The Entered Apprentice Degree is the first degree of Freemasonry, and it is the foundation upon which the other Masonic Degrees are built. This degree is a symbolic representation of man’s progress from darkness to light, and the essential moral lessons contained within it are relevant to all who seek to better themselves and become better citizens. During this degree, candidates are taught the fundamental principles of Freemasonry, such as brotherly love, relief, and truth. They learn about the symbolism and allegory associated with Freemasonry, as well as its history and purpose. By the end of this degree, candidates will have gained a clear understanding of their role within Freemasonry and how they can contribute to its mission.
The Entered Apprentice Degree is the first of three Masonic degrees in Freemasonry and is the introductory degree of the Blue Lodge. This degree is essential to a Mason’s journey and provides the foundation upon which future Masonic knowledge and principles are built. It is during this degree that an individual learns the basic tenets of Freemasonry, such as morality, brotherly love, and charity.
The History of the Entered Apprentice Degree
The Entered Apprentice Degree is the first step in Freemasonry, and it is an important part of the brotherhood. This degree is believed to have originated in England during the 17th or 18th century. It is a traditional ceremony that has been shared among Masons for centuries.
The Entered Apprentice Degree is sometimes referred to as the “first degree” or “the initiation.” It is meant to be symbolic of a new Mason’s journey into the fraternity. The degree involves a variety of rituals, such as lectures and floor work, and each ritual has its own meaning and purpose.
Masons who have gone through the Entered Apprentice Degree are known as “Entered Apprentices.” They typically wear a white lambskin apron, a symbol of purity, innocence, and service to others. The degree also teaches Masons about morality, justice, brotherly love, charity, industry, faithfulness to one’s word, obedience to law, and other principles that are important in Freemasonry.
During the Entered Apprentice Degree ceremony, Masons must swear an oath or obligation that they will uphold secrecy about the rituals and activities conducted by Freemasonry. In addition to this oath of secrecy, Masons must also promise to be faithful in their duties and obligations as members of Freemasonry and follow all laws governing their behavior within the fraternity.
The rituals during this degree involve many symbols that represent various aspects of Freemasonry. These symbols can include tools such as compasses or plumb lines; colors such as blue or purple; numbers such as three; animals such as lambs or lions; plants such as acacia trees; shapes such as triangles; and much more.
The Entered Apprentice Degree helps prepare Masons for further advancement within Freemasonry by teaching them important lessons about morality and justice. It also helps initiate them into the world of Freemasonry so they can begin their journey within this ancient organization.
Symbols and Meanings of the Entered Apprentice Degree
The Entered Apprentice degree in Freemasonry is the first of three degrees. It is during this degree that a person becomes a Mason. The degree is full of symbolism, with each symbol having a meaning that points to the core values of Freemasonry. Below are some of the common symbols and their meanings in the Entered Apprentice degree:
• Compass and Square: This is one of the most iconic symbols associated with Freemasonry, symbolizing moral and spiritual guidance. The compass represents moral guidance, while the square represents spiritual guidance. Together, they form a balanced way forward.
• Level: The level is used as an emblem of equality among Masons, representing how all members are equal regardless of social class or rank.
• Trowel: The trowel symbolizes spreading brotherly love among Masons. It also serves as a reminder to use our skills and talents to help one another.
• Apron: The white lambskin apron serves as an emblem of innocence and purity, which should be upheld by all Masons in their daily lives.
• Columns: Two columns represent strength and stability, which are traits that all Masons should strive for both within themselves and within their Lodges.
These symbols offer insight into the beliefs held by those who practice Freemasonry, such as respect for equality, morality, spirituality and brotherly love. They serve as reminders to those who take part in Masonic rituals that these values should be upheld at all times during their journey through Masonry.
Requirements for Becoming an Entered Apprentice Mason
Becoming a Freemason requires a commitment to certain moral and ethical standards, including a belief in a Supreme Being. In addition, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to become an Entered Apprentice Mason. These include:
- Be of legal age (18 or older).
- Be of good character.
- Have a belief in a Supreme Being.
- Be recommended by two Master Masons.
- Pay the initiation fee and annual dues.
The first step toward becoming an Entered Apprentice is to find a lodge that is open for new members. Many lodges will hold open houses or other events specifically designed to recruit new members. After finding a lodge, prospective members must fill out an application form and provide letters of recommendation from two current Master Masons in good standing with their lodge. The letters should attest to the applicant’s character, morality, and belief in a Supreme Being. Once the application has been accepted, the candidate will be notified and asked to attend an initiation ceremony.
The initiation ceremony is structured around several symbolic rituals which serve to remind the candidate of their obligation to uphold the values and principles of Freemasonry. During this ceremony, they must swear an oath promising to abide by all Masonic laws and regulations as well as maintaining their commitment to morality and virtue. At the end of the ceremony, they will receive their Entered Apprentice Certificate.
In addition to attending the initiation ceremony, candidates must also pay an initiation fee as well as ongoing annual dues. The amount varies depending on each lodge’s individual dues structure, but is typically between $100-$200 for first-time members. The money collected from these fees helps cover operational costs such as lodge maintenance and charitable donations.
Therefore, one of the most important requirements for becoming an Entered Apprentice Mason is having good character.
The Entered Apprentice Degree is the first of three degrees in Freemasonry. It is the initiation level for new members. The rituals of this degree can be divided into three parts: Opening, Working, and Closing.
Opening
At the beginning of a meeting, all present members must be in their proper place and attire. After confirming that everyone is in attendance, the Worshipful Master will ask each member to sign the book of records and then give a password. He will then ask for a recognition sign from each brother present. Once complete, he will open the lodge and begin with an invocation.
Working
During this section, much of the initiation ritual takes place. The candidate is brought before the lodge where he must recite his name and occupation. He is then asked a series of questions which he must answer satisfactorily before being admitted to membership in the lodge. He then takes an oath to keep all of the secrets of Freemasonry safe before finally being presented with his Entered Apprentice Apron and Jewelry.
Closing
The closing portion of a meeting usually consists of reading minutes from previous meetings, making announcements, or collecting dues from members. After completing these tasks, all members present form a circle and join hands while saying a closing prayer or benediction led by the Worshipful Master. The lodge is then closed by repeating passwords given at opening until it returns to its original state.
The rituals during an Entered Apprentice Degree are important as they provide new members with an introduction to Freemasonry and its history as well as create bonds between current members that will last throughout their time as part of this organization.
Overview
Preparing for the Entered Apprentice Degree ceremony is a crucial part of the initiation process. This article will provide an overview of the preparations that must be taken before the degree is administered. It will also include information about the physical setup of the lodge room, as well as the necessary mental and spiritual readying that should be undertaken by all participants.
Physical Preparations
The lodge room must be physically prepared for the Entered Apprentice Degree ceremony. This includes setting up chairs in an appropriate manner, making sure there are enough lighting sources, and ensuring that all necessary props and tools are available. The table at which the ritual is performed should also be adorned with Masonic symbols such as a gavel and a square and compass.
Mental Readying
In addition to physical preparation, it is important to make sure that all participants are mentally ready for the degree ceremony. This means familiarizing oneself with the ritual beforehand, and understanding what is expected of each individual during the course of it. It is also important to take time to meditate on one’s personal journey before undergoing initiation into Freemasonry.
Spiritual Readying
Therefore, spiritual preparation is essential before undertaking an Entered Apprentice Degree ceremony. This could involve spending time in prayer or contemplation about one’s life path, as well as considering how one can best serve humanity in light of one’s newfound knowledge and experience gained through Freemasonry. Taking time to reflect upon these topics can help ensure that all participants are spiritually prepared for their initiation.
In reflection, there is much more to preparing for an Entered Apprentice Degree ceremony than simply physical readiness or even mental acuity – spiritual readying must also take place in order for a successful initiation into Freemasonry to occur. By taking time to consider these different aspects prior to undergoing this ritual, a more meaningful experience can be had by all involved.
The Words, Vows and Obligations of an Entered Apprentice Mason
As an Entered Apprentice Mason, you will be required to take certain vows and obligations. Your words will hold you accountable as a Mason and all of your actions will be guided by these words. Here are some of the words, vows and obligations that you will need to know as an Entered Apprentice Mason:
• You must always keep the secrets of a Mason. Anything that is shared within the lodge should remain confidential.
• You must follow the rules of Freemasonry and never break them.
• You must work to promote harmony and peace among all members of the lodge.
• You must always treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of their station in life.
• You must strive to improve yourself spiritually, intellectually, and morally on a daily basis.
• You must always seek knowledge and share it with other Masons.
• You must strive to make a positive impact on society by being a good example for others to follow.
• You must always be loyal to your Masonic brothers and sisters, no matter what trials or tribulations may come your way.
These are just some of the words, vows and obligations that you will need to follow as an Entered Apprentice Mason. There are many more that you will learn over time as you continue on your Masonic journey. As long as you keep these words in mind, you can be sure that you will be living up to the highest standards expected from all Masons worldwide.
The Significance of the Three Great Lights in Freemasonry
Freemasonry is full of symbolism, and the Three Great Lights are some of its most iconic symbols. The Three Great Lights are the Volume of the Sacred Law, the Square and Compasses, and the Blazing Star. Each of these symbols has its own meaning and significance within Freemasonry.
The Volume of the Sacred Law is a symbol of faith. It is a reminder to Masons to follow their faith as they work to improve themselves and their communities. The Square and Compasses represent morality; they remind Masons to act with integrity and honor in all their dealings. The Blazing Star is a symbol of knowledge; it reminds Masons to seek wisdom in all things.
The Three Great Lights also symbolize unity. By taking part in Freemasonry, members are committing themselves to not only improve themselves but also the world around them. They are joining together as one, working towards a common goal using their unique skills and talents. This sense of unity can be seen in many Masonic rituals, such as when Lodges come together for regular meetings or when initiates go through their initiation ceremonies.
Moreover, these symbols can be seen as an allegory for how a Mason should live his life: with faith, morality, and knowledge guiding him along his journey towards self-improvement. Each Mason must strive to embody these qualities each day in order to become an exemplary member of society who will be remembered for his good works long after he has passed on from this life.
The Three Great Lights remain an important part of Freemasonry today; they serve as both reminders and encouragements for Masons everywhere to continue striving towards becoming better versions of themselves every single day – no matter where they come from or where they go on their journeys through life.
Final Words On Masonic Entered Apprentice Degree
The Masonic Entered Apprentice Degree is truly an ancient and honorable system that has been passed down through the generations. It is a system of self-improvement, brotherly love, and service to others. Freemasonry teaches its members to be better people and to serve their communities. The Entered Apprentice Degree is the first step in a Freemason’s journey, and it sets the foundation for learning more about Freemasonry and its teachings.
The Entered Apprentice Degree is unique in that it has been around for centuries, yet still remains relevant today. It’s lessons are still applicable in today’s world, as it teaches men how to act with integrity, honor, justice, and humility. This degree emphasizes the importance of brotherly love and friendship among all men.
Masonic Entered Apprentices learn not only about basic Masonic principles such as charity and fellowship but also about personal responsibility and moral character. Through this degree they learn how to live a life of integrity and virtue, which can be applied in all aspects of life.
The Entered Apprentice Degree is an important part of Freemasonry. It provides an introduction into the world of Masonry and its teachings while also laying down the foundation for further exploration into Masonry’s depths. It is a great way to get acquainted with Masonic principles while becoming part of a larger community dedicated to service, self-improvement,and friendship.
Masons should take pride in being part of such an ancient order that still remains relevant today. Through their commitment to learning more about Freemasonry they can become true masters of their craft – both spiritually and intellectually – while helping others along the way.