The Freemasons are a fraternal organization that has been around for centuries. The Freemasons have a unique set of body signs that are used to identify and recognize one another. These signs, which include handshakes and other gestures, are believed to have originated in the 16th century as a way for the members of this secret society to identify each other. Over time, these body signs have come to be used as a way to show solidarity and loyalty among members of the fraternity. The Freemasons still use these signs today, although they are not as widely known as they once were. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most common Freemason body signs and their meanings.
Freemason body signs are symbolic gestures used by Freemasons during Masonic ceremonies. These signs are also known as tokens or grips. They are used as a means of recognition among members and serve as a way of demonstrating allegiance to the fraternity. The most common Freemason body sign is the handshake, which is performed with the right hand in various ways depending on the degree of membership. Other Freemason body signs include various postures and hand gestures, such as the sign of the lion, sign of the Tyler, and sign of surprise.
The Origins of Freemason Body Signs
Masonic body signs are symbols and rituals used by Freemasons for communication between members. These signs have their origins in the medieval stonemason’s guilds, which were associations of craftsmen who built the great cathedrals and other structures throughout Europe. As the craft of stonemasonry evolved, so too did the associated signs and symbols used to identify members of the guild. In this article, we will explore how these body signs came to be used by Freemasons.
The earliest known use of body signs by Freemasons dates back to the 16th century. At this time, stonemasons formed craft lodges, which were essentially clubs that would meet in local taverns and other public places. The meetings were kept secret, and members had to be identified by a special sign or handshake known as a “grip”. This grip was used to distinguish between members and non-members, and was passed down from one generation to the next.
In 1717, four London lodges joined together to form what is now known as the Grand Lodge of England (GLE). This marked an important moment in Masonic history as it initiated a period of rapid growth for Freemasonry worldwide. As membership increased, so too did the number of different body signs that were developed for use within Masonic rituals.
One example is the “five points of fellowship” which is still practiced today by many Masonic lodges around the world. This involves five different physical gestures that symbolize friendship and brotherhood among Masons: foot-to-foot, knee-to-knee, breast-to-breast, hand-to-back and mouth-to-ear. These gestures are enacted during initiation ceremonies as a way of bonding new members with existing ones.
Another example is the “due guard” which was developed in England during the 18th century as a way for Masons to identify themselves when travelling from one lodge to another. This involves placing one hand on your forehead while extending your arm straight out in front with your palm facing up – a gesture that is still practiced today by many Masonic lodges around the world.
Therefore, there are also various gestures known as “tokens” which are used during Masonic rituals to signify agreement or disapproval among members without having to physically speak out loud. Examples include pressing your thumb against your forefinger or raising your right hand above your head while reciting a particular phrase or word – both gestures still practiced today within many Masonic lodges worldwide.
Overall, it is clear that body signs have been an integral part of Freemasonry since its inception centuries ago and continue to play an important role in its practices today.
The Masonic Handshake
The Masonic handshake is an integral part of Freemason meetings. It is a sign of recognition among members and a way to verify identities. The grip and words that accompany it are known as the “token” or “due-guard”. This handshake is used to identify a man as a Freemason, and he can use it in any lodge he visits.
The due-guard consists of two distinct parts: the grip and the words. The grip involves clasping hands in a specific manner, with the thumb pressing against a certain knuckle of the other Mason’s hand.
In addition to being used as a sign of recognition, the handshake also serves as a way for Masons to show their commitment to one another. By taking part in this ritual, members are pledging their loyalty to each other and their organization. This ritual can also be seen as an expression of trust between members, and it shows that they are all working together for the greater good of Freemasonry.
The Masonic handshake is not only important for members but also serves as an important symbol to outsiders. By displaying this gesture, Masons are showing that they are united in their beliefs and practices. It is also a reminder that all Masons should treat each other with respect and kindness, no matter what differences they may have outside the lodge walls.
The Masonic handshake has been used by Freemasons for centuries, and it continues to be an important part of meetings today. It serves as an enduring reminder of the brotherhood shared between members, while also demonstrating their commitment to one another’s safety and wellbeing. As long as Freemasonry exists, so too will its ritualistic handshake remain unchanged.
Meaning of Different Handshakes in Freemasonry
The handshake is an important part of Freemasonry, with each type having its own distinct meaning. While there are a few common handshakes shared between different branches, the meaning behind each one can vary. Here are some of the most popular types of Freemasonry handshakes and what they signify:
•The Entered Apprentice Grip: This is the most basic handshake in Freemasonry and it’s used as a form of recognition between members. It’s also known as the Mason’s Grip or Boaz Grip. The handshake symbolizes unity between Masons, regardless of their rank or title.
•The Fellowcraft Handshake: This handshake is similar to the Entered Apprentice grip, but with a slight twist. It’s used to symbolize unity among Masons who have achieved the second degree in Freemasonry.
•The Master Mason Handshake: This handshake is slightly more complex than the other two and it’s used by members who have achieved the third degree in Freemasonry. The purpose of this handshake is to signify that all Masons should strive to reach a higher level of understanding and knowledge.
•The Grand Master Handshake: This handshake is used by members who have achieved a high level within Freemasonry and it symbolizes respect for others and trustworthiness among all Masons.
These are just some examples of handshakes that are commonly used in Freemasonry, but there are many more that have different meanings depending on which branch you’re in. No matter which type you use, though, these handshakes serve as reminders that we’re all part of something bigger than ourselves – something special that should be respected and cherished.
Non-Verbal Communication Used in Masonic Lodges
Masonic lodges have their own unique set of symbols, gestures, and rituals that are used to communicate non-verbally. These rituals and symbols are used to signify the importance of the lodge and its members. By understanding these non-verbal signals, it can help members understand the messages being conveyed.
One of the most common non-verbal communication signals used in Masonic lodges is the handshake. This handshake is known as a ‘grip’ and is used to signify friendship and trust between fellow Masons. The grip is also used to identify fellow Masons when they meet outside of the lodge.
In addition to handshakes, Masons use a variety of other symbols and gestures to communicate. These include symbolic gestures such as raising a hand or finger, making a ‘V’ sign with two fingers, or pointing with one finger. Other gestures include pointing towards another Mason or moving hands in a circular motion around another Mason’s head or shoulders.
Masonic lodges also have their own set of symbols which are used to convey certain messages. These include the square and compasses symbol which represents moral rectitude; the skull and crossbones symbol which signifies mortality; and the all-seeing eye symbol which signifies divine providence. All of these symbols are used together to convey an overall message about morality, mortality, and divine providence within the lodge.
In addition to symbols and gestures, Masonic lodges also use certain words to further convey their messages. Phrases such as “may peace prevail”, “so mote it be”, or “God bless us all” are often uttered by members as they close their meetings. These words help create a sense of camaraderie among members while also conveying important messages about values and beliefs.
By utilizing non-verbal communication methods such as handshakes, symbols, gestures, and words, Masonic lodges create an atmosphere that is steeped in tradition while conveying important values about morality and faithfulness among its members. Understanding these important signals can help new members better understand what it means to be part of a Masonic lodge and how they can contribute positively within it.
Symbols and Gestures Commonly Used by Freemasons
Freemasonry is a fraternity that has been around for centuries, and its members use various symbols and gestures to communicate with one another. Some of the most commonly used symbols and gestures include:
- The Square and Compass: This is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Freemasonry, and it is used to represent the moral principles of the fraternity. The square stands for morality, while the compass stands for self-control.
- The All-Seeing Eye: This symbol has become increasingly popular in recent years, but it dates back centuries. It represents the eye of God, watching over all of mankind.
- The Letter G: This is often found in Masonic artwork, and it stands for Geometry – one of the seven liberal arts. It also represents God, as Geometry was thought to have been divinely inspired.
- The Trowel: This tool is used to spread love among Freemasons, just as a mason would use a trowel to spread mortar when laying bricks. It also symbolizes building relationships with fellow brothers.
- Handshakes: Freemasons also use secret handshakes to distinguish themselves from non-Masons. These handshakes vary depending on which Masonic lodge a person belongs to.
Each symbol or gesture has its own special meaning within Freemasonry. However, they all share one common theme – that morality should be upheld at all times. All members are expected to abide by this principle and treat their fellow man with respect. The symbols and gestures are simply a way for Freemasons to express this concept in an outward manner.
Masonic symbols can be found throughout popular culture today. Everything from films and television shows to books and music have incorporated these symbols into their content in some way or another. Whether you’re a Mason yourself or simply interested in learning more about this ancient order, taking time to familiarize yourself with these interesting symbols can be very rewarding indeed!
The Sign of Distress Used by Masons
Masonic Lodges around the world use a sign of distress when a fellow Mason is in trouble or needs help. This sign is used to indicate that the person in need is a Mason and requires assistance. The sign of distress has been used since the days of operative Masons, when it was used to indicate an emergency situation or a need for help.
The sign is made by raising both arms above the head, with palms facing outwards. This sign can be used in any situation where assistance is needed, such as during a natural disaster or if one is in danger and needs help. It can also be used in more peaceful situations, such as if one has lost their way and needs directions.
In some Lodges, the sign of distress may also be accompanied by certain words or phrases which are specific to that Lodge or jurisdiction. For example, some Lodges may require that the person in need repeat certain phrases such as “O Lord, my God!” or “Brothers, assist me!” These words are intended to provide further assurance to any Masons present that the person making the sign of distress is indeed a legitimate Mason and not an impostor.
The sign of distress serves an important purpose for Masons around the world; it allows them to offer assistance to their fellow brethren without fear of reprisal or judgment. It also serves as a reminder that all Masons should look out for each other and provide assistance whenever possible. In times of trouble or difficulty, it is comforting to know that one can call upon their Masonic brethren for assistance and support.
Positioning of the Hands When Making Masonic Signs
Masonic signs are an important part of the Freemasonry tradition and are used to convey messages between members of the fraternity. The positioning of the hands when making these signs is something that must be done with care and precision. It is important to understand how to properly position your hands in order to ensure that your message is properly conveyed.
The first step when making a Masonic sign is to hold your arms out in front of you, with your palms facing outward and your fingers spread apart. This will create a triangle shape with your arms, which symbolizes the Masonic symbol of brotherhood and equality.
The next step is to form a “V” shape with your thumbs and index fingers. This “V” shape symbolizes the strength and unity of the brotherhood. It is also a reminder that Freemasonry is based on principles of morality, justice, and truth.
Once you have formed this “V” shape, it’s time to move on to the next step: positioning your other fingers in a specific way. Your middle finger should be held straight up while your ring finger should be tucked beneath it, forming an angle similar to that of a triangle. Your little finger should be straightened outward as far as possible, as if you were pointing at something distant or unseen.
These three finger positions symbolize different aspects of Freemasonry:
- The middle finger stands for faith
- The ring finger stands for wisdom
- The little finger stands for strength
These three qualities are essential for any Freemason and must always be kept in balance in order for their journey through life to be successful and meaningful. By positioning their hands in this manner when making Masonic signs, Freemasons are reminded of this balance and can use it as a source of strength throughout their lives.
It is important to remember that each sign has its own specific hand position associated with it, so it’s important to take time to learn each one correctly before attempting them in public or during meetings. Doing so will ensure that you can properly communicate with other members without any confusion or miscommunication occurring due to incorrect hand positioning when making these signs.
Final Words On Freemason Body Signs
The freemason body signs are an interesting way to recognize and identify members of the masonic order. These signs are very symbolic and meaningful, providing a visual representation of the values and beliefs that the freemasons follow. They are also quite varied, with different signs being used by different orders.
It is evident that Masonic body signs have evolved over time to become more elaborate and complex. In addition to being used as a symbol of recognition among freemasons, these symbols have been used to communicate messages between members and to identify specific offices or roles within the organization.
The freemason’s body signs can be seen as an important part of the culture and values that make up this ancient organization. It is clear that they have been passed down through generations, providing a tangible link between past and present members of the masonic order.
Overall, it is clear that there is much more to learn about Freemasonry and its body signs than what meets the eye. There may be more information out there than we think, so it is important for us to continue researching these symbols in order to gain a better understanding of their meaning and significance.
As we explore these symbols further, we can gain insight into not only the beliefs of Freemasonry but also into their past practices and traditions. We may even discover new meanings behind these symbols that will help us better understand this ancient organization today.