The Mason symbol stands for the principles and teachings of Freemasonry. Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest secular fraternal organizations, whose members are concerned with moral and spiritual values. The Freemasons, or Masons, aim to make good men better through the use of Masonic teachings and symbols. The Mason symbol encapsulates the history, values, and mysteries of Freemasonry.
History of Freemasonry
The origins of Freemasonry are shrouded in mystery. Most scholars believe the fraternity grew out of the guilds of stonemasons who built castles and cathedrals during the Middle Ages. These masons secretly passed down their knowledge of geometry, arithmetic, and building techniques through generations.
As work on cathedrals decreased in the 17th century, lodges of operative masons began to accept honorary members to bolster their declining membership. Eventually, these lodges evolved into the speculative Masonic lodges of businessmen, scientists, and other leading citizens that exist today.
The first Grand Lodge was established in London in 1717. This marked the transition between operative and speculative Masonry. Grand Lodges are the governing bodies that oversee all Masonic lodges in a geographical location.
Core Values and Principles
Freemasonry is guided by the following core values and principles:
- Brotherly love – Masons are committed to caring for the wellbeing of their fellow man. The fraternity unites men across countries, religions, and opinions.
- Relief – Masons donate over $2 million per day to charitable causes. Masonic priorities include care for widows and orphans, as well as sick and distressed brothers.
- Truth – Masons search for truth, enlightenment, and knowledge. The symbols and rituals teach moral lessons.
- Tolerance – Masons accept men from every faith. Political and religious differences do not obstruct the unity of Masonry.
- Self-improvement – Masons believe in improving oneself through education, self-discipline, and consciousness of moral and ethical standards.
- Justice – Masons value fairness, justice, and equality. Masonry demands from its members a respect for the laws of the state.
The Masonic Lodge
The basic unit of Freemasonry is the Masonic lodge. Lodges can be dedicated to a saint, city, or person. For example, there is a lodge in every state dedicated to Benjamin Franklin. Lodges usually meet once or twice a month.
There are two types of lodges:
- Blue/craft lodges confer the first three degrees of Masonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.
- Scottish Rite and York Rite lodges confer higher degrees and orders beyond the first three.
Lodges follow an ancient lodge model consisting of officers and layout:
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| Worshipful Master | Presides over meetings and lodge |
| Senior Warden | Assists the Worshipful Master |
| Junior Warden | Guards the doors to the lodge room |
| Treasurer | Manages lodge funds |
| Secretary | Handles lodge records and communication |
The layout of the lodge room represents King Solomon’s Temple with the Worshipful Master and officers in the East, West, and South. Initiation rituals and degree work take place within the lodge room.
Membership and Organization
Only men can become Masons, and each candidate must ask to join of his own free will. He must also believe in a Supreme Being, be of lawful age, and of good character. The fraternity has around 6 million members worldwide.
The two main branches of Freemasonry are:
- York Rite – Originally an American rite, it has 10 degrees beyond the Blue Lodge degrees and emphasizes Christian teachings and values.
- Scottish Rite – Consists of 32 degrees beyond the Blue Lodge focused on Masonic history and philosophy. It is the dominant branch outside the United States.
Every state has a Grand Lodge that oversees all Masonic lodges within its jurisdiction. There are over 200 Grand Lodges around the world, each operating independently.
Rituals and Symbolism
Masonic rituals impart moral and ethical lessons using objects and symbols. Each element teaches Masons about history, human thought, morality, and virtue. Common Masonic symbols include:
- Square and Compass – The most universal Masonic symbol reminds Masons to keep their actions square with morality and remain balanced and steady.
- Letter G – Stands for both “God” and “Geometry.” Geometry was an important science for masons, while God is the Supreme Being.
- All-Seeing Eye – Represents watchfulness and the omniscience of God.
- Rough/Perfect Ashlar – Symbolizes the progress from a rough stone to a perfect stone through education and perseverance.
- Trowel – Used to spread cement uniting the brothers, just as morality binds people together.
Secret handshakes and passwords allow members to recognize each other in public. The initiation rituals impart these to new members. The stories and morality plays of Masonic degrees are meant to inspire members in spiritual development and personal growth.
Contributions to Society
Freemasons had major roles in promoting age of Enlightenment ideals of liberty, equality, and rationalism. Many influential figures were Masons, like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Winston Churchill and Theodore Roosevelt. Masonic ideals inspired revolutions in America and France against oppression and tyranny.
Freemasonry promoted moral universalism by accepting men of all faiths. The fraternity united people across religions and social classes when such relations were rare.
Today, Freemasonry donates over $2 billion annually to charity. Much of this goes to medical research like the Shriners hospitals for children. The Masons prioritize care for disadvantaged children and the elderly.
Conspiracy Theories
The secret nature of Freemasonry has long fueled conspiracy theories. Some believe the Masons manipulate world events or conceal knowledge. Critics view the society as elitist or anti-religion. Some totalitarian governments have persecuted Freemasonry as a potential threat.
In reality, Freemasonry advocates moral values and fraternal bonds rather than power. Masonic secrecy serves to add intrigue and tradition to its rituals. Masonry does not seek conflict with any group; its goal is to unite men.
Conclusion
The Mason symbol encapsulates the history and values of Freemasonry across centuries. While its origins are uncertain, its ideals of moral progress, universal brotherhood, justice, and intellectual pursuit remain relevant today. The symbols, rituals, and teachings aim to make good men better and inspire personal growth. Freemasonry has united diverse groups, contributed to charity, and shaped society despite facing criticism. While its rituals have an aura of mystery, Masonry ultimately seeks to improve humanity through its values.
