The Square and Compasses,           given by Bro. David Mink 18 March 2009

 From an advertising standpoint the Square and Compasses have to be one of the most recognized symbols in the world. In a trademark dispute in the early 1800’s, the court ruled that even though the square and compasses were not protected by any trademark they were such well known symbols of Freemasonry that their use should be restricted and in 1872 the American Commisioner of Patents did just that by ruling that the square and compasses emblem could not be used in any trademark or trade name for commercial purposes.  In ancient times of course certain tools were required by a stonemason in order to work his trade, which was to build buildings that would stand the test of time. Nowadays we have all kinds of electronic devices in order to accurately build along straight lines and insure that all of our corners are square. But the ancient stonemasons of course used different methods to accomplish this task.One easy method of creating a right angle is by using the compasses to draw a circle. One would then draw a line from one point on the circumference to another point on the circumference going through the center of the circle as marked by the compasses. Then two more lines need to be drawn from the two previous points marked by the first line to a third point on the circumference. This is all well and good but rather impractical when needed on a large scale. The Pythagorean Theorem or 47th Problem of Euclid solves this dilemma by informing us that the length of the side of the triangle opposite the right angle (hypotenuse) squared is equal to the length of each of the other two sides squared and added together. Once this was known it was probably only a short time before someone pointed out that the consecutive numbers 3, 4 and 5 fullfill this requirement as 3² = 9 and 4² = 16 which together equal 25 or 5². So with this handy it is possible to create squares on a much larger scale. It is said that the ancient Egyptians used a similar method called “the stick method” in order to redraw their boundary markers after the annual Nile flooding. By marking a circle of string off in 12 equally spaced sections (the sum of 3, 4 and 5) one can then plant sticks in the ground spaced at 3, 4 and 5 mark intervals thereby creating a square.But for us as Speculative Masons what is important is the symbolism represented by the Square and Compasses which are such an integral part of Freemasonry. 1.      The square (which has two immovable legs at a ninety-degree angle) represents matter, and the compasses (which have movable or adjustable legs) represent spirit or consciousness. The fact that the square and compasses are regularly shown in combination suggests that matter and consciousness are interdependent realities. 2.      The square reminds Masons to “square” their actions by the “square of virtue,” and the compasses remind them to “circumscribe” their passions. In other words, Masons are reminded to keep their actions virtuous and their passions in control.3.      Webster’s New World Dictionary of the American Language defines square as “just; fair; honest; not crooked” which implies to us morality, truthfullness and honesty.4.      As measuring instruments, the tools represent judgement and discernment.5.      Even in ancient times the Chinese Philosopher Mencius, a disciple of Confucius, states “We are taught that just as the most skilled artificers are unable, without the aid of the Square and Compasses to produce perfect rectangles or perfect circles, so must all men apply these tools figuratively to their lives, if they would walk in the straight and even paths of wisdom and keep themselves within the bonds of honor and virtue.” And finally as I was told in my initiation “the Square to regulate our actions, and the Compasses to keep us in due bounds with all mankind, more particularly our Brethren in Freemasonry”

This Second article is a general discussion of Freemasonry

INTRODUCTION

Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. Below we explain Freemasonry as it exists under the Grand Lodge of Israel which is the corporate body governing Freemasonry .

The explanation may correct some misconceptions.

Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow ancient forms, and use stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides.

The Essential Qualification for Membership

The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is a belief in a Supreme Being. Membership is sopen to men of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential qualification and who are of good repute.

Freemasonry and Religion

Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. The one essential qualification means that Freemasonry is open to men of many religions and it expects and encourages them to continue to follow their own faith. It is not permitted for Freemasons to discuss these subjects at Masonic meetings.

The Three Great Principles

For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:

Brotherly Love - Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.

Relief - Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.

Truth - Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral stanards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives. 

 

Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards in all walks of life.

Charity

From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged. Today charitable work has expanded to include the whole community and in addition large sums are given to national and local charities.

Freemasonry and Society

Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members' duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their public and private responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own or anyone else's business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry. His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty and the teachings of Freemasonry itself.  

Secrecy

The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes of recognition. It is not a secret society, since all members are free to acknowledge their membership and will do so in response to enquiries for respectable reasons. Its constitutions and rules are available to the public. There is no secret about any of its aims and principles. Like many other societies, it regards some of its internal affairs as private matters for its members.  

Freemasonry and Politics

Freemasonry is non-political, and the discussion of politics at Masonic meetings is forbidden.

Other Masonic Bodies

Freemasonry is practised under many other Grand Lodges which set the same standards and promote the same principles as the Grand Lodge of Scotland. However, there are some Grand Lodges and other bodies which claim to be Masonic that do not meet these standards. For example some, do not require a belief in a Supreme Being, others permit their members as such to participate in political matters. For these reasons such bodies cannot be considered to be Masonically regular and Scottish Freemasons can have no Masonic contact with them.  

Conclusion

 A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to his God (by whatever name he is known) through his faith and religious practise; and then, without detriment to his family and those dependent on him, to his neighbour through charity and service. None of these ideas is exclusively Masonic, but all should be universally acceptable. Freemasons are expected to follow them.

http://www.freemasonry.org.il/ 

Disclaimer
The Contents of the following sites
are not sponsored nor endorsed
by the Grand Lodge of the State of Israel.
They are only used for educational purposes.