, the nobles of her state. In Freemasonry,
the broken column is, as Master Masons well know, the emblem of the fall of
one of the chief supporters of the Craft. The use of the column or pillar as a
monument erected over a tomb was a very ancient custom, and was a very
significant symbol of the character and spirit of the person interred.
133 -
In what sense is Freemasonry called a brotherhood?
Brotherhood.
When our Saviour designated his disciples as his brethren, he implied that
there was a close bond of union existing between them, which idea was
subsequently carried out by St. Peter
MASONRY DEFINED 137'
in his
direction to "love the brotherhood." Hence the early Christiana designated
themselves as a brotherhood, a relationship unknown to the Gentile religions;
and the ecclesiastical and other confraternities of the Middle Ages assumed
the same title to designate any association of men engaged in the same common
object, governed by the same rules, and united by an identical interest. The
association or fraternity of Freemasons is, in this sense, called a
brotherhood.
134 -
How does the master of a European Lodge greet a newly made Mason?
Brotherly Kiss.
At the close of their meetings the first Christians were accustomed to kiss
each other; this took place also at the holy evening banquet - agape - of the
community of brothers and sisters. To this practice the Apostles Paul and
Peter refer in their epistles: "Greet each other with the holy kiss." This
holy kiss, as a sign or token of brotherly love, is found likewise as a
venerable custom in many Lodges, particularly in Europe, where the Master
greets with a kiss each newly initiated member.
135 -
What Masonic duties are implied by the tenets of brotherly love?
Brotherly Love.
At a very early period in the course of his initiation, a candidate for the
mysteries of Freemasonry is informed that the great tenets of the Order are
Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. These virtues are illustrated, and their
practice recommended to the aspirant, at every step of his progress; and the
instruction, though continually varied in its mode, is so constantly repeated,
as infallibly to impress upon his mind their absolute necessity in the
constitution of a good Mason.
Brotherly Love might very well be supposed to be an ingredient in the
organization of a society so peculiarly constituted as that of Freemasonry.
But the brotherly love which we inculcate is not a mere abstraction, nor is
its character left to any general and careless understanding of the candidate,
who might be disposed to give much or little of it to his brethren, according
to the peculiar constitution of his own mind, or the extent of his own
generous or selfish feelings. It is, on the contrary, closely defined; its
object plainly denoted; and the very mode and manner of its practice detailed
in words, and illustrated by symbols, so as to give neither cause for error
nor apology for indifference.
'Every
Mason is acquainted with the Five Points of Fellowship - he knows their
symbolic meaning - he can never forget the interesting incidents that
accompanied their explanation; and while he has this knowledge, and retains
this remembrance, he can be at no loss to understand what are his duties, and
what must be his conduct, in relation to the principle of Brotherly Love.
Brotherly Love can be manifested in innumerable opportunities not
138 MASONRY DEFINED
only
in the Lodge but also out of it. It is acknowledged by the nearly
imperceptible pressure of the hand as much as by the vindication of an
innocently accused absent brother. It is an essential element to bind the
brethren unto each other; we have pledged our‑selves to exercise it, and it is
one of the greatest duties of a Free and Accepted Mason to deny it unto no
man, more especially to a brother Mason. To exercise brotherly love, or to
feel deeply interested in the welfare of others is a source of the greatest
happiness in every situation in life.
136 -
What were the bulls issued by the Popes against the Masonic order?
Bull, Papal.
An edict or proclamation issued from the Apostolic Chancery, with the seal and
signature of the pope, written in Gothic letters and upon coarse parchment. It
derives its name from the leaden seal which is attached to it by a cord of
hemp or silk, and which in mediaeval Latin is called Bulla. Several of these
bulls have from time to time been fulminated against Freemasonry and other
secret societies, subjecting them to the heaviest ecclesiastical punishments,
even to the greater excommunication. According to these bulls, a Freemason is
ipso facto excommunicated by continuing his member‑ship in the society, and is
thus deprived of all spiritual privileges while living, and the rites of
burial when dead.
Of
these bulls, the first was promulgated by Clement XII., on the 27th of April,
1738;
this was repeated and made perpetual by Benedict XIV., on the 18th of May,
1775.
On the 13th of August, 1814, an edict continuing these bulls was issued by the
Cardinal Gonsalvi, Secretary of State of Pius VII., and lastly, similar
denunciatory edicts have within recent years been uttered by Pius IX.
Notwithstanding these reiterated denunciations and attempts at Papal
suppression, the Mason may say of his Order as Galileo said of the earth, e
pur si muove.
137 -
What right of burial has a Master Mason?
Burial.
The right to be conducted to the last resting‑place on earth, by his brethren,
and to be committed to the grave with the ceremonies of the society, belongs
alone to Master Masons. Among the old regulations is the following: "No Mason
can be interred with the formalities of the Order, unless it be at his own
special request, communicated to the Master of the Lodge of which he died a
member - foreigners and sojourners excepted; nor unless he has been advanced
to the third degree of Masonry, from which there can be no exception."
138 -
May an Entered Apprentice or Fellowcraft take part in a Masonic Funeral
procession?
Burial, Masonic.
As Master Masons alone possess the right of Masonic burial, and as the Lodge,
preparatory to that occasion, is
MASONRY DEFINED 139
required to be opened in the third degree, it follows that Fellowcrafts and
Entered Apprentices are not permitted to join in a funeral pro‑cession, and
accordingly we find that in the form of procession laid down by Preston no
place is allotted to these inferior classes of the fraternity, in which he has
been followed by all subsequent monitorial writers.
139 -
Does an Entered Apprentice have the right of Masonic burial?
Burial of Entered Apprentices.
Apprentices are not entitled to the honors of Masonic burial, nor can they
join in paying those honors to a deceased Master Mason. In this respect they
are placed precisely in the position of profanes; this is a practical proof
that they are not Masons in the strict sense and significance of the word.
They are really nothing more than Masonic disciples, permitted only to enter
the porch of the temple, but with no right to penetrate within its sanctuary.
140 -
Where is the burial place of a Master Mason?
Burial Place.
The burial place of a Master Mason is under the Holy of Holies, with the
following legend delineated on the monument: A virgin weeping over a broken
column, with a book open before her; in her right hand a sprig of cassia, in
her left an urn; Time standing behind her, with his hands enfolded in the
ringlets of her hair. The weeping virgin denotes the unfinished state of the
temple; the broken column that one of the principal supporters of Masonry (our
Ancient operative Grand Master) had fallen; the open book implies that his
memory is recorded in every Mason's heart; the sprig of cassia refers to the
discovery of his remains; the urn shows that his ashes have been carefully
collected; and Time standing behind her implies that time, patience, and
perseverance will accomplish all things.
141 -
Where were treasures commonly concealed in ancient times?
Buried Treasures.
We have a tradition that King Solomon concealed certain treasures beneath the
foundation of the temple, which were found when they were opened to build the
second temple. It was common in ancient times to secrete treasures in such
vaults and caverns.
142 -
On what degree should the business of a Lodge be transacted? Why?
Business.
A Lodge has the right to transact all business that can be legally transacted
by regularly congregated Masons. This is one of the objects for which the
warrant was granted, but it is to be exercised under the regulation of certain
restrictions.
It
seems now to be almost universally conceded that all mere business (by which
word I wish to make a distinction from what is tech‑
140 MASONRY DEFINED
nically called "Masonic work") must be transacted in the third degree. This is
a very natural consequence of the change which has taken place in the
organization of the craft. Originally, the Fellow‑crafts constituted the great
body of the fraternity - the Master's degree being confined to that select few
who presided over the Lodges. At that time the business of the Order was
transacted in the second degree, because the possessors of that degree
composed the body of the craft. Afterwards, in the beginning, and up almost to
the middle f the last century, this main body was made up of Entered
Apprentices, and then the business of Lodges was necessarily transacted in the
first degree. Now, and ever since the middle of the eighteenth century, for
more than one hundred years, the body of the craft has consisted only of
Master Masons. Does it not then follow, by a parity of reasoning, that all
business should be now transacted in the third degree? The ancient Charges and
Constitutions give us no explicit law on the subject, but the whole spirit and
tenor of Masonic usage has been that the business of Lodges should be
conducted in that degree, the members of which constitute the main body of the
craft at the time. Whence it seems but a just deduction that at the present
time, and in the present condition of the fraternity, all business, except the
mere ritual work of the inferior degrees, should be conducted in the third
degree. Another exception must be made as to the examination of witnesses in
the trial of an Entered Apprentice or a Fellowcraft, which, for purposes of
justice, should be conducted in the degree to which the defendant has
attained; but even here the final decision should always be made in the third
degree.
143 -
What are the rules called that govern a Lodge?
By‑Laws.
Every lodge has the power of framing by‑laws for its own government, provided
they are not contrary to or inconsistent with the general regulations of the
Grand Lodge. The Old Constitutions provide that the by‑laws of the Lodge shall
be delivered to the master on the day of his installation, when he shall
solemnly pledge himself to observe and enforce them during his mastership.
Every brother shall also sign them when he becomes a member of the Lodge, as a
declaration of his submission to them.
144 -
What are the powers of a Grand Lodge with respect to the by‑laws of a
subordinate Lodge?
By‑Laws, Powers of Grand Lodge Over.
A Grand Lodge has the power of making by‑laws for its subordinates; for the
by‑laws of every Lodge are a part of the Regulations of Masonry, and it is the
prerogative of a Grand Lodge alone to make new regulations. Yet, for the sake
of convenience, a Grand Lodge will, and most Grand Lodges do, delegate to
their subordinates the duty of proposing by‑laws for their own government; but
these by‑laws must be approved and confirmed
MASONRY DEFINED 141
by the
Grand Lodge before they become permanent regulations. And a Grand Lodge may at
any time abrogate the by‑laws, or any part of them, or of any one or all of
its subordinates; for, as the power of pro‑posing by‑laws is not an inherent
prerogative in the Lodges, but one delegated by the Grand Lodge, it may at any
time be withdrawn or revoked, and a Grand Lodge may establish a uniform code
of by‑laws for the government of its subordinates.
It is
from the fact that a Lodge only proposes its by‑laws, which the Grand Lodge
enacts, that the principle arises that the Lodge can‑not suspend any one of
its by‑laws, even with unanimous consent, for here the maxim of law already
cited applies, and the same method must be adopted in abolishing as in
creating an obligation. That is to say, the by‑law having been enacted by the
Grand Lodge, that body alone can suspend its operation.
145 -
Has a Lodge the right to prescribe its own by‑laws?
By‑Laws, Right of Making.
A Lodge has the right to make by‑laws for its local government. This right
must be considered as a concession or regrant by the Grand Lodge to the
subordinates of that which had been previously conveyed to it. Undoubtedly
every congregation of Masons must originally have possessed an inherent right
to make rules for their government; but on the organization of Grand Lodges,
the supreme legislative jurisdiction of the Order was vested in these bodies.
Hence the law‑making power is now admitted to reside primarily in Grand
Lodges; but a portion of this power - just so much as is necessary for making
local regulations - has been reconveyed by the Grand Lodges to their
subordinate Lodges, with the qualifying restrictions that all by‑laws made by
a Lodge must be in accordance with the Landmarks of the Order and the
Regulations of the Grand Lodge, and must also be submitted for approval to the
Grand Lodge. This right then, of making by‑laws is not an inherent and
independent right, but one which is derived from the concession tf the Grand
Lodge, and may at any time be still further abridged or altogether revoked.
146 -
Has the Grand Lodge the right to prescribe the by‑laws of constituent Lodges?
By‑Laws, Uniform Code of.
It has been suggested in some jurisdictions that the Grand Lodge should
prepare a uniform code of by‑laws for the government of its subordinates, thus
depriving them of the power of enacting their own local regulations. I cannot
deny the right of a Grand Lodge to assume such a power, which seems to be
clearly within its prerogative. And indeed, while some liberty should be
al‑lowed a Lodge to make laws for its government in certain particulars, which
can in no way affect the general condition of the Order, such, for instance,
as relate to the contributions of members, the time of meeting, etc., I am
clearly convinced that it would be most expedient for
142 MASONRY DEFINED
every
Grand Lodge, like that of New York, to leave as little as possible in the way
of law‑making to its subordinates, but to incorporate in its own constitution
the most important articles for the government of Lodges.
147 -
What is the length of a Mason's cable tow?
Cable Tow's Length.
Gaedieke says that, "according to the ancient laws of Freemasonry, every
brother must attend his Lodge if he is within the length of his cable tow."
The old writers define the length of a cable tow, which they sometimes called
"a cable's length," to be three miles for an Entered Apprentice. But the
expression is really symbolic and, as it was defined by the Baltimore
Convention in 1842, means the scope of a man's reasonable ability.
148 -
What country did King Solomon cede to Hiram, King of Tyre?
Cabul.
A country in Galilee ceded to Hiram, King of Tyre, by Solomon, as a reward for
his assistance in building the temple. The history of this event is given in
the degree of Intimate Secretary of the Ancient and Accepted rite.
149 -
What calendars have been adopted by the various branches of Free‑ masonry?
Calendar.
An almanac - a method of marking" exactly the division of the years, starting
from some great epoch. Thus Christian nations reckon their time from the birth
of Christ, while those of the Mohammedan faith reckon theirs from the hegira,
or flight of Mohammed from Mecca. The Masonic era commences with the creation
of the world (Anno Mundi), or, Masonically expressed Anno Lucis, year of
light, or year of the Lodge. Between the creation of the world, according to
sacred chronology, and the advent of Christ 4000 years intervene; thus A. D.
1866 added to 4000 gives the Masonic year,
5866.
The Rite of Misraim adopts the chronology of Archbishop Usher, which adds
4
years to the common era, and makes 5870 the Masonic year. The Scotch rite
employs the Jewish chronology; thus the Hebrew year 5826 is the A. L. of
Scotch Masonry. This rite also adopts the Hebrew manner of dividing the year
into months, and closes the year Sept. 17, and begins the new on the 17th (Tisri,
1st). The York rite commences the year with Jan. 1; the French with March 1.
The Royal Arch degrees begin their computation with the year in which
Zerubbabel began to build the second temple, which was
530
years before Christ. So that 530+1866=2396, the Masonic year of the Royal
Arch. The Royal and Select Master's degree reckons time from the year in which
Solomon's Temple was completed, viz.: 1000 years before Christ. Thus,
1000+1866=2866, the year of the Royal and Select Master. The Knights Templar
compute time from the founding of the Order, A. D. 1118; so that A. D. 1866 -
1118=748 the
MASONRY DEFINED 143
year
of the Order of the Temple. Others (Strict Observance) commence their
reckoning from the destruction of the Templars, in 1314; therefore, A. D.
1866‑1314=552. The following will place these Masonic years directly before
the eye: A. D. 1866=A. L. 5866, the common Masonic year; A. D. 1866=A. L. 5870
of the Rite of Misraim; A. D. 1866=A. M. 5826 of the Scottish rite; A. D.
1866=A. I. 2396 of the Royal Arch; A. D. 1866=A. D.
2866
of the Royal and Select Master; A. D. 1866=A. O. 748 of the Templars; A. D.
1866=A. 0‑552 of the Strict Observance.
150 -
What term is applied to a temporary postponement of the labors of a Lodge?
Calling Off.
A technical term in Masonry, which signifies the temporary suspension of labor
in a Lodge without passing through the formal ceremony of closing. The full
form of the expression is to call from labor to refreshment, and it took its
rise from the former custom of dividing the time spent in the Lodge between
the work of Masonry and the moderate enjoyment of the banquet. The banquet
formed in the last century an indispensable part of the arrangements of a
Lodge meeting. "At a certain hour of the evening," says Brother Oliver, "with
certain ceremonies, the Lodge was called from labor to refreshment, when the
brethren enjoyed themselves with decent merriment." That custom no longer
exists; and although in England almost always, and in this country
occasionally, the labors of the Lodge are concluded with a banquet; yet the
Lodge is formally closed before the brethren proceed to the table of
refreshment. Calling off in American Lodges is now only used, except in a
certain ceremony of the third degree, when it is desired to have another
meeting at a short interval, and the Master desires to avoid the tediousness
of closing and opening the Lodge. Thus, if the business of the Lodge at its
regular meeting has so accumulated that it cannot be trans‑acted in one
evening, it has become the custom to call off until a subsequent evening, when
the Lodge, instead of being opened with the usual ceremony, is simply "called
on," and the latter meeting is considered as only a continuation of the
former. This custom is very generally adopted in Grand Lodges at their Annual
Communications, which are opened at the beginning of the session, called off
from day to day, and finally closed at its end. I do not know that any
objection has ever, been advanced against this usage in Grand Lodges, because
it seems necessary as a substitute for the adjournment, which is resorted to
in other legislative bodies, but which is not admitted in Masonry. But much
discussion has taken place in reference to the practice of calling off in
Lodges, some authorities sustaining and others condemning it. Thus, twenty
years ago, the Committee of Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi
pro‑
144 MASONRY DEFINED
posed
this question: "In case of excess of business, cannot the unfinished be laid
over until the next or another day, and must the Lodge be closed in form, and
opened the next, or the day designated for the transaction of that business?"
To this question some authorities, and among others Brother C. W. Moore, reply
in the negative, while other equally good jurists differ from them in opinion.
The
difficulty seems to be in this that if the regular meeting of the Lodge is
closed in form, the subsequent meeting becomes a special one, and many things
which could be done at a regular communication cease to be admissible. The
recommendation, therefore, of Brother Moore, that the Lodge should be closed,
and, if the business be unfinished, that the Master shall call a special
meeting to complete it, does not meet the difficulty, because it is a
well‑settled principle of Masonic law that a special meeting cannot interfere
with the business of a preceding regular one.
As,
then, the mode of briefly closing by adjournment is contrary to Masonic law
and usage, and cannot, therefore, be resorted to, as there is no other way
except by calling off to continue the character of a regular meeting, and as,
during the period that the lodge is called off, it is under the government of
the Junior Warden, and Masonic discipline is thus continued, I am clearly of
opinion that calling off from day to day for the purpose of continuing work of
business is, as a matter of convenience, admissible. The practice may indeed
be abused. But there is a well‑known legal maxim which says, "No argument can
be drawn from the abuse of a thing against its use." Thus, a Lodge cannot be
called off except for continuance of work and business, nor to an indefinite
day, for there must be a good reason for the exercise of the practice, and the
brethren present must be notified before dispersing of the time of
re‑assembling. Nor can a Lodge at one regular meeting be called off until the
next, for no regular meeting of a Lodge is permitted to run into another, but
each must be closed before its successor can be opened.
151 -
What are the qualifications for admission to Freemasonry?
Candidate.
An applicant for admission into Masonry is called a candidate. The Latin
candidatus means clothed in white, candidis vestibus indutus. In ancient Rome,
he who sought office from the people wore a white shining robe of a peculiar
construction, flowing open in front, so as to exhibit the wounds he had
received in his breast. From the color of his robe or toga candida, he was
called candidatus, whence the word candidate. The derivation will serve to
remind the Mason of the purity of conduct and character which should
distinguish all those who are candidates for admission into the order. The
qualifications of a candidate in Masonry are some‑what peculiar. He must be
freeborn, under no bondage, of at least ,c.
MASONRY DEFINED 145
twenty‑one years of age, in the possession of sound senses, free from any
physical defect or dismemberment, and of irreproachable manners, or, as it is
technically termed, "under the tongue of good report." No atheist, eunuch, or
woman can be admitted. The requisites as to age, sex, and soundness of body
have reference to the operative character of the Institution. We can only
expect able workmen in able‑bodied men. The mental and religious
qualifications refer to the duties and obligations which a Freemason
contracts. An idiot could not understand them, and an atheist would not
respect them. Even those who possess all these necessary qualifications can be
admitted only under certain regulations. Not more than five candidates can be
received at one time, except in urgent cases, when a dispensation may be
granted by the Grand Master, and no applicant can receive more than two
degrees on the same day. To the last rule there can be no exception.
152 -
What is the Masonic significance of the cardinal points?
Cardinal Points.
The cardinal points of the compass have a peculiar signification amongst us,
and particularly the east, west, and south. The east is a place of light, and
there stands the Worshipful Master, a pillar of Wisdom, as a representation of
the rising sun; and as that luminary opens the glorious day to light mankind
to their labors, so the Worshipful Master occupies this station to open Lodge,
and to employ and instruct the brethren in Masonry. The south is a station of
another important officer, the pillar of Beauty, who is placed in that quarter
that he may be prepared to mark the sun at its meridian, to call the workmen
from labor, and to recruit their strength by necessary refreshment and rest,
that their toils may be resumed with renewed vigor and alacrity, without which
neither pleasure nor profit can mutually result. In the west stands the pillar
of Strength, to mark the setting sun, and close the labors of the day by
command of the presiding officer; because the declining luminary warns mankind
of the necessity of repose, else our nature would sink under the effects of
incessant toil, unrelieved by rest and recreation.
153 -
What are the four cardinal virtues?
Cardinal Virtues.
They are Fortitude, by which we are taught to resist temptation; Prudence,‑by
which we are instructed to regulate our conduct by the dictates of reason;
Temperance, by which we learn to govern the passions; Justice, which
constitutes the cement of civil society.
154 ‑
What is the Masonic carpet?
Carpet.
A kind of map, on which are pictured the emblems illustrative of the several
degrees of Freemasonry. and by reference to
146 MASONRY DEFINED
which
neophytes are instructed. They were formerly traced upon the floor, hence the
term carpet.
155 -
What part of the Masonic ritual is in the form of a catechism?
Catechism.
This is the most important document in Freemasonry. The catechism was formerly
only communicated by conference from one lodge to another, or from one brother
to another; and this is the reason why we have so many different forms of the
catechism, al‑though in spirit there is no material difference in any of them.
As a religious catechism contains a summary of all that is taught by that
religion, so our catechism contains the essentials of Freemasonry; but it is
not to be understood without the teacher taking great pains in instructing the
student, nor without his having previously been instructed in a Lodge, and
being able to reflect upon and remember the instructions there given. Every
degree has its own catechisms; and in many Lodges it is customary to explain
part of it at every meeting, in order that the members may become intimately
acquainted with it.
156 -
What great woman ruler prohibited Masonry in her country and after‑ wards
fostered, encouraged and protected it?
Catharine II.
Catharine the Great, Empress of Russia, in 1762, prohibited by an edict all
Masonic meetings in her dominions. But subsequently better sentiments
prevailed, and having learned the true character of the Institution, she not
only revoked her order of prohibition, but invited the Masons to re‑establish
their Lodges and to constitute new ones, and went so far as to proclaim
herself the Protectress of the Lodge of Clio, at Moscow. During the remainder
of her reign Freemasonry was in a flourishing condition in Russia, and many of
the nobles organized Lodges in their palaces. She died November
6,
1796, and the persecutions against the Order were renewed by her successor.
157 -
What new name is given to the entered apprentice and why?
Caution.
The Entered Apprentice, at his initiation in the United States, is presented
with a new name, which is Caution, to teach him that, as he is then
imperfectly instructed in the mysteries of Masonry, he ought to be cautious
over all his words and actions, that nothing may escape him which may tend to
afford information to the opponents of Masonry. This is one of the triad of
duties recommended in the first degree.
158 -
What new name is given to the Entered Apprentice and why?
Cautious Secrecy.
The
cautious secrecy of the Craft in early ages was used to prevent the great
principles of science, by which their reputation was secured and maintained,
from being publicly known.
MASONRY DEFINED 147
Even
the inferior workmen were unacquainted with the secret and refined mechanism
which cemented and imparted the treasure of wisdom. They were profoundly
ignorant of the wisdom which planned, the beauty which designed, and knew only
the strength and labor which executed the work. The doctrine of the pressure
and counter‑pressure of complicated arches was a mystery which they never
attempted to penetrate. They were blind instruments in the hands of
intelligent Master Masons, and completed the most sublime undertakings by the
effect of mere mechanical skill and physical power, without being able to
comprehend the secret which produced them; without understanding the nice
adjustment of the members of a building to each other, so necessary to
accomplish a striking and permanent effect; or without being able to enter
into the science exhibited in the complicated details which were necessary to
form a harmonious and proportionate whole.
159 -
Where did King Solomon have a cave dug and for what purpose?
Cave.
Solomon, according to Masonic tradition, had a deep cave dug underneath the
Sanctum Sanctorum of the Temple, with many intricacies, over which he fixed a
stone, wherein he put the ark and cherubim. According to Manasseh Ben Israel,
the rabbis say he did this because he foresaw that that house would be
destroyed and therefore made a secret place where the ark might be kept, so
that its sanctity might not be profaned by heathen hands; and they are of
opinion that subsequently Josiah secreted therein the ark. They prove it
firstly from 1 Kings vi. 9: - "And the oracle within the house he prepared to
place there the ark," where by prepare they under‑stand a preparation for the
future; they quote the passage, "And they were there until this day," a term
in the Holy Scriptures to signify "to all eternity," as, "And no man knoweth
of his sepulchre unto this day," that is, never.
160 -
What are the characteristics of the cedars of Lebanon?
Cedar.
The cedar grows on the most elevated