Masonic Symbolism
Mission of Freemasonry
“It is unreasonable to think that an organization as vast as Masonry exists solely to teach grown adults the symbolic use of simple builders’ tools or basic virtues like temperance, justice, and brotherly love—lessons taught in every school and religion. Nor would we need the elaborate ceremony of the third degree merely to learn that all must die. The Craft must have a greater purpose than promoting social virtues common to all and not unique to Freemasons.” – W.L. Wilmhurst
Freemasonry teaches the vital study of knowing oneself. It holds that an inner light or divinity exists within each person—the true secret of a Master Mason—yet it is lost to us in our present state of ignorance. Our purpose is to seek what was lost, persevering in the search for this light and striving for self-perfection, even if the goal remains incomplete, like the unfinished temple of our legend. Masonic rituals and ceremonies guide us on this spiritual journey: to dispel ignorance, to know God, and ultimately to experience God.
Square & Compasses
“The Compass, as the Symbol of the Heavens, represents the spiritual portion of this double nature of Humanity… and the Square, as the Symbol of the Earth, its material, sensual, and baser portion.” – Albert Pike
Pursuit of Truth
“In each human body the two principles of immortality and death are established. By the pursuit of delusion we reach death; by the pursuit of Truth we attain immortality” – The Mahabharata
Allegories & Symbols
An allegory represents abstract ideas through characters, figures, or events. It has both a simple meaning and a hidden one, and its true purpose is to convey the latter. It reveals itself to those with the insight to perceive its deeper significance.
A symbol represents something else by association, resemblance, or convention. It has no inherent secondary meaning but gains meaning through usage and tradition, and can be interpreted differently depending on one’s perspective and experience.”
Do your believe that it is not only more blessed to give than to receive, it's also more fun?
Freemasons are involved with the problems and needs of others because we know it gives each of us a good feeling — unlike any other — to help. Much of our help is given anonymously. We’re not after gratitude, we’re more than rewarded by that feeling which comes from knowing we have helped another person overcome some adversity, so that their life can go on.
Are you willing to give help to your Brothers when they need it, and to accept their help when you need it?
Freemasonry is mutual help. Not just financial help (although that’s there, too) but help in the sense of being there when needed, giving support, lending a sympathetic ear.
Do you feel that there's something more to life than financial success?
Freemasons know that self-development is more precious than money in the bank or social position or political power. Those things often accompany self-development, but they are no substitute for it. Freemasons work at building their lives and character, just as a carpenter works a building a house.
Do you believe that a person should strive to be a good citizen and that we have a moral duty to be true to the country in which we live?
Freemasons believe that a country is strong as long as freedom, equality, and the opportunity for human development is afforded to all. A Freemason is true to his government and its ideals. He supports its laws and authority when both are just and equitably applied. We uphold and maintain the principles of good government, and oppose every influence that would divide it in a degrading manner.
Do you agree that man should show compassion for others, that goodness of heart is among the most important of human values?
Freemasons do. We believe in a certain reverence for living things, a tenderness toward people who suffer. A loving kindness for our fellow man, and a desire to do right because it is right. Freemasonry teaches that although all men are fallible and capable of much wrong, when they discover the goodness of heart, they have found the true essence of virtue. Masonry helps men see their potential for deep goodness and virtue.
Do you believe that men should strive to live a brotherly life?
Freemasons see brotherhood as a form of wisdom, a sort of bond that holds men together — a private friendship that tells us we owe it to each other to be just in our dealings and to refuse to speak evil of each other. Freemasons believe a man should maintain an attitude of good will, and promote unity and harmony is his relations with one another, his family, and his community. Freemasons call this way of believing in the Brotherhood of Man. It really means that every Freemason makes it his duty to follow the golden rule. This is why Freemasonry has been called one of the greatest forces for good in the world.
If you answered "Yes", you should consider becoming a Freemason.
Freemasonry offers much to its members — the opportunity to grow, the chance to make a difference, to build a better world for our children. It offers the chance to be with and work with men who have the same values and ideals — men who have answered “YES” to these questions.
It’s easy to find out more. Just find a Freemason and ask him about Freemasonry. You probably know several Freemasons. Perhaps you’ve seen the Square and Compasses like the one in this brochure or on a pin or tie tack or bumper sticker. If you know where the lodge is in your community, stop by or look up the number of your local Masonic lodge in the phone book and ask for the secretary of the lodge. He’ll be happy to help you.
If you are considering to become a Freemason, Please contact us.