Degrees Of Freemasonry Explained

Freemasonry is an ancient and honorable fraternity with a long and proud history. It is a system of moral teachings, which uses metaphors and symbols from the building trade to teach universal lessons. Freemasonry has three degrees, each of which has its own symbolism and purpose. The three degrees are Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. In this article we will explain the meaning behind each degree and what they represent in Freemasonry.

Degrees of Freemasonry refer to the levels of advancement within the fraternity of Freemasonry. The first three degrees of Masonry are Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason. The other degrees, which are optional, are known as advanced or honorary degrees, and vary depending on the jurisdiction. All Masonic degrees emphasize moral and philosophical teachings, self-improvement, and charity.

Different Types of Degrees in Freemasonry

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that has been around since the mid-1700s. It is composed of members who are dedicated to living by a moral code and upholding the traditions of the organization and its degrees. There are many different types of degrees in Freemasonry, from the Entered Apprentice to the 33rd Degree. Here are some of the degrees and what each one stands for:

• Entered Apprentice: The first degree of Freemasonry, this degree teaches members about basic principles and duties to uphold.

• Fellow Craft: This second degree focuses on furthering knowledge gained from the first degree as well as teaching members about social responsibility and charity work.

• Master Mason: The third degree is considered the highest level of craftsmanship in Freemasonry. It focuses on morality, ethics, philosophy, history, symbolism, ritualism and more.

• Mark Master Mason: This fourth degree is focused on learning how to identify quality workmanship and teach it to others.

• Royal Arch Mason: This fifth degree focuses on learning more about Masonic history and ancient Israelite culture.

• Secret Master Mason: This sixth degree focuses on teaching members about leadership skills and how to be a mentor for others within Freemasonry.

• Select Master Mason: This seventh degree teaches members about self-improvement and understanding their place within society as a Freemason.

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• Most Excellent Master Mason: This eighth degree focuses on becoming an even better leader than before with a greater knowledge of Masonic philosophy.

• Super Excellent Master Mason: This ninth degree teaches members more advanced leadership skills as well as an increased understanding of Masonic rites and rituals.

• Royal & Select Masters (Cryptic Degrees): These tenth through twelfth degrees focus on understanding more of Masonic history as well as furthering knowledge gained from previous degrees.

• Knight Templar: These thirteenth through fifteenth degrees focus on chivalry, charity work, religious studies, esotericism and much more. They are also known as “Christian” degrees due to their heavy focus on Christianity-related topics.

Scottish Rite Degrees

The Scottish Rite is a branch within Freemasonry that consists of thirty additional degrees from the sixteenth to thirty-third degrees. Each one focuses on different aspects such as morality, philosophy, symbolism, ritualism and much more.

Entered Apprentice Degree

The Entered Apprentice degree is the first degree of Freemasonry, the gateway to the higher degrees of Masonry which follow. It is a symbolic journey of self-discovery and personal growth that can be used in our day to day lives. During this degree, the initiate learns the fundamentals of Freemasonry, such as its history, traditions, and symbolism.

Upon taking the Entered Apprentice Degree, a person becomes an Entered Apprentice Freemason. This degree is focused on teaching the initiate about Masonic principles and values like brotherly love, truth, and charity. At this point in time they are also expected to learn about the tools of a Mason, such as the square and compasses.

Freemasons use these tools to symbolize moral truths in their teachings, such as striving for moral perfection or having faith in a higher power. The Entered Apprentice Degree also emphasizes loyalty to one’s country and respect for civil authority. During this degree ceremony an initiate will swear an oath of secrecy regarding all matters related to Freemasonry.

In addition to learning moral lessons in this initiation ritual, initiates also learn about their rights and responsibilities as a Mason. They are taught about trustworthiness and honesty with fellow Masons as well as how to be respectful of others regardless of their religious backgrounds or beliefs. As part of their obligation they must adhere strictly to any rules or regulations established by their Lodge.

The Entered Apprentice Degree is a beautiful ritual that introduces initiates into the world of Freemasonry with grace and dignity. Through this ritual they learn important life lessons that help them become better men who are more aware of themselves and those around them. By becoming an Entered Apprentice Mason they have joined a brotherhood of men who have been helping each other since centuries ago!

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Obligations and Responsibilities of an Entered Apprentice

Being an Entered Apprentice in Freemasonry is a great honor and a privilege. It comes with many responsibilities and obligations that must be followed. This article will explore some of those responsibilities and obligations that are expected of all Entered Apprentices.

• Respect the Craft: All Entered Apprentices are expected to show respect to the Craft, its members, and its symbols. This includes not using any of the symbols or rituals for any non-Masonic purpose.

• Uphold the Principles: Every Entered Apprentice should strive to uphold the principles of Freemasonry, including brotherly love, relief, truth, and justice. These principles should be applied in all aspects of life.

• Act with Integrity: All Entered Apprentices should act with integrity at all times. They should strive to be honest in all their dealings and to conduct themselves in a manner that is honorable and respectful to others.

• Follow Masonic Law: All Entered Apprentices should familiarize themselves with Masonic law and understand their obligations under it before engaging in any activities related to Freemasonry. They should also ensure that they do not violate any laws or regulations related to the Craft at any time.

• Respect Other Members: All Entered Apprentices must show respect for other members of the Craft, regardless of rank or position. This includes treating each other with kindness and courtesy at all times.

• Attend Meetings: It is important for all Entered Apprentices to attend meetings regularly in order to stay informed about Masonic activities and events as well as participate in discussions about Masonic matters.

• Contribute Meaningfully: All Entered Apprentices are expected to contribute meaningfully during meetings by sharing their knowledge or opinions on relevant topics when called upon by a senior member of the lodge. They should also take part in debates whenever possible so that they can learn more about the Craft from different perspectives.

Background

The Fellowcraft Degree is the second of three degrees within the Masonic system. It is the degree that any Mason must complete in order to become a ‘Master Mason’, and is the gateway to further advancement within freemasonry. The Fellowcraft degree is focused on moral instruction, as well as expanding upon the symbolism of craftsmanship and building, which was introduced in the Entered Apprentice degree.

Symbolism

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The Fellowcraft Degree makes use of a variety of symbols and allegories. The key symbol of this degree is that of a windmill, which is seen as representing progress and advancement. The windmill can be used to illustrate how an individual can build upon their knowledge, and use it to create something new and beneficial for society at large. Other symbols in this degree include those of a plumb line, a level, and an open book – all of which are seen as representing different aspects of moral instruction.

Objectives

The main objective of the Fellowcraft Degree is to provide further instruction into morality and ethics. This includes teaching members about justice, equity, truthfulness and other virtues which should be upheld by all Masons. In addition to this, it also provides further insight into how one should approach their work in life – such as with diligence, precision and integrity.

Rituals & Practices

The Fellowcraft Degree follows specific rituals which have been handed down through generations. These rituals involve symbolic acts such as walking around a winding staircase three times (to represent one’s journey towards enlightenment), walking around an altar seven times (to represent one’s commitment to living by moral principles), or using various tools such as a plumb line or level (to represent perfection in one’s work). Each ritual has its own meaning which will be explained during each part of the degree.

In Reflection

In reflection, the Fellowcraft Degree serves as an important step towards becoming a Master Mason. It provides further insight into morality and virtue as well as teaching members how they can use knowledge for progress. Specific rituals are followed during this degree to demonstrate commitment to moral principles and perfection in one’s work.

Obligations and Responsibilities of a Fellowcraft

Being a Fellowcraft is not a privilege, but an honor. It is an obligation to uphold the highest standards of the fraternity and to be responsible for carrying out its mission. A Fellowcraft has certain responsibilities that must be taken seriously, such as:

• Upholding the moral character and principles of the fraternity: This means being honest, ethical, and responsible in all aspects of life. It also means respecting others and being a good role model for other members.

• Abiding by the rules and regulations of the fraternity: Rules must be followed to ensure the safety and well-being of all members. This includes following dress codes, attending meetings on time, participating in activities, and taking part in service projects.

• Developing leadership skills: A Fellowcraft should strive to develop their leadership skills so that they can be more effective in their roles within the fraternity. This includes learning how to manage people, delegate tasks, build relationships with others, problem solve, communicate effectively, and making sound decisions.

• Contributing to the success of the fraternity: A Fellowcraft should do what they can to ensure that the fraternity is successful in achieving its goals and objectives. This could include participating in fundraising efforts or helping to organize events or activities.

• Being a good ambassador for the fraternity: As a Fellowcraft you are expected to represent your fraternity positively in all areas of your life. This means exhibiting exemplary behavior at all times so that you can be seen as an example for other members.

These are just some of the obligations that come with being a Fellowcraft; there are many more depending on your specific role within your chapter or organization. It is important to remember that as a Fellowcraft you have both rights and responsibilities that must be taken seriously if you are going to live up to your commitment as a member of this prestigious organization.

The Symbolic Lodge, Its Officers, and the Mason Working Tools

The Master Mason Degree is the peak of Ancient Craft Masonry. It is in this degree that a candidate learns of the symbolic lodge, its officers, and the tools of operative masonry. In this degree, the candidate learns how to apply these symbols to their life. The candidate is also taught about the pillars which support the lodge and how they represent strength and stability.

The symbolic lodge is divided into three principal officers; Master, Senior Warden and Junior Warden. The Master represents wisdom, strength and beauty while the Senior Warden symbolizes fortitude and integrity. The Junior Warden symbolizes prudence and temperance. These three officers are responsible for the governance of the lodge and for ensuring that all members are treated equally in accordance with Masonic Law.

Masonic working tools are used as symbols to teach moral lessons during initiation ceremonies into Freemasonry. These tools consist of a square, level, plumb line, 24-inch gauge, common gavel and chisel. Each tool has its own specific purpose which relates to a moral lesson; for example, the square is used to teach fairness in all dealings with others while the level teaches equality amongst mankind regardless of rank or wealth.

The other tools such as a plumb line remind us to live our lives uprightly with honesty and integrity whilst a common gavel encourages us to chip away at our vices so that we may build ourselves into better men.
Therefore, each tool serves as an allegory for our journey towards spiritual perfection in life; by understanding their meanings we can use them as a guide on our journey through life so that we may become better versions of ourselves over time.

In reflection, it can be seen that there is much symbolism associated with Freemasonry within its rituals and ceremonies which can be applied to everyday life situations in order to help us become better people. With this knowledge candidates are able to bring more light into their lives by understanding these symbols more deeply outside of their traditional context within Freemasonry itself.

Obligations and Responsibilities of a Master Mason

As a Master Mason, it is important to understand the obligations and responsibilities associated with this great honor. These include:

• Pursuing knowledge
• Upholding moral standards
• Respecting the laws of the land
• Assisting fellow Masons in need
• Promoting brotherhood and harmony

A Master Mason must strive to acquire knowledge. He should endeavor to learn more about the principles of Freemasonry and the teachings of its ancient rituals. The pursuit of knowledge is an essential part of being a Master Mason. It helps build character, develop leadership skills, and gain greater understanding and appreciation for Freemasonry.

Moral values are at the core of Freemasonry. As a Master Mason, you must strive to live by these values in your everyday life. This includes following ethical principles, being honest and trustworthy, treating others with respect, being charitable towards those in need, and living up to your commitments.

You must also respect the laws of the land in which you reside. This means adhering to all applicable laws and regulations as outlined by local governments or other governing bodies. Additionally, you should be mindful of any laws that have been put in place by your local Masonic lodge or Grand Lodge.

As part of your membership in Freemasonry, it is important to assist fellow Masons who may be facing difficulties or hardships. This could include offering support through financial aid or providing assistance in other practical ways. It is important that members look out for one another and offer assistance whenever possible.

Therefore, as a Master Mason you should strive to promote brotherhood and harmony amongst your fellow Masons. This can include attending meetings regularly, engaging in activities together with other members, and working together on projects that benefit both individuals and the lodge as a whole.

Final Words On Degrees Of Freemasonry Explained

Freemasonry offers a world of traditions and teachings, which are held dear by its members. It is an ancient organization that has remained intact for centuries, and is still practiced today. Its members come from all walks of life and all across the world.

The Degrees of Freemasonry are profound and mysterious in their own right. They offer insight into the inner workings of the order, as well as a glimpse into the beliefs and principles followed by its members. Beyond this, they also provide a pathway to further initiation, with higher degrees offering even more secrets and knowledge.

The Degrees of Freemasonry are an integral part of the larger Masonic philosophy and ritual traditions. Each grade holds its own unique significance, and can be seen as representing different stages of spiritual enlightenment and understanding. The structure of Masonic practice allows for open-ended exploration, with each member’s journey being their own.

In this way, Freemasonry has become a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. Not only does it provide a platform for intellectual discourse, but it also encourages members to think critically about their beliefs and engage in meaningful dialogue with others who share similar interests or perspectives.

Freemasonry is much more than just an organization – it is a way of life that encourages exploration, knowledge-seeking, charity work, tolerance, camaraderie, philosophy, morality, spirituality – among many other things! Through these aspects the order provides opportunities for individuals to grow in both mind and spirit.

In reflection on Degrees Of Freemasonry Explained we can see that while it may be shrouded in mystery to those unfamiliar with its practices; at its heart Freemasonry offers individuals a pathway to knowledge that extends far beyond the physical world around us – providing access to philosophical truths that have been passed down through generations!