What Does 33 Number Mean In Freemasonry

Freemasonry is an ancient fraternal organization that has long been associated with the number 33. This number is deeply symbolic and plays an important role in Freemasonry

In Freemasonry, the number 33 has a significant meaning and is often referred to as the “Master Mason Number.” This number is considered to be special as it is the highest degree attainable in Freemasonry and therefore represents a much higher level of knowledge and understanding.

Exploring the Origin of 33 as a Symbol in Freemasonry

Freemasonry is a fraternal order that has been around for centuries and is based on philosophical, moral, and spiritual principles. One of the symbols used in Freemasonry is the number 33. So why is it so important? Here we will explore the origin of this number and its significance to the organization.

The number 33 has been used by Freemasons since at least the 18th century, when it was mentioned in a Masonic ritual. It’s believed to have symbolic meaning, but there are several theories about what that meaning could be. One popular one is that it represents the 33 years that Jesus Christ lived on earth before his crucifixion. This theory suggests that the number 33 represents perfection, since Jesus was seen as being perfect in his life and teachings.

Another possibility is that it could represent the three degrees of Masonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. These three degrees are considered to be the foundation of Masonic ritual and belief.

It’s also been suggested that 33 may symbolize three important aspects of Freemasonry: unity, harmony, and brotherhood. Unity refers to how all Masons are united by a common set of beliefs and practices; harmony speaks to how Masons strive for peace and understanding between themselves; brotherhood refers to how Masons look out for one another as brothers.

Therefore, some believe that 33 could represent the trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – which is an important part of many religious traditions including Christianity.

Whatever its origin or meaning may be, 33 has become an important symbol within Freemasonry. It serves as a reminder of their shared beliefs and values, and helps to bind members together in their pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

33rd Degree Masons

The 33rd degree is the highest degree of Freemasonry, and it is reserved for members who have distinguished themselves in the order. The 33rd degree is an honorary degree bestowed upon members who have shown exemplary service to Masonry, their community, and humanity. It is a recognition of excellence and dedication that can only be awarded by a Supreme Council.

Members of the 33rd Degree are known as “Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret” or “Inspectors General.” These Masons have gone beyond the normal requirements for initiation and advancement, and they are expected to use their knowledge to help promote the ideals of Freemasonry.

To be eligible for the 33rd Degree, you must first be a 32nd Degree Mason in good standing with your lodge. You must also demonstrate a commitment to charity, service, and Masonic principles. Becoming a 33rd Degree Mason requires hard work, dedication, and an ongoing commitment to learning more about Freemasonry.

Once you’ve achieved the 32nd Degree, you will be considered for nomination by your local Grand Lodge or Supreme Council. If your nomination is accepted, you will then need to pass through several stages of examination by high-level Masons before being officially inducted into the 33rd Degree.

Once inducted as a 33rd Degree Mason, you will become part of an elite brotherhood that upholds the highest standards of integrity and service within Freemasonry. As such, they are expected to use their knowledge and influence to promote morality in society at large – both through charity work and public education on Masonic values. The initiated members are also expected to take part in important ceremonies that celebrate major milestones within Masonry such as building dedications or special events like membership initiations or anniversaries.

In addition to their ceremonial duties, members of the 33rd Degree are tasked with promoting philanthropic efforts within their respective lodges or regions. This could include helping develop charitable activities such as providing assistance to veterans or underprivileged children. They may also participate in local civic activities such as fundraising campaigns or educational programs.

The most important role of these elite Masons is that they serve as mentors for new initiates into Freemasonry – guiding them towards greater understanding and appreciation of Masonic principles while offering support along life’s journey. By setting an example through their own actions they help ensure that Freemasonry will continue its mission for generations to come.

33rd Degree Masons represent some of the best qualities that Masonry has to offer – exemplary service, dedication, commitment, integrity – all qualities worthy of recognition among men who strive for excellence both in themselves and those around them.

The 33rd Degree and Its Significance

The highest degree of Freemasonry is the 33rd degree, which is conferred by the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite. It is an honorary degree that can be bestowed upon a Mason who has demonstrated a commitment to the principles and ideals of Freemasonry. The 33rd degree is not required for membership in any Masonic Lodge, but it does provide its recipients with certain benefits, such as recognition within the Masonic community and access to special events.

The 33rd degree was created in 1801 by the Supreme Council of Scottish Rite Masons in Charleston, South Carolina. It has since become one of the most prestigious degrees within Freemasonry and is seen as a symbol of excellence among Masons. To become a 33rd degree Mason, a candidate must first be nominated by a current 33rd degree Mason or a member of their local Grand Lodge. The nomination must be approved by both the Supreme Council and their local Grand Lodge before they can receive their 33rd Degree.

The design of the 33rd Degree is based on ancient symbols that represent wisdom, strength, and knowledge. These symbols are often associated with esoteric wisdom and hidden truths that can only be found by those who are willing to seek them out. Additionally, many believe that receiving this degree grants its recipient special spiritual powers or abilities that will aid them in their travels through life.

One benefit of becoming a 33rd Degree Mason is that it allows members to attend exclusive events hosted by other high-ranking Masons from around the globe. These events often involve networking opportunities with other influential members of society, as well as discussions on various philosophical topics related to Freemasonry. Additionally, these events allow members to broaden their horizons and gain valuable insights into different cultures and philosophies from around the world.

Overall, becoming a 33rd Degree Mason provides numerous benefits for its recipients. It serves as recognition for those who have dedicated themselves to advancing Freemason ideals and gives them access to exclusive events with other influential people from around the world. Furthermore, it grants its recipients access to ancient symbols associated with esoteric knowledge that may help them on their path through life’s journey.

The 33rd Degree Symbolism in Masonic Rituals

Masonic rituals are steeped in symbolism and tradition, and the 33rd Degree is no exception. This degree is the highest degree of Freemasonry and is only awarded to a select few members who have achieved a high level of knowledge and dedication to the craft. The 33rd Degree is much more than just a number; it has deep symbolic meaning that goes beyond what can be seen on the surface. Here are some of the ways that this degree is symbolically represented in Masonic ritual:

  • The Number 33: The number 33 is symbolic of the highest levels of initiation in Freemasonry, as it represents the highest degree attainable by a Mason. In addition, it symbolizes perfection, as it is divisible by three (the trinity) and nine (the number of completion).
  • The Triangle: In Masonry, the triangle symbolizes wisdom, strength, and unity. It also represents the three Degrees that must be passed before attaining full membership in Freemasonry – Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason.
  • The Sun: The sun is often used to represent enlightenment, knowledge, and truth. It also serves as a reminder of one’s duty to “shine” upon those who may not have access to knowledge or truth.
  • The Square: The square symbolizes morality, balance, and justice. It also serves as an outward sign of one’s commitment to live according to Masonic ideals.
  • The Compass: The compass is symbolic of harmony between mankind and nature. It also reminds Masons to always conduct themselves with integrity.

These symbols are often used in Masonic rituals related to the 33rd Degree. For example, during an initiation ceremony for this degree, members may be asked to wear clothing with these symbols on them or use them in various ways during their ceremonies. Additionally, these symbols appear on documents issued by Grand Lodges related to this degree. They serve as reminders that those who have attained this level have been recognized for their dedication and commitment to Freemasonry’s goals.

Masonic rituals related to the 33rd Degree are meant not only as a way for Masons to honor those who have achieved this level but also as an opportunity for members at all levels of membership within Freemasonry to learn about its symbolism and traditions. By understanding these symbols better they will gain greater insight into what it means to be a Mason at all levels.

Understanding these symbols can help Masons appreciate why they should strive for excellence within Freemasonry so they can reach their maximum potential within its ranks. Ultimately however all Masons should remember that each individual’s path towards attaining this highest level will be unique; there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes achieving success within Freemasonry’s ranks.

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The Importance of Number 33 in Masonic Lodges

Number 33 is an important number within the Masonic lodges, and it is believed to represent the 33rd degree Mason, which is the highest level of achievement a Mason can attain. It is also associated with the perfect age of Jesus when he was crucified and rose again. This has made it a symbol of hope and faith for Masons all over the world.

Masons also use this number to represent the three degrees of light that are found in Freemasonry. These degrees are Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Each of these degrees represents a different level of knowledge and understanding about Freemasonry and its teachings.

Number 33 also has special significance in Masonic rituals because it is believed to be a number that embodies perfection and completion. This number can be seen as signifying that through knowledge, wisdom, courage, strength, humility, and dedication one can achieve perfection in life.

The teachings of Freemasonry include many symbolic references to Number 33. For instance, in some lodges there are 33 Oaths taken by members to uphold their obligations as Masons. In many ceremonies, members recite a verse from Psalm 133: “Behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” The number 3 also appears frequently in Masonic rituals as well as other symbolism related to Number 33.

Number 33 plays an important role in Masonic rituals because it serves as reminder that Freemasonry seeks perfection through knowledge, wisdom, courage, strength, humility, and dedication. By following these principles Masons can achieve greater understanding about life and its purpose. It is a reminder that through hard work anything can be achieved if one puts their mind to it.

Masons also believe that Number 33 represents unity among members of the Order by reminding them that they are all part of the same brotherhood regardless of race or religion. This number serves as a reminder for Masons to remain united with each other while still recognizing their individual gifts and talents.

Number 33 has been an important symbol within Freemasonry since its inception centuries ago and continues to have meaning today among Masons all over the world who strive for perfection through dedication and hard work.

The Degrees of Freemasonry and Their Symbolic Meanings

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization made up of different degrees and orders. Each degree has its own symbolic meaning and purpose. The symbolism of each degree is meant to represent the journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth that Masons strive for. Here are some of the most important degrees in Freemasonry, and what they symbolize:

• Entered Apprentice: This is the first degree in Freemasonry, and it is meant to represent a man’s entrance into the fraternity. It symbolizes his willingness to learn, grow, and serve others as a Mason.

• Fellowcraft: This degree represents a Mason’s journey towards understanding himself and acquiring knowledge about morality. It is meant to symbolize the pursuit of truth through study and contemplation.

• Master Mason: This third degree is thought to be the highest level a Mason can reach in his lifetime. It symbolizes a man’s ability to gain wisdom through experience, as well as his capacity for leadership within the fraternity.

• Scottish Rite: This series of degrees emphasizes morality, philosophy, and spirituality in Freemasonry. It consists of 29 different degrees that are all meant to represent different aspects of human life from birth to death.

• York Rite: This series also consists of 29 different degrees that draw upon both Christian symbolism and Masonic tradition. Its focus is on helping Masons become better citizens in their communities by emulating Christian values such as charity, faith, integrity, justice, kindness, temperance, truthfulness, etc.

The Degrees in Freemasonry are more than just symbols – they are meant to guide Masons on their journey towards self-improvement and enlightenment. By understanding these symbols and embodying their meanings in their daily lives, Masons can become better people for themselves and for others around them!

The Number 33 and Masonry

The number 33 is often associated with Freemasonry, a fraternal organization that dates back to the 1600s. The number has become an important symbol in the organization, and is believed to have a special spiritual significance.

Masons believe that 33 represents the highest degree of initiation in the order, and it is seen as a symbol of enlightenment and ultimate wisdom. Freemasons often use the number to represent their allegiance to the fraternity and its teachings.

Another interpretation of 33 is that it symbolizes the 33rd degree of Masonry, which is an honorary degree conferred on Masons who have achieved high distinction within the order. This honor is reserved for those who have exemplified excellence in their service to Freemasonry.

The number 33 also appears in many Masonic symbols. For example, there are three degrees of initiation into Freemasonry, each represented by three columns or pillars. Thus, when all three pillars are combined together, they form 33 steps or levels leading up to enlightenment.

The number 33 also appears in Masonic artwork and literature. In some instances it may be used as a representation of perfection or completion—in other words, that which has no end or beginning. It may also represent eternal life or spiritual growth, representing the journey from darkness to light as one advances through Masonic degrees.

Therefore, it’s worth noting that some believe that there are actually 32 degrees of Masonry plus one “hidden” degree—the Thirty-Third Degree—which can only be attained by members who have achieved exceptional service within the fraternity. This hidden degree may be symbolic of reaching a higher level of spiritual understanding or enlightenment beyond what is attainable through conventional means.

Overall, while there is no single definitive answer as to why the number 33 holds such significance in Masonry, many Masons attribute great importance to this enigmatic figure—symbolizing both their progress within the order and their commitment to its teachings and ideals.

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In Reflection On What Does 33 Number Mean In Freemasonry

The number 33 is a highly symbolic number in Freemasonry, and its significance has been debated for centuries. It is believed to represent the highest degree of spiritual enlightenment, and has also been linked to the 33 degrees of Freemasonry. Additionally, it is seen as a representation of the power of God, symbolizing His divine presence in all aspects of life. Furthermore, it may also represent the idea that we are all connected to each other as part of a greater spiritual whole.

While much about the meaning behind the number 33 remains shrouded in mystery and debate, it is clear that Freemasons have long held this number in high esteem as a symbol of their organization’s core beliefs. Its influence can be seen in many aspects of Masonry, from rituals and symbols to even their own form of language. As such, it serves to remind us all that we are all part of something much greater than ourselves, and that we should strive for spiritual enlightenment through our actions and thoughts.

Therefore, it is important to remember that no single interpretation can be definitive when it comes to understanding the symbolism behind the number 33. Each individual Mason will likely ascribe his or her own meaning to this powerful symbol. Ultimately, whether one believes in its power or not, there is no denying its importance within Freemasonry’s history and traditions.

3 thoughts on “What Does 33 Number Mean In Freemasonry”


  1. The 33rd degree is the highest degree of Freemasonry, and it is reserved for members who have distinguished themselves in the order. The 33rd degree is an honorary degree bestowed upon members who have shown exemplary service to Masonry, their community, and humanity. It is a recognition of excellence and dedication that can only be awarded by a Supreme Council.


  2. The most important role of these elite Masons is that they serve as mentors for new initiates into Freemasonry – guiding them towards greater understanding and appreciation of Masonic principles while offering support along life’s journey. By setting an example through their own actions they help ensure that Freemasonry will continue its mission for generations to come.


  3. While much about the meaning behind the number 33 remains shrouded in mystery and debate, it is clear that Freemasons have long held this number in high esteem as a symbol of their organization’s core beliefs. Its influence can be seen in many aspects of Masonry, from rituals and symbols to even their own form of language. As such, it serves to remind us all that we are all part of something much greater than ourselves, and that we should strive for spiritual enlightenment through our actions and thoughts.

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