The First Step: Understanding the Entered Apprentice Mason
Your first encounter with Freemasonry is not as a member, but as a seeker. It begins with a question, a curiosity, a desire for something more than the mundane. This journey, should you choose to embark upon it, formally commences with the Entered Apprentice degree. It is the foundational experience, the very bedrock upon which a man’s entire Masonic edifice is built. This is not merely a title or a preliminary step, it is a profound and transformative initiation into a new way of seeing the world, and more importantly, a new way of seeing yourself.
The Entered Apprentice degree is a rich tapestry of symbolism, ancient allegories, and moral instruction. It is designed to impress upon the mind of the candidate the most essential tenets of the Craft: a belief in a higher power, the importance of charity, and the unending pursuit of truth. For the man who stands at the threshold of the lodge, this first degree is a deliberate and powerful step out of the darkness of ignorance and into the gentle, dawning light of Masonic knowledge. It is here that the rough stone of his character is first presented, ready to be shaped and polished by the tools of the world’s oldest and most honorable fraternity.
What is an Entered Apprentice Mason?
An Entered Apprentice is a Freemason who has received the first of the three symbolic degrees. The title itself is deeply meaningful, signifying that the individual has been "entered" into the Craft and is now an "apprentice," a learner, at the very beginning of his Masonic education.
This status is one of probation and instruction. The Entered Apprentice is considered a Brother Mason, yet he is in a state of tutelage. He is learning the foundational language, symbols, and moral principles of Freemasonry. His position is analogous to that of an apprentice in an ancient stonemason’s guild, who must first learn to handle the simplest tools and understand the nature of the stone before being entrusted with more complex tasks. He is a member of the Lodge, but his journey has just begun.
How Does One Become an Entered Apprentice?
A man becomes an Entered Apprentice through a deliberate and formal process that includes petitioning a Lodge, undergoing an investigation by its members, and being accepted through a unanimous, secret ballot. This process ensures that candidates are worthy and well-qualified, joining of their own volition for noble purposes.
The entire journey, from inquiry to initiation, is marked by solemnity and introspection. Freemasonry does not recruit members, so the first step must always be taken by the man himself. He must, in the traditional Masonic phrase, "ask" to receive the privilege of membership. This initial act of seeking is a critical first test of his genuine desire for self-improvement and enlightenment.
What are the qualifications for joining?
The primary qualifications are that a man be of lawful age, typically 18 or 21 depending on the jurisdiction, of good moral character, and believe in a Supreme Being. He must also petition for membership of his "own free will and accord," free from improper solicitation or mercenary motives.
The requirement of a belief in a Supreme Being is a cornerstone of Freemasonry, though the Craft does not demand subscription to any particular religion or dogma. This belief provides a common ground for men of diverse faiths to meet in harmony. The phrase "free born," a historic requirement, is today interpreted universally to mean that a candidate must be his own master, capable of making his own decisions, and not bound to the will of another. It speaks to a man’s moral and intellectual independence.
What happens during the initiation ceremony?
The initiation is a solemn and symbolic ritual drama that conveys profound moral and philosophical lessons through allegory. It is not a hazing or a frightening ordeal, but a dignified ceremony designed to make a lasting impression on the candidate’s mind regarding his duties to God, his neighbor, and himself.
A candidate is symbolically prepared for this ceremony. He is divested of all metallic substances to represent that he brings nothing of material wealth into the Lodge, but rather offers his internal character. He is hoodwinked, or blindfolded, to symbolize the state of darkness and ignorance that precedes enlightenment. This state of preparation underscores his dependence on faith and trust as he is guided through the ceremony by a trusted friend and Brother.
The ritual itself involves a symbolic journey, representing the challenges and progress of human life. The candidate is presented with the foundational moral teachings of the Craft and is introduced to the "working tools" of an Entered Apprentice. Every action, every word, and every symbol within the ceremony is layered with meaning, all of which is explained to him as he progresses. The culmination of this part of the journey is the restoration of light, a powerful moment that symbolizes his formal entry into the world of Masonic knowledge.
What Does an Entered Apprentice Learn?
An Entered Apprentice learns the most fundamental principles of Freemasonry, which are self-control, secrecy, and the essential virtues of a just and upright life. He is taught to subdue his passions, manage his time wisely, and begin the great work of divesting his mind and conscience of the vices and superfluities of life.
The lessons are not delivered as a dry lecture but are embedded in the rich symbolism of the degree. He learns that Freemasonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. His primary task is to begin deciphering these symbols and applying their moral teachings to his own character, laying a firm foundation for the man he aspires to become.
What is the symbolism of the working tools?
The working tools presented to an Entered Apprentice are the twenty-four-inch gauge and the common gavel, which hold deep moral significance. They are the first instruments given to him for the symbolic work of building his spiritual and moral temple.
The twenty-four-inch gauge is a ruler, representing the twenty-four hours of the day. It teaches the Mason to properly portion his time. He is instructed to divide his day into three equal parts: a portion for the service of God and a distressed worthy Brother, a portion for his usual vocations, and a portion for refreshment and sleep. It is a lesson in discipline, balance, and mindfulness.
The common gavel is a type of hammer used by operative masons to break off the rough corners of stones. Its symbolic use for a Freemason is to divest the heart and conscience of all the vices and superfluities of life. It represents the active, conscious effort required to chip away at one’s own imperfections, smoothing the "rough ashlar" of an uncultivated personality into the "perfect ashlar" fit for the builder’s use.
Why is the concept of light so important?
Light is arguably the most important symbol in all of Freemasonry, representing truth, knowledge, virtue, and spiritual enlightenment. The entire journey of a candidate, beginning with the Entered Apprentice degree, is a pilgrimage from darkness to light.
This symbolism is universal and profound. The candidate begins his journey in symbolic darkness, representing a state of ignorance or a life without the guiding principles of the Craft. His earnest request is for Masonic light. Receiving this light is the climax of his initiation, signifying the beginning of his intellectual and spiritual awakening. This quest for "more light" becomes a lifelong pursuit for the dedicated Mason, a continuous search for greater understanding and moral clarity.
What are the primary duties of an Apprentice?
The primary duties of an Entered Apprentice are to learn, to practice discretion, and to begin the work of self-improvement. He is expected to study the lessons of his degree, including memorizing certain portions of the ritual, to prove his proficiency before he can advance.
This memorization, often called the "proficiency," is not merely an academic exercise. It forces the new Mason to internalize the language and lessons of the degree, making them a part of his consciousness. Another key duty is to learn the importance of secrecy, or "tiling." This refers to the Masonic virtue of fidelity, of keeping the confidences of the Lodge and of his Brothers. Most importantly, his duty is to take the lessons of the gavel and the gauge to heart, actively working to improve his character and conduct his life with integrity.
What are the limitations of an Entered Apprentice?
An Entered Apprentice has specific limitations within the Lodge structure, which are designed to reinforce the progressive nature of Masonic education. He cannot vote on Lodge business, hold an elected office, or attend Lodge meetings when they are opened on the Fellow Craft or Master Mason degrees.
These are not punishments but are part of the educational framework. Just as an apprentice in a trade must master the basics before learning advanced techniques, the Entered Apprentice must focus solely on the foundational teachings of his degree. His limited access impresses upon him that there is more to learn and encourages him to apply himself to his studies so that he may earn the right to advance and receive more light in Masonry. He is a full Brother in heart, but a student in practice.
How does the Entered Apprentice degree relate to personal growth?
The Entered Apprentice degree is the starting point for a structured and lifelong path of personal growth. It provides the essential philosophical tools and the foundational mindset required to consciously build a better life based on virtue and integrity.
The central metaphor is that of the stonemason. The Entered Apprentice is taught to view himself as a "rough ashlar," a stone taken from the quarry in its natural, unrefined state. The teachings, symbols, and working tools of the degree are the instruments he will use to shape and smooth this stone. The ultimate goal is to transform himself into a "perfect ashlar," a well-formed and polished stone, fit to be a part of a greater spiritual structure. This allegory frames personal development not as a vague ambition but as a tangible, honorable work, a craft to be learned and practiced every day. It is about taking a good man and providing him with the framework to become a better man, a better husband, a better father, and a better citizen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an Entered Apprentice wear Masonic jewelry?
Generally, an Entered Apprentice is discouraged from wearing Masonic jewelry, such as rings or emblems. The privilege of wearing the Square and Compasses is typically reserved for Master Masons, who have completed the three symbolic degrees. This tradition reinforces the idea of earning rights and privileges through progress and dedication.
How long does it in take to advance from Entered Apprentice?
The time it takes to advance to the Fellow Craft degree varies significantly between Masonic jurisdictions and even individual lodges. It depends on the candidate’s ability to learn his proficiency work and the Lodge’s schedule for conferring degrees. The timeline can range from a few months to a year or more, with the focus always being on genuine comprehension rather than speed.
Is the Entered Apprentice initiation frightening?
No, the Entered Apprentice initiation is a solemn, dignified, and meaningful ceremony, not a frightening ordeal. Candidates are always treated with the utmost respect and dignity. While it is designed to be impactful and memorable, its purpose is to instruct and inspire, not to intimidate or cause distress.
Do all Freemasons go through the Entered Apprentice degree?
Yes, absolutely. The Entered Apprentice degree is the universal and non-negotiable first step for every single man who becomes a Freemason, regardless of his background, station in life, or the country in which he joins. It is the essential foundation upon which all other Masonic knowledge is built.
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Your journey as an Entered Apprentice is just the beginning. It is the first knock upon a door that opens into a universe of symbolism and self-discovery. To truly understand the esoteric architecture of your own character and delve deeper into the sacred geometry of the Craft, explore the authentic wisdom curated at Esoteric Freemasons. Let us be your guide as you transform your rough ashlar into a beacon of true Masonic Light.
