The Masonic Second Degree Working Tools are essential tools of Masonic ritual and symbolism. They are used to teach lessons of morality, virtue, and self-improvement and to remind Masons of their duty as Freemasons. The three working tools of the second degree are the square, level, and plumb rule. Each tool has its own symbolic meaning that is important for Freemasons to understand in order to better themselves as members of the fraternity.
The working tools of a Second Degree Mason are the square, level, and plumb rule. The square is used to try the stones of a building for their accuracy of form and to see that they are truly square. The level is used to prove horizontality in the construction of the building, while the plumb rule is used to prove verticality. All three tools represent moral and ethical virtues which should be cultivated within oneself. They also symbolize the use of reason, justice, and judgment in life’s endeavors.
The Symbolism of the Working Tools in the Second Degree
The second degree in Freemasonry is an important milestone in a Master Mason’s career. The second degree brings the new Mason into a higher level of understanding, and part of this understanding is symbolically represented by the working tools of this degree. These tools are not literal, physical tools, but rather symbols that represent various aspects of a Mason’s journey through life. By understanding the symbolism behind these working tools, a Mason can gain insight into his own character, as well as the principles of Freemasonry.
Square
The square symbolizes virtue and morality. It is used to judge whether something is true or false, right or wrong; it also serves as an important reminder to stay within the bounds of morality and uprightness. The square is also used to test whether one’s actions are proper and true; if they do not fit within the boundaries set by this symbol, then those actions are considered wrong.
Compass
The compass has two meanings: firstly, it serves to keep Masons within their moral bounds; secondly, it serves to remind them that they should reach out beyond their current state and strive for greater knowledge and understanding. The compass also serves as a reminder that Masons should have self-restraint and discipline in all their actions.
Level
The level symbolizes equality and unity among all Masons regardless of race, gender or religion. It reminds Masons that there is no person who is above another; all people are equal in their character and purpose regardless of their differences. The level also serves to remind Masons that they must always strive for excellence in everything they do; no matter how difficult something may be, if they work hard enough it can be achieved.
Plumb Rule
The plumb rule serves as a reminder to stay upright and honest in all actions taken by Masons. It reminds them that no matter what happens in life, they should always stay true to themselves and remain honest with others; any deviation from this path will only lead them astray from achieving their goals. The plumb rule also teaches Masons about personal responsibility; they must take responsibility for their actions even when times are tough or when things don’t go according to plan.
By understanding these symbols associated with the working tools of the second degree, Masons can gain insight into themselves as well as what being a Mason really means: living up to high moral standards while striving for knowledge and excellence in everything we do. Ultimately, these symbols serve as reminders that with hard work and dedication anything can be achieved – even if times get tough along the way!
The Significance of the Working Tools in Freemasonry
Freemasonry has a rich history, and during that time the tools used have come to symbolize certain ideas. The working tools are often used to teach members about morality, and each tool is associated with a particular lesson. Here are some of the ways the working tools are used in Freemasonry:
• The Working Tools teach important moral lessons: Each of the tools has its own symbolic meaning that is intended to teach an important moral lesson. For example, the square teaches members to act honestly and with integrity, while the compass symbolizes that they should keep their passions in check.
• They represent different aspects of life: Each tool can be seen as representing a different aspect of life. For example, the gavel represents justice and order, while the level reminds us that all people should be treated equally regardless of social class or other differences.
• They help to instill respect for authority: The tools also serve as a reminder that we should respect authority figures such as our parents or teachers. This helps to create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected regardless of their background or beliefs.
• They remind us to use our skills wisely: Therefore, each tool serves as a reminder that we should use our skills wisely and not abuse them for personal gain. This is especially important when it comes to leadership roles within Freemasonry, as leaders must use their power responsibly in order to lead effectively.
Overall, the working tools play an important role in Freemasonry by teaching members valuable moral lessons and reminding them about respect for authority figures and wise use of their skills. Through these symbols, Freemasons learn how to live their lives according to principles such as honesty, integrity, justice, equality and responsibility – principles which are essential for living in harmony with one another.
Utilizing the Working Tools to Build Character
Building character is an important part of development for children and adults alike. It helps us to live our lives in a more meaningful and productive manner. Working tools can be used to help us build our character and gain more self-awareness. Here are some of the ways we can use working tools to build character:
• Developing Self-Discipline: Working tools can help us develop self-discipline by teaching us how to take responsibility for our actions and commitments. We learn how to stick to a plan and complete tasks on time. Self-discipline also helps us make better decisions in the future.
• Setting Goals: Working tools also help us set goals that are achievable, realistic, and meaningful. We learn how to prioritize our goals and work towards them systematically. This helps us to stay focused on what is important and motivates us to keep moving forward in life.
• Understanding Ourselves: Working tools allow us to explore our own strengths and weaknesses so we can make better decisions about how we want to lead our lives. We also gain insight into the things that motivate us, which helps us become more self-aware.
• Improving Problem Solving Skills: Working tools help teach us how to identify problems, generate solutions, analyze their effectiveness, and take action if necessary. This encourages critical thinking skills which can be useful for both professional and personal development.
• Building Relationships: Working tools also help develop relationships with others by teaching us effective communication skills such as active listening, expressing ourselves clearly, understanding different perspectives, resolving conflicts amicably, etc. This helps build strong relationships with people around us as well as ourselves.
In summary, working tools are great resources that can be used to build character in both children and adults alike. These tools teach important life skills such as self-discipline, goal setting, problem solving, communication skills etc., which are essential for a successful life. It is important for parents and educators to use these working tools with their children or students so they can learn these valuable lessons early on in life.
In Reflection on Masonic Second Degree Working Tools
Masonic Second Degree Working Tools are symbolic tools that represent the tools of a working Mason. The Square and Compass, the Level and Plumb, and the Gavel are all important tools in Masonry. They are used to teach lessons of morality, integrity, and justice. Each tool has its own symbolism and each symbolizes something different for each Mason.
The Square represents morality, justice, and truth. The Compass stands for control over passions and desires. The Level symbolizes equality between men and women while the Plumb Line stands for uprightness in action. Therefore, the Gavel is used to break down falsehoods and create a path toward truth.
Masonic Second Degree Working Tools are important symbols of Freemasonry that can be found in Lodges all over the world. They represent the core values of Freemasonry: brotherly love, relief, harmony, temperance, fortitude, prudence, justice, faith, hope, and charity. They also remind Masons of their duty to uphold these values to their fellow man as well as themselves throughout their lives.
The true value of Masonic Second Degree Working Tools lies in their symbolic meaning which can be applied to our everyday lives. By reflecting on their meaning we can strive to live our lives with moral character and integrity while seeking truth in all things we do. Through this we can strive to live our lives as true Masons should: with honesty, honor, justice and brotherly love.