M. Magnitude, moderation, and magnanimity.

A. Affability, affection, and attention.
S. Silence, secrecy, and sincerity.
O. Obedience, order, oeconomy.
N. Noble, natural, and neighbourly.
R. Rational, reciprocal, and receptive.
Yielding, yearning, and Yare. The elucidation of this acrostic having been published
many masonic works, and consequently being well known, it is unnecessary to introduce it here.
in "i7'i7 MASTER. It was the custom and pra
Masons are considered Grand Masters by preroS during hfe; and in that case they had the privE of appointing a deputy to preside over the FrateraHv wi
ACT— ADD. 405
the tit.e aud honours of Grand Master. And in the year 1782 a motion was made in Grand Lodge that whenever a prince of the blood honoured the society by accepting the office of Grand Master, he should be at liberty to nominate any peer of the realm to the office of Acting Grand Master.
ACTIVE. A lodge is called active when it assemble egularly ; and a brother when he is a working member of such a lodge. Many brethren visit a lodge who never or very seldom take part in lodge work, either because they live too far distant from the lodge, or that the labour is not sufficiently interesting. Every lodge and every officer ought to strive diligently to avoid the last imputation, but if they find their endeavours in vain, and that there is any brother who will not pay due attention to the work, they ought to endeavour to reclaim him, first by fraternal remonstrances ; if those do not avail, by punishment. By the death or removal of the members, a lodge may become inactive for a time, and it is bettei that it should be so than that the continuing of the work should be entrusted to inexperienced officers. — Gadicke.
ADAM. That the first parents of mankind were instructed by the Almighty as to his existence and attri butes, and after their fall, were further informed of the Redemption which was to be perfected by Christ, and as a sign of their belief, were commanded to offer sacrifices to God, I fully assent to the creed of Masonry in believ- ing. It is also highly probable that symbolical actions should have been instituted by them in memory of their penitence, reverence, sympathy, fatigue, and faith, and that these might be transmitted to posterity. — Archdeacon Mant.
ADDRESS. Those who accept offices and exercise authority in the lodge, ought to be men of prudence aud address, enjoying the advantages of a well-cultivated mind and retentive memory. All men are not blessed with the same powers and talents ; all men, therefore, are not equally qualified to govern. He who wishes to teach must submit to learn : and no one can be qualified
406 ADD— ADO.
to support the higher offices of the todge who has not previously discharged the duties of those which are sub- ordinate. Experience is the best preceptor. Every mar may rise by gradation, but merit and industry are th first steps to preferment. — Preston.
ADDRESSING. No brother shall speak twice to the same question, unless in explanation, or the mover in reply. Every one who speaks shall rise, and remain standing, addressing himself to the Master, nor shall any brother presume to interrupt him, unless he shall be wandering from the point, or the Master shall think fit to call him to order ; but, after he has been set right, he may proceed, if he observe due order and decorum. — Constititiions.
ADMISSION. Not more than five new brothers shall be made in any one lodge on the same day, nor any man under the age of twenty-one years, unless by dispensa- tion from the Grand Master or Provincial Grand Master. Every candidate for admission must be a freeman, and his own master, and, at the time of initiation, be known to be in reputable circumstances. He should be a lover of the liberal arts and sciences, and have made some pro- gress in one or another of them. — Constitutions.
ADMONITION. If a brother grossly misconduct him- self, let him be admonished privately by the W. M. ; try every gentle means to convince him of his errors ; probe the wound with a delicate hand ; and use every mild expedient to work his reform. Perhaps he may save his brother, and give to societv a renewed and valuable member.
ADONA1. The Jews are said to have substituted the \*ord Adouai for the uncommunicable name; but this admits of some qualification. St. Jerome, and after him Bellarmine, doubted the fact, because Jehovah and Adonai were two several names of God, and equally legitimate; and in some instances were appoirted to be used in conjunction, as Jehovah Adonai ; and the Sep- tuagmt uses the word Kurios.
ADO— ADY. 407
ADONIRAM. This prince was appointed by King Solomon to superintend the contributions towards build- ing the temple, as well as the levy of 30,000 Israelites to work by monthly courses in the forest of Lebanon. For this purpose, and to insure the utmost regularity, an old masonic tradition informs us that 'he divided them into lodges, placing three hundred in each, under a Master and Wardens, himself being G. M. over all. He was also constituted by the king one of the seven Grand Superintendents, and Chief of the Provosts and Judges.
ADVANCED. In a Lodge of Mark Masters, this term is appropriately applied to the candidate when he is invested with the degree of Mark Master, that being the first step in his progress to higher attainments in the knowledge of the science of Masonry, and of his advance- ment toward the Royal Arch degree.
ADVENT. We are well assured of the existence of Masonry at the time of the advent of our Lord upon earth, when it received the assistance of those two great lights, who are to this day commemorated in our lodges in gratitude for the kindness received from them. We have reason to believe that the secrecy of our Order was often useful to conceal, and its universal benevolence to preserve, Christian professors, in the early ages of the church, from the malice of their bitter enemies ; and it is certain that there are to be found in the writings of the fathers many allusions of an undoubtedly masonic cha- racter.— Archdeacon Mant.
ADYTUM. In the British and other Mysteries the three pillars of Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty repre- sented the great emblematical Triad of Deity, as with us they refer to the three principal officers of the lodge. We shall find, however, that the symbolical meaning was the same in both. It is a fact that in Britain the Adytum or lodge was actually supported by three stones or pillars, which were supposed to convey a regenerating purity to the aspirant, after having endured the cere- mony of initiation in all its accustomed formalities. The delivery from between them was termed a new birth.
408 AFF— AGE.
The corresponding pillars of the Hindu Mythology were also known by the names of Wisdom Strength, and Beauty, and placed in the east, west, and south, crowned with three human heads. They jointly referred to the Creator, who was said to have planned the Great Work bv his infinite Wisdom; executed by his Strength; and to have adorned it with all its Beauty and usefulness for the benefit of man.
AFFABILITY. The ancient lodges were so many schools or academies for teaching and improving the arts of designing, especially architecture ; and the present lodges are often employed that way in lodge hours, or else in agreeable TonveVsation, though without politics or party feeling ; and none of them are ill employed ; have 'no transaction unworthy of an honest man or a gentleman ; no personal piques, no quarrels, no cursing and swearing, no cruel mockings, no obscene talk, or ill manners, for the noble and eminent brethren are affable to the meanest ; and these are duly respectful to their betters in harmony and proportion ; and though on the level, yet always within compass, and according to the square and plumb. — Euclid.
AGE. It is men of mature age and sound judgment alone who can preserve the Order in its native purity ; and those lodges whose officers are careful to act in strict accordance to the laws and to the spirit of Freemasonry will always have a supply of men of mature age as can- didates. In the lectures the question of age occurs, but that refers merely to the degree wrought upon. In the ancient mysteries the mystical age of 1, 3, 5, and 7, refer to so many years of probation. — Gadicke. The symbolic ge of an Entered Apprentice is 3 years, of a Fellow- ;raft 5, and a Master Mason 7 ; a Petit Architect 21, and a Grand Architect 27 ; that of a Knight of the East is 70 ; a Prince of Jerusalem 5 x 15 = 75 ; a Secret Master, a Maitre Ecossais, and a Prince of Mercy, 81 ; and a Scotch Knight 500 years. It was by this figurative way of reasoning that the celebrated impostor the Count St Germain, boasted that he was 500 years old
AGLA. One of the twelve Cabalistic names of God
AGL— AHO. 409
The other eleven were: Ehje, Jehovah, Elohim, El, Gibbor, Eloah, Sabaoth, Isebaoth, Schaddai, Adonai, and Makom. It is introduced here because some of 'our brethren of the last century used the word as an inscrip- tion in Hebrew characters for " tho lodge " represented on the floor-cloth.
AH^MAN REZON. Dr.Mackey says these words ar derived from the Hebrew ahim, brothers, manah, to pre pare, and ratzon, the will or law ; and signifies, therefore literally, " the law of prepared brothers." Others con- tend that the derivation is from achi man ratzon, " the opinions of a true and faithful brother." It was the title adopted for their Book of Constitutions by the section which split off from our Grand Lodge about the year 1740, and denominated themselves, by way of distinction, Ancient Masons.
AIR. Every human being at his birth becomes sub ject to the action of three elements. He comes out o' water, passes through the air, and when he arrives at maturity, he is under the influence of fire. It is only at his death that he can participate of the fourth element (the. earth). When he is initiated into the mysteries of Masonry, he is proved by the three elements of water ; air, and fire — Rosenberg.
AHOLIAB. Of the tribe of Dan. It is observed by R. Bechai, that God chose one out of the lowest tribe (for so they accounted that of Dan), as well as one out of the chief, which was Judah ; that Bezaleel might not be lifted up with vain conceit ; for great and small are equal before God. And he truly observes, that one of the same tribe of Dan, by the mother's side, was the most skilful person that could be found for the building of the Temple by Solomon. There were several, no doubt, who had a natural genius to such arts as were necessary in this work, but they could not, by their own industry, have attained such skill as God bestowed on Aholiab and Bezaleel ; at least not e>?> soon, as to go immediately about the building of the Tabernacle, and all things belonging to it. — Bishop Patrick.
410 AKI— ALL.
AKIROK The name of an assassin at the building of King Solomon's Temple.
ALERT. As everything in Freemasonry ought to be performed with the precision of perfect discipline, it behoves all the officers of a lodge to be ever on the alert in the discharge of their respective duties, that the breth- ren may have continually before them an example of order and regularity worthy of imitation ; for it is only by the correct demeanour of the rulers and governors of the Craft, that the machinery of a lodge can be bene- ficially worked, and its labours conducted with such effect as to- produce the blessings of peace, harmony, and brotherly love.
ALEXANDRIA. The inundations of the Nile caused the inhabitants great rejoicings. But it usually happened that when the waters had subsided, and they returned to their agricultural pursuits, the sediment which had been deposited by the retreating river had obliterated their temporary laud-marks, which originated violent disputes respecting their several localities. Being at length tired of these annual contentions, and hearing that a lodge of Masons was in existence at Alexandria, over which Euclid presided, the Egyptians resolved to refer all liti- gated matters to this Grand Lodge. Euclid undertook the task, and with the assistance of his Grand Warden, Straton the philosopher, collected the scattered elements of geometry, and formed them into a regular system, by which means the people were instructed how to measure and apportion their lands, and renew their boundary marks, without any infringement of each others rights or property.
ALLEGORY. The two sons of Abraham, Ishmael, born of Agar his handmaid, and Isaac, born of Sarah the free-woman, contain an allegory in which the name iu put for the thing signified or represented by it ; for these two women and their children are, by representation, the two covenants ; the one covenant being that from Mount Smai, gendering to bondage, which is, by representation, Agar the bond-woman, and so bearing a child which also
ALL— ALP. 411
was in bondage, for that which is signified by Agar, from whom Ishraael descended, is Mount Sinai in Arabia, whence the law was given; and this Agar answers to Jerusalem that now is, and is in bondage with her child- ren to the law, as the bond-woman and her child were to Abraham ; but the Jerusalem which is above, is by repre- sentation Sarah the free-woman, whose son was born, not according to the flesh, but " according to the promise." " Lo then, brethren, we are not the children of the bond- woman, but the free." — Whitbij.
ALL-SEEING- EYE. Whom the Sun, Moon, and Stars obey, and under whose watchful care even comets per- form their stupendous revolutions, beholds the inmost recesses of the human heart, and will reward us accord- ing to our works. — Lectures.'
ALLUREMENTS. Masonry is one of the most sub lime and perfect institutions that ever was formed for the advancement of happiness and general good of man- kind ; creating, in all its varieties, universal benevolence and brotherly love. It holds out allurements so capti- vating as to inspire the brotherhood with emulation to deeds of glory, such as must command, throughout the world, veneration and applause, and such as must entitle those who perform them to dignity and respect. It teaches us those useful, wise, and instructive doctrines, upon which alone true happiness is founded ; and at the same time affords those easy paths by which we attain the rewards of virtue ; it teaches us the duties which we owe to our neighbour, never to injure him in any one situation, but to conduct ourselves with justice and impartiality ; it bids us not to divulge the mystery tc the public, and it orders us to be true to our trust, and above all meanness and dissimulation, and in all our vocations to perform religiously that which we ought to do. — Duke of Sussex.
ALPHA and OMEGrA. From eternity to eternity This mode of speech is borrowed from the Jews, who express the whole compass of things by x aleph and n tau, the first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabets ; but aa
412 ALT— AME.
St. John was writing in Greek, he accommodates tlie whole to the Greek alphabet, of which A alpha and Q omega are the first and last letters. With the rabbins in iy\ ixn mealeph vcad tau, "from aleph to tau" expressed the whole of a matter from the beginning to the end ; as Adam trans- gressed the whole law from aleph to tau, i. e. from the beginning to the end. — Adam Clarke.
ALTAR. An altar must be a most holy place to every Christian, and more especially to every true wor- shipper of God. It was so to the first nations who conceived the idea of a Most High being. High above all the stars they conjectured was his most elevated seat. They fell upon their knees when they worshipped Him, as more emblematical of the immense distance they were removed from Him ; and they built altars, upon which they offered fruits and other things, that the smoke might arise towards Him, as a proof of their gratitude. We, as enlightened Christians and Freemasons, make no offerings of fruits upon our altars, neither are they any more to be found upon the tops of mountains, or in the depths of the caverns, but under a cloudy canopy, as emblematical of the heavens, and our offerings are the hallowed obligations of a grateful and pious heart. —
/~» 7 ' 7 ^
(jraaicfce.
AMERICA. The Americans appear to be more gene rally versed in the principles of the Order than the brethren of this country ; which is owing, I conceive, to the genial operation of its local Grand Lodges. Every brother may become a ruler of the Craft, and a Master in Israel, by his own meritorious exertions. The offices oi Grand Lodge are open to industrious and worthy brethren who have given proof of their excellence in the art ; an this facility of promotion excites a spirit of friendly emu- lation which operates favourably For society at large. The several Grand Lodges also are engaged in an amicable contest which shall carry out the best interests ot Masonry most effectually; and hencs we find no- img in Masonry as it is practised there to condemn,
it everything to commend. They do not waste their time in talking— debates upon all speculative questions
AMB— AMP. 413
being left to the several committees or boards. The Grand Lodges have to determine merely upon their reports, which are usually found to be drawn up with so much judgment and discrimination as not to be sus- ceptible of any hostile opinion ; and hence their members are seldom in collision with each other.
AMBITION. The possession and exercise of authority is a matter of honourable and proper ambition in every brother who really prizes the institution into which he has been initiated, and who wishes to render his Masonry productive of its legitimate fruits — the moral improve- ment of his mental faculties. It is to be regretted, how- ever, that this ambition, so praiseworthy when exercised within its due bounds, is too frequently indulged, even to an unlimited extent, by brethren who, though in other respects worthy, do not possess the requisite talent or industry to confer distinction. Or, in other words, the ambition is more frequently for the office, than for the qualification to execute it with credit to themselves or benefit to the community over which they have been called on to preside.
AMMI. Say ye unto your brethren, Ammi ; and to your sisters, Ruhamah. Although the Israelites, in the days of Hosea, were in general corrupt, and addicted to idolatry, yet there were among them in the worst times some who had not bowed down the knee to Baal. These were always Ammi and Ruhamah ; God's own people and a darling daughter. It is probable that God here commissions these faithful few to admonish the inhabit- ants of the land in general of the dreadful judgments that would be brought upon them by the gross idolatry of the Jewish church and nation. Speak to your brethren, 0 Ammi (O my people), and to your sisters, O Ruhamah (O darling daughter). — Bishop Horsley.
AMPLE FOEM. When the Grand Master performs any Masonic ceremony in person it is said to be in " ample form ; " if by the Deputy Grand Master it is in " due form ; " and if by any other person it is " in form." " Due and ancient form" is often applied in place of the above terms. 35
4M ANC.
ANCIENT CHARGES. To define the authority of Masons in the clearest and most simple manner, our ancient brethren made them the subjects of a series of exhortations ; which is one of the most valuable legacies that in their wisdom they have bequeathed to us. allude to the Ancient Charges, which have been so iudiciously incorporated into our Book of Constitutions and which every Mason would do well to study with attention, that they may be reduced to practice whenever their assistance is needed. These charges are sufficiently comprehensive, and embrace an epitome of every duty which the Mason is enjoined to perform. And as a commentary on them, the Grand Lodge has thought proper, in its Constitutions, to enumerate these various duties more minutely, and to make the breaches of them penal, whilst honours and rewards are held out to those worthy brothers who have been distinguished by regu- larity and decorous conduct.
ANCIENT MASONS. In the year 1739 a few breth- ren, having violated the laws of Masonry, were expelled from the Grand Lodge, and adopted the bold measure, under the fictitious name of the Ancient York Constitu- tion, of constituting lodges, which were pronounced independent of the Grand Lodge. And the latter, for the purpose of producing a marked distinction between the two systems, resolved at length to adopt the expedient, apparently rendered necessary by the emergency, but extremely ill-judged, of introducing a slight alteration into the system, which might have the effect of detect- ing the schismatics, and thus excluding them from the orthodox lodges. The resolution was unfortunate, and produced the very evil it was intended to avert. It proved a source of exultation and triumph to the seced- ing brethren. They loudly exclaimed against what they called an alteration of the landmarks, as an unprece- dented and unconstitutional proceeding; accused the Grand Lodge of having deviated from ancient usage, and confer- red upon all its members and adherents the invidious epithet of Modern Masons, while they appropriated to them- selves the exclusive and honourable title of "Ancient Maaons, acting under the old York Constitutions, cement-
ANC— AND.
ed and conseciated by immemorial observance." Taking advantage of this popular cry, they proceeded to the for- mation of an independent Grand Lodge, drew up a code of laws for its government, issued warrants for the con- stitution of new lodges " under the true ancient system of Freemasonry ;" and from the fees arising out of these proceedings, they succeeded in establishing a fund of benevolence, besides defraying the current expenses ol *~he institution.
ANCHOR. The hope of glory, or of the fulfilment of all God's promises to our souls, is the golden or pre- cious anchor, by which we must be kept steadfast in the faith, and encouraged to abide in our proper station, amidst the storms of temptation, affliction, and persecu- tion.— Scott.
ANCHOR AND ARK. The ark and anchor are emblems of a well-grounded hope and a well-spent life. They are emblematical of that divine ark which triumph- antly bears us over this tempestuous sea of troubles; and that anchor which shall safely moor us in a peaceful harbour, where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest.
ANDERSON. Dr. Anderson lived in the beginning of the 18th century, and it is from him that we have the so deservedly celebrated Book of Constitutions of the Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons. The first part contains the history of the Order, and the second contains the charges, rules, laws, duties, &c., together with an historical account of the origin oi the Order. Anderson, in the dedication to the then Prince of Wales, calls himself Secretary to the Grand Lodge in London, and states that the work was composed by the command of the Grand Lodge, from its archives, traditions, and lodge-books. The first edition appeared in 1723, a second in 1738 ; since then various editions have been published, viz., one by Entick, in 1758, one in 1776, one in 1784, by Noorthouck, and in 1S06 the latest- To the second edition a superior privilege was attached ly the Grand Lodge in London, no other constitution
416 ANG.
book being allowed in the lodges but that of Anderson, and no alteration being allowed to be made in ]t. Al- though in this work the history of Freemasonry is carried back to the creation, yet the information it has been the means of preserving with regard to the duties of a 1 ree mason, the constitutions of the Order, and the history ot the English lodges, make it a valuable work, and cause it to be highly prized by every lodge and every brother In the first edition no mention is made of the formation of the Grand Lodge in London in 1717, but is added to the second edition. There is a German translation pub- lished at Frankfort-on-the-Maine, and various French editions. — GadicTce.
ANGEL OF -JEHOVAH. The Angel of Jehovah who appeared at the B. B. has been conjectured to be Michael, the leader of the Host of Heaven, who appeared also to Joshua and Daniel ; but he was really and truly the captain of our salvation, or Jehovah himself the Creator of the world, or Jesus Christ, called by Masons the Grand Architect of the Universe, who only hath immortality, dwelling in the Light which no man can approach unto. This divine Being called to Moses by his name, and commanded him to approach with naked feet, because the ground on which he stood was holy, or consecrated by the divine Presence. And there- fore Moses took off his shoes in obedience to the divine command, and prostrated himself before the Deity.
ANGERONA. The goddess of silence. Both the Romans and Egyptians worshipped the gods and god- desses of Silence. The Latins particularly worshipped Angerona and Tacita, whose image stood upon the altai of the goddess Volupia, with its mouth tied up and sealed because they who endure their cares with silence and patience, do, by that means, procure to themselves the greatest pleasure. There is a beautiful female statue. executed in the finest style of Grecian art, in the Town- ley Gallery, room iii., No. 22, which some think to be a figure of this goddess.
ANGLES. Geometrical figures, as= lines, angles.
ANG— ANO. 417
squares, anJ perpendiculars, were ranked amongst the symbols 01 Druidism, as well as Freemasonry. As the Druids had no enclosed temples, thinking them inconsist- ent with the majesty of the gods, so neither had thev any carved images to represent them, and for the sami reason ; but instead thereof rude stones were erected ii their places of worship at some mystic significant dis tance, and in some emblematical number, situation, anc plan ; sometimes in right lines, sometimes in squares, some- times in triangles, sometimes in both ; now single, ana fifty paces distant or more from the circles ; or eminently taller than the rest in the circular line, and making a part of it like portals, not only to shape the entrance, but to hallow those that entered; it appearing, by many monuments, that the Druids attributed great virtue to these angular passages between rocks.
ANGULAR TRIAD. At the establishment of the Royal Arch degree, the angular triad bore a reference to the three great lights, which at that period were inter- preted to symbolize the light of the Gospel and the sublime Mystery of the Trinity.
ANNIYEBSAKIES, MASONIC. For Ancient Craft or Symbolic Masonry the festivals of St. John the Baptist, 24th of June, and St. John the Evangelist, 27th of De- cember.
ANNUITIES. Annuities are granted by many lodges to aged and distressed Freemasons, and also to the poor widows of deceased brethren : and this description of charity is certainly the most useful which any lodge can exercise. The silent gratitude of the recipient is a suffi- cient reward to the Order, but it also reaps this benefit, that the widow will encourage her sons, if she has any and God may bless and prosper them when grown up, to assist in giving similar assistance to other suffering breth ren and widows.
ANOMALY. Freemasonry is mysterious because ii is an admitted anouaaly in the history of the earth. Without territorial possessions — without any othe*
418 ANT
coercing power than that of morality and virtue, it has survived the wreck of mighty empires, and resisted the destroying hand of Time. Contrast the histt ry of Free- masonry with the history of the nations of the worM, and what is the result ? The Jews, God's favored people nto whose custody Masonry was first entrusted by it divine Author, where are they now ? — A race of wander ere, scattered over the face of the globe. And th stupendous and magnificent structure — the Temple — a once their glory and the wonder of the world, where is it now ? — Not one stone left upon another. Babylon, in her day the queen of nations, has fallen, never to rise again. Egypt, with her kings and philosophers ; classic Greece, and Imperial Rome, we now find but occupying their page in the history of the world. But Masonry at this moment shines throughout the world with as bright and undiminished a lustre as when first revealed by God to man. — Alexander Grant.
ANTEDILUVIANS. Having been forewarned by Adam of an universal deluge and conflagration, the ante- diluvians erected two pillars, one of brick and the other of stone, which they were of opinion would, one or the other or them, be proof against every attack either of fire or water. They engraved upon these pillars their discoveries and inventions, lest, in a series of ages, the knowledge of science itself should become extinct. Their precaution was not in vain ; for, to this day, the stone pillar is to be seen in Syria. — Josephus.
ANTI-MASONKY. Anti-masonry was converted into a watch- word about the year 1830, for political pur- poses, and to render the cry more imposing, and more successful, it was alleged that the Fraternity had mur- dereda man of the name of Morgan in 1826 for disclosing the secret. The excitement was kept up with unceasing pertinacity until it numbered nearly 100,000 free and intelligent electors of the State of New York; almost divided the vote of Pennsylvania. ; planted itself deeply in the soil of Massachusetts ; spread itself in others of the New England states in Ohio and elsewhere ; while in t, like the rod of Asron, it so far swallowed up
APO— APP. 419
both of the former parties, as to have obtained the con- trol of the state government. Nor was it of factitious partisans or disappointed men that this party was composed. It comprised among its members as great a portion of wealth and character — of talents and respect- ability— as any party that was ever formed of equal numbers in this or any other country. And where is this great anti-masonic party now ? The excitement contin- ued a few years, the hollowness of its principles became apparent, and it suddenly disappeared like a passing cloud, leaving behind it nothing but public shame and contempt.
APOSTACY. In the masonic system we are not only taught something of the history of the material world, but numerous facts pertaining to the moral, which are infinitely more important. Such is the apostacy of our first parents. This melancholy event is explicitly brought to view in so many words, and so strikingly represented, as seldom to fail of making deep and lasting impressions on the heart. The wretched, and destitute, anoLdeplora- ble situation of Adam, which was the fruit of his dis- obedience, are affectingly exhibited by the most lively masonic representations. — Town.
APOSTATE MASONS. It would be equally useless and vain to deny that we have occasionally found amongst ourselves individuals who have violated their solemn pledges, and sinned against the rites of masonic faith. However we may lament the consequences, we cannot impugn the fact. Still it does not detract from the merit of the institution, any more than the apostates, from Judas Iscariot downwards, who have failed to sully the intrinsic purity of the Christian religion.
APPEAL. As the Grand Lodge, when congregated, is a representation of every individual member of the Fraternity, it necessarily possesses a supreme superin- tending authority, and the power of finally deciding on every case which concerns the interest of the Craft Any lodge or brother, therefore, v ho may feel aggrieved by the decision of any other masonic authority or juris-
420 APP— ARC.
diction, may appeal to the Grand Lodge against such decision. The appeal must be made in writing, specify- ing the particular grievance complained of, and be trans- mitted to the Grand Secretary. A notice and copy ol the appeal must also be sent by the appellant to the party against whose decision the appeal is made. All appeals must be made in proper and decent language ; no others will be received. — Constitutions.
APPRENTICE, or first degree in the Order. An apprentice is respected in every lodge as u brother equally as much as an older member, and he has not, as might be supposed, any especially derogatory work to do. He learns masonic wisdom as far as it can be taught in the first degree, and he is, therefore, called an Apprentice. His clothing in the lodge is very little different from that of the others ; and the older brethren dare not place much value in their being able to wear an ornament or two more than he does. — Gadicke.
APRON. An apron is given to an operative Mason as a real necessary article ; to a Freemason only as a symbol. If the apron of an operative mason becomes dirty, this is mostly a sign of his praiseworthy industry ; but when the Freemason does not keep himself morally pure in all his actions, he stains the pure white of his apron to his own disgrace. A masonic apron is made of common white leather, and no brother is allowed to appear in a lodge without one ; it is intended to remind him of purity of mind and morals; white amongst the ancients being considered as an emblem of purity of soul. It is well known that formerly none but those of mature age were baptized, and they had to be dressed in white, to show that they had laid aside the lusts of the flesh. Those brethren who prove by their active benevolence and industry that they are worthy, receive promotion in the Order, and their aprons have proper decorations for each degree. — Gadicke.
ARCANA. In the secret arcana of our mysteries, a leries of valuable truths are preserved, which correspond with the teaching of Christianity, and point to the
ARC! 423
appearance of a Saviour in the world, to atone for human transgression, and carry us from earth to heaven. And being the conservator of such valuable mysteries, it is not surprising that in these days of superior piety and intelligence, it should so rapidly increase in public estimation, and be practised by the wise and good, not merely as a source of rational amusement, but as a means of promoting the blessings of morality and virtue amongst mankind, and augmenting a respect for the institution of religion.
ARCH OF HEAVEN. Job compares heaven to an arch supported by pillars. "The pillars of heaven trem- ble and are astonished at his reproof." Dr. Cutbush on this passage remarks — " The arch in this instance is allegorical, not only of heaven, but of the higher degree of Masonry, commonly called the Holy Royal Arch. The pillars which support the arch are emblematical ol Wisdom and Strength ; the former denoting the wisdom of the Supreme Architect, and the latter the stability of the universe." — Brewster.
ARCHITECTURE. Architecture is one of the first occupations in which man employed himself, and reflec- tion is the first step towards improving the mind. How astonishingly has the science of architecture improved and how honoured and how respected is an experienced architect ! The science commenced with miserable huts ; the next step was to erect altars on which to offer sacri- fices to the gods ; of their own imaginations regular dwellings followed next in rotation, after which, in rapid succession, came palaces for their princes, bridges over the most rapid streams to facilitate their commune with ^ach other ; pyramids and towers, proudly pointing to the heavens ; catacombs of nearly immeasurable dimensions for the interment of their dead, and the most gorgeous temples in honour of the Great Architect of heaven and earth. Thus we have adopted the title of Masons from one of the most ancient and most honourable occu- pations of mankind, in allusion to the antiquity of our Order. The working tools of an operative mason have become our symbols, because we can find no better ot
424 ARC— ARK.
more expressive ones. No occupation is so widely extended, and in close connexion with others, as that of a Mason ; and the various paths by which mankind strive to gain an entrance into the imperishable temple are innumerable. — Gadirkf..
ARCHIVES. Our traditions state that the hollow or the cylinder of these pillars (J. & B.) was used as archives of Masonry, and contained the sacred rolls which com- prised the history of the Hebrew nation, their civil and religious polity, the works of the prophetical and inspired writers, and the complete system of universal science. — Hemming.
ARITHMETIC. The science of arithmetic is indis pensable to the architect, and highly prized by him. It is a very ancient science, and was perfected in ancient Greece. Far be it from every Mason to give himself up to the superstitious practice of foretelling human events by the science of arithmetic ; but he knows that it is by the assistance of arithmetic that we have discovered the courses of the heavenly bodies ; that without its assist- ance we could not know when the moon would shine, when it would be ebb or flood, when summer or winter would c ommence. — Gadicke.
ARK AND ANCHOR. [See ANCHOR AND ARK.]
ARK. The ark of the covenant was a kind of chest or coffer, placed in the sanctum sanctorum, with the two tables of stone containing the decalogue, written with the finger of God, and containing the most sacred monument of the Jewish or any other religion. Along with the ark were deposited the rod of Aaron anH the pot of manna. The ark was a symbol of the divine presence and protection of the Israelites, and a pledge of the stability of the theocracy, so long as the people adhered to the articles of the covenant which the ark contained. This sacred chest was made of shittim wood, or the timber of a thorny shrub which grew in great profusion in many parts of the wilderness where the Israelites were directed to encamp, and gave its name to
ARll— ART. 425
a particular piace, which was hence called Abel Shittira It is supposed to have been the wood of the burning bush, which was once held in such veneration in our Royal Arch Chapters. This timber had a close grain and consequently was capable of receiving a beautifu polish, and, like the cedar, from its fragrance exemp from the attacks of worms and rottenness. Hence th ark endured, without losing any of its specific virtues from the time of its construction in the wilderness to th demolition of the Temple by Nebuchadnezzar, a perioi of nine hundred years. It was made by Aholiab and Bezaleel, under the direction of Moses, and according to the pattern which Jehovah had shown him on the Holy Mountain; and appropriated to such a sublime office, that all persons were forbidden to look upon or touch it under pain of death.
ARRANGEMENT. The appointment and arrange- ment of a masonic lodge-room in the 18th century were very different to our present practice. A long table was extended from one end of the room to the other, covered with a green cloth, on which were placed duplicates of the ornaments, furniture and jewels, intermixed with masonic glasses for refreshment. At one end of this table was placed the Master's pedestal, and at the other that of the Senior Warden, while about the middle of the table, in the south, the Junior Warden was placed, and the brethren sat round as at a common ordinary. When there was a candidate to be initiated, the candidate was paraded outside the whole; and, on such occasions, after he had been safely deposited at the north-east angle of the lodge, a very short explanation of the design of Freemasonry, or a brief portion of the lecture, was con- sidered sufficientsbefore the lodge was called from labour to refreshment. The song, the toast, the sentiment, went merrily round, and it was not until the brethren were tolerably satiated that the lodge was resumed, and the routine business transacted before closing.
ARTS, LIBERAL. The seven liberal arts and sciences are Grammar, Rhetoric, Arithmetic, Logic, Music, Ge-
42fl ASC-AST.
netry and Astronomy. They are beautifully explained hi the second, or Fellow-Craft's, degree.
ASCENT The ascent of a Fellowcraft, when Tie goes to receive his wages, is by a staircase of five divisions referring to the five noble orders of architecture, and the five external senses or organs which regulate the severa modes of that sensation which we derive from extern* objects. These are the several links of that powerful chain which binds us to the works of the creation, where- with we can have no connection, exclusive of those feel- ings which result from the delicate mechanism ot the ear, the eye, the smell, the palate, and the touch.
ASHLAR. [See ROUGH and PERFECT.]
ASTRE A. The Goddess of Justice dwelt with mot tals, but their vices and crimes, which she could not restrain, disgusted her so much, that she was compelled to return to heaven, from whence this charming goddess has never again revisited the earth to preside over the tribunals of mortals, for which reason she is generally represented as hoodwinked. Mythology informs us, that while she was a dweller on this earth, she was so satis fied with the justice of the spirit of Freemasonry, that she took it with her into her sanctuary, where she awaits the brethren of the Order, to bless them with all the pleasures she is able to communicate.
ASTRONOMY is an art by which we are taught to read the wonderful works of God in those sacred pages, the Celestial Hemisphere. While we are employed in the study of this science, we must perceive unparalleled instances of wisdom and goodness, and through the whole of the creation trace the glorious Author by his works.
ASTRONOMICAL. Some of our brethren are in- clined to think that our rites are astronomical, and explain the pillars of the lodge thus: Wisdom is the first Person of the Egyptian Trinity; Osiris, the sun, is the second person, being the Demiurgus, or supposed maker of the world, personating Strength , and Isis, the moon.
ASY— ATH. 427
the Beauty of Masonry, is the third. But as the first person is not revealed to the initiates of the minor degrees, the trinity for these grades is made up wholly of visible physical powers, adapted to the gross conceptions of the unenlightened; viz., Osiris, Isis, and Orus ; that is, the Sun, Moon, and Orion. The cabalistic Jews had some such fancies respecting their patriarchs. Abraham was likened to the sun, as rising in the east ; Isaac tc the moon, as receiving his light from him ; and Jacob to the Zodiac, from his sons constituting so many stars. Therefore, in " Barmidmar Raba," these appellations are given to them. Descending from the heavens to the firmament, the seven planets come after the orbs ; these correspond to the seven pre-eminent men until Jacob ; i. e., Adam, Seth, Noah, Shem, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob ; or, according to others, commencing with Jacob, Levy, Kohath, Amram, Aaron, David, and Solomon ; or Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Aaron, David, and Solo- mon. In either way this number is mystical ; for as the sun has three planets above his orb — Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, and three below it — the Moon, Venus, and Mer- cury, so Moses is compared to the sun from being in the centre of these last enumerations of patriarchs. There- fore, the sages say — " The face of Moses shone like the sun."
ASYLUM. The Asylum for Worthy, Aged and De- cayed Freemasons is a magnificent edifice at Croydon in Surrey. The charity was established by Dr. Crucefix, after sixteen years of herculean toil, such as few men but himself could have sustained. He did not live to see it in full operation, but breathed his last at the very time when the cope-stone was placed on the building. Since the death of Dr. Crucefix, it has been amalgamated with the Provident Annuity and Benevolent Association ol the Grand Lodge.
ATHEIST. One who denies the existence of a God, or, supreme intelligent being. The old charges declare that a Mason is obliged by his tenure to obey the moral law, and if he rightly understands the art, he will never be a stupid atheist. A belief in God is one of tho un-
ATT— AUG.
written landmarks of the Order. The very nature of the institution is set forth in its rituals as one of the tost pre- requisites to the ceremony of initiation.
ATTENDANCE. Every brother ought to belong to gome regular lodge, and should always appear therein properly clothed, truly subjecting himself to all its by-laws and the general regulations. He must attend all meetings, when duly summoned, unless he can offer to the Master and Wardens such plea of necessity for his absence as the said laws and regulations may admit. By the ancient rules and usages of Masonry, which are generally adopted among the by-laws of every lodge, no plea was judged sufficient to excuse any absentee, unless he could satisfy the lodge that he was detained by some extraordinary and unforeseen necessity.
ATTRIBUTES. The principal design of the laws of Masonry is to promote the harmony of its members, and by that means create a marked line of distinction be- tween Freemasonry and every other existing society. The attributes of the several degrees were therefore distinctly characterized, that no mistake might occur in their application to the business of the Craft. The orethren of the first degree were expected to distinguish themselves by honour and probity ; the Fellowcraft by diligence, assiduity, and a sincere love of scientific pursuits ; while the few who by their superior virtues attained to the third degree, recommended themselves to notice by their truth, fidelity, and experience in the details and landmarks of the Order.
AUDIT. A committee, consisting of the Grand Offi- cers of the year, and twenty-four Masters of lodges in London district, to be taken by rotation, shall meet between the quarterly communications in December and March, for the purpose of examining and auditing the Grand Treasurer's accounts for the preceding year, and making a report thereon to the Grand Lodge.— Consti- tutions.
AUGUSTAN STYLE. It was during the reign »,
AUT— BAB. 129
Augustus that the learned Vitruvius became the father jf true architecture by his admirable writings. This imperial patron first employed his Fellowcrafts in repair- ing or rebuilding all the public edifices, much neglected, if not injured, during the civil wars. In those golden days of Augustus, the patricians, following his example, built above a hundred marble palaces at Rome, fit for princes ; and every substantial citizen rebuilt their houses in marble ; all uniting in the same disposition of adorn- ing Rome ; whereby many lodges arose and flourished of the Free and Accepted Masons, so that Augustus, when dying, justly said, " I found Rome built of brick but I leave it built of marble ! " Hence it is, that in the remains of ancient Rome, those of his time, and of some following emperors, are the best patterns of true masonry extant, the epitome of old Grecian architecture, now commonly expressed by the Augustan style, in which are united wisdom, strength, and beauty. — Anderson.
AUTHORITY. [See ANCIENT CHARGES.]
AXE. In the construction of King Solomon's Tem- ple, every piece of it, whether timber, stone, or metal, was brought ready cut, framed, and polished, to Jerusa- lem ; so that no other tools we're wanted or heard than were necessary to join the several parts together. All the noise of axe, hammer, and saw, was confined to Leba- non, the quarries and the plains of Zeredatha, that nothing might be heard among the masons of Sion save harmony and peace. — Anderson.
B.
BABEL, in the Hebrew language means confusion. The name of a lofty tower, began to be built by the descendants of Noah, among whom Nimrod was a leader, on the plains of Shinar, about 120 years after the flood. It was de- stroyed by the special interposition of the Almighty.
BABYLON. One of the oldest and greatest cities of the ancient world, of which Niinrod was the founder. It was situated in the very heart of the old world. Under Nebu- chadnezzar Babylon reached the summit of her greatness.
430 BAB— BAD.
This king, in the year of the world 3394, destroyed the city of Jerusalem, including Solomon's temple, and car- ried into captivity nearly all the people of Judea, who were retained in Babylon for seventy years, and until Cyrus, King of Persia, issued a proclamation restoring them to liberty, with permission to rebuild their temple, under the superintendence of Zerubbabel, a prince of Judea ; Jeshua, the high-priest, and Haggai, the scribe.
BABYLONISH CAPTIVITY. The Jews had fallen under the displeasure of the Almighty by deviating from true masonic principles ; and hence they not only fell into great errors and corruptions, but were guilty of the most abominable sins ; wherefore Jehovah, in his wrath, denounced heavy judgments against them by Jeremiah and other prophets, declaring that their fruitful laud should be spoiled, their city became desolate and an abomination, and themselves and their descendants feel the effects of his displeasure for the space of seventy years, which commenced in the fourth year of the reign of Jehoiachim, A. L. 3398. — Old Lectures.
BACK. It is a duty incumbent on every Free and Accepted Mason to support a brother's character in his absence equally as though he were present ; not to revile him behind his back, nor suffer it to be done by others without using every necessary attempt to prevent it.
BADGE. Johnson defines a badge as "a mark of cognizance worn to show the relation of the wearer to any person or thing." The badge of a Mason is his apron — an emblem of innocence and purity. It was originally a skin of plain white leather. In 1730 it was regulated in Grand Lodge that the Grand Officers should " wear white leather aprons with blue silk ; and that the Masters and Wardens of particular lodges may line their white leather aprons with white silk, and may hang their jewels at white ribbons about their necks." At present a Master Mason wears a lamb-skin apron with sky-blue lining and edging, one inch and a half deep, with a rosette on the fall or flap. No other colour or ornament is allowed, except to officers or past officers of lodges.
BAL— BAN. 431
wfio may have the emblems of their office in silver 01 white in the centre of their apron. The Masters am] Past iuasters of lodges wear, in lieu of, and in the place of, the three rosettes on the Master Mason's apron, perpendicular lines upon horizontal lines, thereby form- ing three several sets of two right angles, to be made of ribbon of the same colour as the edging of the apron. The Grand Stewards' aprons are distinguished by crim- son and silver, and other grand and provincial grand officers by purple and gold.
BALLOT. Ballotting frequently takes place in a Freemasons' lodge, more particularly in admitting a can- didate, which is never allowed to take place unless he has a majority of votes in his favour, according to the rules of the lodge ; some lodges requiring perfect una- nimity, others admitting the candidate when there are not more than three black balls against him. In exercising this privilege, every member ought to give his vote per- fectly free from any influence from either the officers of the lodge, or from personal or private motives : he ought, at all times to remember that this privilege is given fcc men who ought to think and act for themselves with this one sole object in view, viz., the credit, honour, and welfare of the Craft in general, and of his own lodge in particular. — Gadicke.
BANNERS. When the Israelites marched through the wilderness, we find that the twelve tribes had be- tween them four principal banners, or standards, every one of which had its particular motto ; and each standard had also a distinct sign described upon it. They en- camped round about the tabernacle, and on the east side were three tribes under the standard of Judah ; on the west were three tribes under the standard of Ephraim on the south were three tribes under the standard of Reuben ; and on the north were three tribes under the standard of Dan. The standard of Judah was a lion; that of Ephraim an ox; that of Reuben a man, and that of Dun an eagle; whence were formed the hieroglyphics of cherubim and seraphim, to represent the children of Israel. — Ashe.
432 BAR— BEA.
BARE FEET. Nakedness of feet was a sign of mourn- ing. God says to Ezekiel, " Make no mourning for the dead, and put on thy shoes upon thy feet," £c. It was likewise a mark of respect. Moses put off* his shoes to approach the burning bush ; the priests served in the Tabernacle with their feet naked, as they did afterwards n the Temple. The Talmudists teach that if they had but stepped with their feet upon a cloth, a skin, or even upon the foot of one of their companions, their service would have been unlawful.
BANQUET. After the closing of some lodges for initiations or festival, a banquet is held, that is to say, the brethren as«emble for recreation and refreshment at a supper. But if the brethren merely meet to eat and drink, then the appellation masonic banquet would not be appropriate. Eating, or, more properly speaking, drinking toasts, and earnest masonic discourses or appeals for charitable purposes to the brethren, are so blended together as to produce one beautiful and harmonious whole evening's amusement ; for this reason the officers of the lodge, at least the Worshipful Master, Wardens, and Master of the Ceremonies, or his substitute, must be present. The opening and closing of a masonic banquet, at which the brethren are clothed, is commonly regulated by a ritual for that purpose. — Gudlckc.
BEAUTY. The Freemason is a true admirer of afl the liberal arts and sciences, but he much more admires a beauty of his own, which stands as fast as the pillars oi the earth — is immovable and immortal. All our working tools are given to us to find out symmetry, proportion, and applicability. We are conducted by every step in our Order to order and harmony, the very being of beauty We do not crawl in loathsome caverns, but our places 01 meeting are beautiful halls. The outward tokens and clothing of our Order are composed of the most beauti- ful colours. We refuse neither silk nor metal in our jewels, we rejoice in the purity of the clothing of our Order; out more especially we endeavour to make the spirit of true beauty shine in our assemblies, and not to allow it to degenerate into a lifeless appearance. — Ga- dickc.
BEA— BEL. 433
BEAUTY AND BANDS. The app ication of beauty and bands to the science of Freemasonry was in much esteem with our brethren at the beginning of the present century; but at the reunion, being pronounced inconsist- ent with the general plan of the Order, it was expunged, and is now nearly forgotten, except by a few old Masons, who may, perhaps, recollect the illustration as an inci dental subject of remark amongst the Fraternity of tha period.
BEEHIVE. The beehive is an emblem of industry, and recommends the practice of that virtue to all created beings, from the highest seraph in heaven to the lowest reptile in the dust. It teaches us that as we came into the world rational and intelligent beings, so we should ever be industrious ones; never sitting down contented while our fellow-creatures around us are in want, when it is in our power to relieve them without inconvenience to ourselves.
BEHAVIOUR. A Mason should be always cautious in his words and carriage, that the most penetrating stranger may not be able to discover or find out what is not proper to be intimated ; and sometimes he should divert a discourse, and manage it prudently for the honour of the worshipful Fraternity.
BELIEF. The most prominent facts which Freema- sonry inculcates directly or by implication in its lectures are these : that there is a God ; th?-' V^e created man, and placed him in a state of perfect happiness in Paradise; that he forfeited this supreme felicity by disobedience to die divine commands at the suggestion of a serpent tempter; that, to alleviate his repentant contrition, a divine revelation was communicated to him, that in pro- cess of time a Saviour should appear in the world to atone for their sin, and place their posterity in a condi- tion of restoration to his favor ; that for the increasing wickedness of man, God sent a deluge to purge the earth of its corruptions; and when it was again repeopled. he renewed his gracious covenant with several of the patri- archs; delivered his people from Egypt; led them in th.3
434 BEN.
wilderness ; and in the Mosaic dispensation gave more cleai indications of the Messiah by a succession of prophets, extending throughout the entire theocracy and monarchy , that he instituted a tabernacle and temple worship, which contained the most indisputable types of the religion which the Messiah should reveal and promulgate ; and that when the appointed time arrived, God sent his only begotten Son to instruct them, who was born at Bethlehem, as the prophets had foretold, in the reign o* Herod, (who was not of the Jewish royal line, nor eveii a Jew,) of a pure virgin of the family of David.
BENAI. The Benai were setters, layers, or builders at the erection of King Solomon's Temple, being able and ingenious Fellowcrafts, who were distributed by Solomon into separate lodges, with a Master and Warden in each, that they might receive commands in a regular manner, take care of their tools and jewels, be paid every week, and be duly fed and clothed, that the work might proceed with harmony and order.
BENEFITS. The society expends thousands of pounds sterling every year in the relief of the virtuous distressed. Nor can the existence of these benefits be denied, for they are open and undisguised. The relief of widows and orphans, and of aged Masons in want; youth of both sexes educated and trained to a life of use- fulness and virtue ; the stream of charity disseminated through every class of wretchedness and misery, are indeed so evident, that none can doubt the benefits of the institution ; and therefore those who decry it are fighting against truth, and condemn by their writings what their conscience secretly approves.
BENEVOLENCE, FUND OF. The distribution and application of this charitable fund shall be monthly ; for which purpose a committee or lodge of Benevolence shall be holden on the last Wednesday of every month. This lodge shall consist of all the present and past Grand Officers, all actual Masters of lodges, and twelve Past Masters. The brother presiding shall be bound strictly to enforce all the regulations of the Craft respecting the
BET— BEZ. 435
distribution of this fund, and shall be satisfied, before any petition be read, that all the required formalities have been complied with. To every petition must be added a recommendation, signed in open lodge by the Master, Wardens, and a majority of the members then present, to which the petitioner does or did belong, or from some other contributing lodge, certifying that they have known him to have been in reputable, or at least tolerable, cir- cumstances, and that he has been not less than two years a subscribing member to a regular lodge.
BETRAYING. By a full and fair exposition of our great leading principles, we betray no masonic secrets ; these are safely locked up in the heart of every Mason, and are never to be imparted except in a constitutional manner. But our leading tenets, are no secrets. It is no secret that Masonry is of divine origin ; it is no secret that the system embraces and inculcates evangelical truth ; it is no secret that there is no duty enjoined nor a virtue required in the volume of inspiration, but wrhat is found in, and taught by, Speculative Freemasonry ; it is no secret that the appropriate name of God has been preserved in this institution in every country where Masonry existed, while the rest of the world was literally sunk in heathenism ; and above all, it is not, neither can it be, a secret, that a good Mason is, of necessity, truly and emphatically a Christian. — Town.
BEZALEEL. Bezaleel and Aholiab were not only the most skilful at the building of the Tabernacle, but the most zealous for the work. We are therefore not prepared to see a miracle in this particular ; but we are prepared to see something greater, which is, that God claims his own — vis his gift, as the wisdom which he had put into them — that we might call the ' natural" genius or talent whereby they had been enabled to acquire that master skill in arts which they were now required to exercise in his service. We believe that these endowments were given to them originally by God, and that the cir- cumstances of life which gave them the opportunity of making these acquirements in Egypt, were determined ay Him with a view to this ultimate employment in his
436 BIB— BLA.
service. We see that the services of other persons simi- larly qualified were required in the same manner, and on the same ground, although Bezaleei and Aholiab were the chief. — Kitto.
BIBLE. Amongst the great lights of Freemasonry the Holy Bible is the greatest. By it we are taught to rule and govern our faith. Without this sacred light we find no masonic altar. Without it no lodge is perfect; neither can any one be legally initiated into the Order unless he believes in the grand truths which are therein contained ; unless he supports and is supported by that blessed book. The square and the compasses stimulate us to investigate into the truths which are therein con- tained ; for truth, justice, and mercy, are best supported by true religion. By it -we are taught " In the beginning was the WORD." The sacred writings are a symbolical chain, by which we are all united in the bonds of brother- ly love and universal philanthropy, as John, the meek and lowly disciple of Jesus, says in his gospel. In this blessed book is to be found the true rule by which every real Christian will endeavour to regulate his conduct. — Gadicke.
BIGOTRY. There are some bigots in their opinions against Freemasonry. It is, they cry, a bad thing — an unlawful thing — a sinful thing. Why? — Because we detest it — abhor it ! To pity such, is no mean part oi Christian love, since, I am persuaded, that even in good hearts the first emotions respecting them were those of scorn and contempt. Of what use is it to reason with bigots, whether in religion, morals, or politics? — Turner
BLACK. Among the Athenians, black was the colou. of affliction, and white of innocence, joy, and purity. — The Arabs and blazonry give to black a signification evidently derived from traditions of initiation. It desig- nates among the Moors grief, despair, obscurity, and con- stancy. Black, in blazon named sable, signifies pn.dence, wisdom, and constancy in adversity and woe. Hence the mosaic work of a Masons' lodjie. — fttmMic (
BLA— BOA. 437
BLAZING STAR. The blazing star must not be con- sidered merely as the creature which heralded the appear- ance of T. G. A. O. T. U., but the expressive symbol of that Great Being himself, who is described by the mag nificent appellations of the Day Spring, or Rising Sun ; the Day Star; the Morning Star; and the Bright, or Blazing Star. This, then, is the supernal reference of the Blazing Star of Masonry, attached to a science which, like the religion it embodies, is universal, and applicable to all times and seasons, and to every people that ever did or ever will exist on our ephemeral globe of earth.
BLUE. This durable and beautiful color was adopted and worn by our ancient brethren of the three symbolic degrees as the peculiar characteristic of an institution which has stood the test of ages, and which is as much distinguished by the durability of its materials or prin- ciples, as by the beauty of its superstructure. It is an emblem of universal friendship and benevolence ; and instructs us, that in the mind of a Mason those virtues should be as expansive as the blue arch of heaven itself
BLUE MASONRY. The three first degrees are clothed in or ornamented with blue, from whence this .iame is derived. The following degrees have not the same uniformity in their outward appearance. Blue is the colour of truth or fidelity ; and it is a Remarkable fact that the brethren have ever remained true to the blue degrees, while the authenticity of the other degrees has often been disputed, and in many places altogether denied. Under the reign of William III. of England blue was adopted as the favourite colour of the Craft - GadicTce.
BOARD OF GENERAL PURPOSES. This boar consists of a president and twenty-four other members of which the Grand Master annually nominates the presi- dent and ten of the members, at the Quarterly Commu- nication in June ; and the Grand Lodge on the same day elects the other fourteen from among the actual masters and past masters of lodges ; and they, together with the 37
438 BOA— BON.
Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and the Grand Wardens of the year, constitute the board.
BOAZ. One of the rules of the Jewish Cabala is called Transposition, and is used by finding an appro- priate meaning to a word formed anagrammatically from any other word. Acting on this rule, Bro. Rosen berg, an eminent Jewish Mason, residing in Paris, thus improves the names of the two pillars : — " In the first degree the candidate receives in his preparation the elements of the sciences ; it remains for him to instruct or to fortify himself by means of the higher sciences. The word fortify in Hebrew is ZOAB. At the moment when the young neophite is about to receive the physical light he should prepare himself to receive the moral light. The word prepared in Hebrew is NIKAJ. This word is very important for him who proposes to follow the path of virtue."
BOND AND FREE. At the grand festival which Abraham gave at the weaning of his son Isaac, Sarah detected Ishmael, the son of Hagar the Egyptian bond- woman, in the act of teazing and perplexing her son. She therefore remonstrated with Abraham, saying, Cast out this bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bond- woman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.— E. A. P. Lecthre.
BOND-WOMAN. Sarah the wife of Abraham being about eighty years of age, and conceiving herself to be past child-bearing, endeavoured to procure a son whom she might adopt, in pursuance of the custom of those times, by giving to her husband, as her substitute, an Egyptian slave named Hagar. But when the bond ^oman found that she had conceived by Abraham, she conducted herself with such insolence to her mistress, that the patriarch was compelled to give her up to Sarah's jorrection ; and she exercised it so sharply that Hagar fled into the wilderness, and dwelt by a fountain oi water. She was, however, commanded by the Divinity to return, and for her comfort a predi ition was vouchsafed which promised to the son that she should bear, and to
BOO— BKA. 439
his posterity, this remarkable privilege — that his name should never be blotted out.
BOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS. This book contains the written landmarks, rules, regulations, ancient charges, and fundamental principles of the Order ; a detailed exposition of the duties of officers of Grand and Subordinate Lodges, and the rights and privileges of members. In all proces- sions when the Grand Master appears the Book of Consti- tutions is carried before him, guarded by the Tiler's sword.
BOOK OF THE LAW. The Book of the Law is always spread open upon the pedestal during lodge hours at some important passage of Scripture, during the continuance of the solemn ministrations of the lodge. In the first degree it is usually unfolded at Ruth iv. 7; in the second degree at Judges xxii. 6; and in the third at 1 Kings vii. 13, 14. These usages, however, it may be necessary to add, are arbitrary ; for we find at different periods during the last century that Genesis vxii. and xxviii. were indifferently used for the first degree ; 1 Kings vi. 7, and 2 Chron. iii. 17, for the second; and Amos x. 25, 26, and 2 Chron. vi. for the chird. In the United States, according to the instruc- tions contained in ' Chart, the Bible is opened in the first degree at Psalm cxxxiii. ; in the second at Araos vii., and in the third at Ecclesiastes xii.
BRAZEN SERPENT. The brazen serpent was an image of polished brass, in the form of one of those fiery serpents which were sent to chastise the murmuring Israelites in the wilderness, and whose bite caused violent heat, thirst, and inflammation. By Divine command, Moses made a serpent of brass or copper, and put it upon a pole ; and it came to pass that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass he lived. This brazen serpent was preserved as a monument of divine mercy, but in process of time became an instru- ment of idolatry ; for it being written in the law of Moses, whoever looketh upon it shall live, they fancied they might obtain blessings by its mediation, and therefore thought it worthy to be worshipped. But Hezekiab
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thought fit to take it quite away when he abolished other idolatry because in the time of his father they adored it as an idol ; and though pious people among them accounted it only as a memorial of a wonderful work, yet he judged it better to abolish it, though the memory of the miracle should happen to be lost, than suffer it to remain, and leave the Israelites in danger of committing idolatry hereafter with it. — Home.
BRAZEN PILLARS. The two pillars on the Tracing board are the representations of those which stood at the entrance of the porch of King Solomon's Temple, emblems of strength and stability. They are particularly described in Scripture, and were considered of such importance as to be put for the Temple itself when its destruction was threatened by the Almighty. They were composed of cast brass and were manufactured in the clay ground between Succoth and Zeredatha, along with the holy vessels for the temple worship. They were made hollow for the purpose of serving as archives of Masonry, and to hold the constitutional records.
BREADTH. The breadth of the lodge is said to be between the north and the south, for the purpose of demonstrating the universality of Masonry.
BREAST. A Mason's breast should be a safe and sacred repository for all your just and lawful secrets. A brother's secrets, delivered to me as such, I would keep as my own, as to betray that trust might be doing him the greatest injury he could sustain in this mortal life ; nay, it would be like the villany of an assassin who lurks in dark ness to stab his adversary when unarmed and least prepared to meet an enemy. — Old Lectures.
BREAST-PLATE. The breast-plate of the high uriest was a square of nine inches, made of the same hiaterial as the ephod, and set with twelve precious stones, three in each row, on which were also engraved the names of the twelve tribes. The colours of the banners were identified by these stones, each tribe bear- ing the same colour as the precious stone by which it was represented in the breast-plat**
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BRIGHT MASON. If any brothers doubt whether it be really necessary that their masonic teaching should be reduced to practice; if they doubt whether they ought to be peculiarly cautious in their words and actions; or whether, as Masons, they ought to possess a listening ear, a silent tongue, and a faithful heart ; they cannot be bright Masons, for the complicated system of Freemasonry is not to be received or rejected as may sui
their pleasure or convenience.
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BROACHED THURNEL. This was the name of one of the original immoveable jewels, and was used for the E. A. P. to learn to work upon. It was subsequently called the Brute Stone, or rough Ashlar.
BROTHER. In the lodge, Masons always call each other brother; and the poorest among them, even the serving brethren, dare not address them by any other title, although they may fill the highest offices in the state, or even be monarchs. Out of the lodge, in the presence of strangers, the word brother may be dropped ; but when a brother meets a brother, even out of the lodge, and no other person is present, then the title of brother must not be omitted. It must be much more agreeable to every brother to be called by that endearing name than to be addressed by the title of your excellency or Mr., as well in the lodge as out of it when no strangers are present. No one hath a brother except he be a bro- ther himself. — Gadicke.
BROTHERLY LOVE. This can be manifested in innumerable opportunities not only in the Lodge but also out of it. It is acknowledged by the nearly imper- ceptible pressure of the hand as much as by the vindica- tion of an innocently accused absent Brother from the throne. It is an essential element to bind the Brethren unto each other ; we have pledged ourselves to exercise it, and it is one of the greatest duties of a Free and Ac- cepted Mason to deny it unto no man, more especially to a Brother M&son. To exercise brotherly 1 i»ve, or to feel deeply interested in the welfare of others is a source of the greatest happiness in every situation in life. The king upon hi* throne would find his sit.uat
442 BUI— BUL.
able if his subjects showed their regard unto him through fear alone and not through love, and so would those also who have a superabundance of worldly possessions. He who does not find his heart warmed with love toward? all mankind should never strive to be made a Freemason for he cannot exercise brotherly love. — Gadicke.
BUILDER SMITTEN. It is not to be presumed that we are a set of men professing religious principle contrary to the revelations and doctrines of the Son of God. reverencing a Deity by the denomination of the God of Nature, and denying that mediation which is graciously offered to all true believers. The members of our Society at this day, in the third stage of Masonry con- fess themselves to be Christians, " The veil of the temple is rent, the builder is smitten, and we are raised from the tomb of transgression." — Hutchinson..
BUILDING. It scarcely need to be intimated that operative Masonry was the sole object of the earliest builders ; for the scientifical and moral refinements that grew from the profession, and are now implied under the term Freemasonry, could not have taken root until the art and the artists, as well as the institutions of civil society had attained some degree of maturity. — Anderson.
BUL. The compounds of this divine name Bel, are of great variety. Bel-us was used by the Chaldeans ; and the deity was known amongst the ancient Celtae by the name of Bel or Belenus, which title, by modern authors, is identified with Apollo. The primitive name of Britain was Vel-ynys, the island of Bel ; and the fires lighted up on May-day were in honour of this deity, and called Bel's fire. The inhabitants made use of a word, known only to themselves, to express the unutterable name of the Deity, of which the letters 0. I. W. were a sacred sym- bol. In this they resembled the Jews, who always said Adonai, when the name of Jehovah occurred. Baal was the most ancient god of the Canaanites, and was referred to the sun. Manasseh raised altars to this deity, and worshipped him in all the pomp of heathen superstition; and when these altars were destroyed by Josiah, tha worship of Baal was identified with that of the Sun.
BURIAL PLACE. -TIME AND THE VIRGIN.
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BURIAL PLACE. The burial place of a Master Mason is under the Holy of Holies, with the following legend delineated on the monument: — A virgin weeping over a broken column, with a book open before her ; in her right hand a sprig of cassia, in her left an urn ; Time standing behind her, with his hands enfolded in the ring- lets of her hair. The weeping virgin denotes the unfin ished state of the temple : the broken column that one of the principal supporters of Masonry (H. A. B.) had fallen ; the open book implies that his memory is recorded in every Mason's heart; the sprig of cassia refers to the discovery of his remains; the urn shews that his ashes have been carefully collected, and Time standing behind her implies that time, patience, and perseverance will accomplish all things.
BURIED TREASURES. We have a tradition that King Solomon concealed certain treasures beneath the foundation of the temple, which were found when they were opened to build the second temple. It was com- mon in ancient times to secrete treasures in such vaults and caverns.
BY-LAWS. Every lodge has the power of framing by-laws for its own government, provided they are not contrary to or inconsistent with the general regulations of the Grand Lodge. The by-laws must therefore be submitted to the approbation of the Grand Master, or the Provincial .Grand Master; and when approved, a fair copy must be sent to the .Grand Secretary, and also to the Provincial Grand Master ; and when any material alteration shall be made, such alteration must in like manner be submitted. The by-laws of the Lodge shall be delivered to the master o'n the day of his install atioi , when he shall solemnly pledge himself to observe ami enforce them during his mastership. Every brother shall also sign them when he becomes a member ot the Lodge, as a declaration of his submission to them. — Constitu- tions.
CABALA. This was amongst the ancient Jews a mystical philosophy, inasmuch as they professed to pos- sess cabalistical secrets from the earliest ages, even froic
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the days of Adam. There was also a philosophical cabala which had its origin in Egypt. Modern cabalists have introduced many things into this so called science, and have divided it into symbolical and real cabala. In the symbolical cabala the secrets of numbers is taught, and the real cabala is subdivided into theoretical and practi- cal. In the theoretical the sacred writings are explained by a host of traditions, arid the practical is, that caba,a which has found the most followers as it professes to teach the art of performing miracles. As spiritual errors are frequently the subject of masonic lectures, we could not pass the word cabala without notice. — Gadicke.
CABLE-TOW. According to the ancient laws of Freemasonry, every Brother must attend his Lodge if he is within the length of his cable-tow. The length of an E. A. P. cable-tow is three English miles, or 15,840 feet. — Gadicke.
CALENDAR. The first intimation we have of this periodical was in the year 1775, when the Grand Secre- tary informed the Grand Lodge that a Freemason's calen- dar for 1775 and 1776 had been published by the Com- pany of Stationers without the sanction of the society, and that he apprehended a publication of that kind, properly authorized, would be acceptable to the frater- nity, and might be beneficial to the charity. He moved that a Freemason's calendar, under sanction of the Grand Lodge, be published in opposition to that pub- lished by the Stationer's Company, and that the profits of such publication be appropriated to the general fund of the society. This motion being seconded, th^ question was put, and it passed in the affirmative. This calendar was continued till after the union in 1813, but the form in which it was printed being at length found incon- venient, H. R. H. the Duke of Sussex G. M. directed that in future it should be published in the form of a pocket book, and it continues to be published in that form to the present day.
CAMP OF ISRAEL. For so large a multitude of people, and for so numerous an army, it was needful that all the necessary articles of life should be prepared
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beforehand, or be found ready to purchase. In these respects nothing was wanting to the Israelites. Their bread came down to them from heaven, and they had besides an abundance of every thing that could contribute to magnificence. If we may credit Josephus, they had amongst them public markets and a variety of shops (Ant. 1. iii. c. 12, sec. 5.) The tabernacle being erected it was placed in the midst of the camp, each of the three tribes stretching themselves on the wings, and leaving between them a sufficient space to pass. It was, says Josephus, like a well appointed market, where every thing was ready for sale in due order, and all sorts of artificers kept their shops, so that the camp inight be considered a moveable city. — Adam Clarke.
CANDIDATE. A candidate for initiation into Free- masonry, is a person who has been proposed by a Brother and whose name is written upon the tables of the Lodge, that the brethren may be reminded to make the necessary enquiries into his moral and social character ; for which purpose four weeks is generally allowed. — Gadicke.
CANDLES. The three great luminaries, are not to be confounded with the three great lights. They are merely candles or torches, or they may be called pillars with torches. — Gadicke.
CANDLESTICK. The candlestick in the Taber- nacle was manufactured by Bezaleel and Aholiab of beaten gold. It had an upright shaft which stood upon a broad foundation, that its support might be firm and unmoveable, without danger of being overthrown during the process of trimming and cleaning its lamps, which were seven in number, one in the centre, and three on each side, on so many branches that were not equal iu length, the outer branches being elongated, that the lights might be all of the same height. The body of the shaft had four bowls, and as many knobs and flowers. Some think that the seven branches symbolised the seven planets, the seven days of the week, and the seven ages of man j but in truth the Christian church is the candlestick, and the light is Christ. The seven lamps are emblems of the gift of the Spirit ; the knobs and
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flowers, the graces and ornaments of a Christian, life As the candlestick gave light to the tabernacle, so we must remain in darkness unless Christ shall enligh ten his chur(h. Simeon therefore pronounced it to be "a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Israel."
CANOPY. In the masonic processions of the Con tinent, the Grand Master walks under a gorgeous canopy of blue, purple, and crimson silk, with gold fringes and tassels, borne upon staves painted purple and ornamented with gold, by eight of the oldest Master Masons present ; and the masters of private lodges walk under canopies of light blue silk with silver tassels and fringes, borne by four members of their own respective companies. The canopies are in the form of an oblong square, and are in length six feet, in breadth and height three feet, having a semicircular covering. The framework should be of cedar, and the silken covering ought to hang down two feet on each side.
CAPITULAE DEGKEES. The appellation, in France, of certain degrees of the Scottish rite, from the fourth to the eighteenth, inclusive, and which the French rite has contracted to four. These degrees are divided into four series, or independent branches.
CAPTIOUSNESS. Cautiousness is apt to overset the harmony of conversation. And it is so, not only because it often produces misbecoming and provoking expressions and behaviour in a part of the company, but because it is a tacit accusation and a reproach for some- thing ill taken from those we are displeased with. Such an intimation or even suspicion must always be uneas\ to society ; and as one angry person is sufficient to dis- compose a whole company, for the generali ty , all mutua happiness cease therein on any such jarring. This failing therefore, should be guarded against with the same care, as either boisterous rusticity and insinuated contempt, or ill-natured disposition to censure. — Martin Clare.
CAPTIVITY. The Jews having offended the Most High, weie delivered over to the Chaldeans to be chas- tisfii , and Nebuchadnezzar let loose his full vengeance
DESTRUCTION OF THE TEMPLE. 38 JEWISH CAPTIVITY.
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upon them. He ravaged the whole country ; and the holy city of God, after a protracted siege, during which many traitors went over to. the enemy, was abandoned to pillage. They burned the temple, broke down the walls of the city, set fire unto her towers, and carried away the consecrated vessels of gold and silver, the brazen sea and altar, and the two pillars of Jachin and Boaz, which stood at the entrance of the porch. All the princes, the nobility, and every person of consequence, according to the prediction of Jeremiah, were removed into the land of Chaldea ; but Nebuzaradan, the chief of Nebuchad- nezzar's officers, left behind many families of the lower classes to cultivate the vineyards, and other servile pur- poses, with strict injunctions to transfer the fruits thereof to Babylon in their season, as luxuries for the tables of the nobility.
CARDINAL POINTS. The cardinal points of the compass have a peculiar signification amongst us, and particularly the east, west, and south. The east is a place of light, and there stands the W. M., a pillar of Wisdom, as a representation of the rising sun ; and as that luminary opens the glorious day to light mankind to their labours, so the W. M. occupies this station to open lodge, and to employ and instruct the brethren in Mason- ry. The south is a station of another important officer, the pillar of Beauty, who is placed in that quarter that he may be prepared to mark the sun at its meridian, to call the workmen from labour, and to recruit their strength by necessary refreshment and rest, that their toils may be resumed with renewed vigour and alacrity, without which neither pleasure nor profit can mutually result. In the west stands the pillar of Strength, to mark the setting sun, and close the labours of the day by command of the presiding officer; because the declin- ing luminary warns mankind of the necessity of repose, else our nature would sink under the effects of incessant toil, unrelieved by rest and recreation.
CARDINAL VIRTUES. They are Fortitude, by which we are taught to resist temptation ; Prudence, by which we are instructed to regulate our conduct by the dictates of Reason ; Temperance, by which we learn to govern the pas- sions ; Justice, which constitutes the cement of civil society.
452 CAS— CAU.
CASSIA. The cassia was anciently a symbol of honour, triumph, life, and resurrection, according to Pierius, who published his Hieroglyphica in 1575, which would be quite sufficient to authorize its introduction into our symbolical legend. When the Master Mason exclaims, therefore, " My name is Cassia," it is equiva- lent to saying, " I have been in the grave ; I have triumphed over it by raising from the dead ; and being regenerated in the process, have a claim to life (ever lasting)."
CATECHISM. This is the most important document of Freemasonry. The catechism was formerly only com- municated by conference from one lodge to another, or from one brother to another ; and this is the reason why we have so many different forms of the catechism, although in spirit there is no material difference in any of them. As a religious catechism contains a summary of all that is taught by that religion, so our catechism contains the essence of Freemasonry ; but it is not to be understood without the teacher taking great pains in instructing the student, nor without having previously been instructed in a lodge, and being able to reflect upon and remember the instructions there given. Every degree has its own catechismus ; and in many lodges it is custom- ary to explain part of it at every meeting, in order that the members may become intimately acquainted with it.
-Gadicke.
CATENARIAN ARCH. This constitutes the form of a Royal Arch Chapter, and is constructed on the following principles. It is a known truth that a semi- circular arch will not sustain its own weight, the crown crushing out the sides; it depends, therefore, on abut- ment for support. The only arch the bearing of which is true in all its points of the curve, is the catenarian arch. If a slack chain or rope be supported by two hooks, the curve it falls into is what is called the cate- narian curve ; and this inverted is the mechanical arch of the same name. Such an arch, truly constructed, will stand independent of any collateral aid whatever. — Noorthouek.
CAUTION. The Entered Apprentice, at his initiation
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Li the United States, is presented with a new name, which is Caution, to teach him that as he is then imper- fectly instructed in the mysteries of Masonry, he ought to be cautious overall his words and actions, that nothing may escape him which may tend to afford information to the opponents of Masonry This is one of the triad of duties recommended in the first degree.
CAUTIOUS SECRECY. The cautious secrecy of the Craft in early ages was used to prevent the great prin- ciples of science, by which their reputation was secured and maintained, from being publicly known. Even the inferior workmen were unacquainted with the secret and refined mechanism which cemented and imparted the treasure of wisdom. They were profoundly ignorant of the wisdom which planned, the beauty which designed, and knew only the strength and labour which executed the work. The doctrine of the pressure and counter- pressure of complicated arches, was a mystery which they never attempted to penetrate. They were blind instruments in the hands of intelligent Master Masons, and completed the most sublime undertakings by the effect of mere mechanical skill and physical power, without being able to comprehend the secret which pro- duced them ; without understanding the nice adjustment of the members of a building to each other, so necessary to accomplish a striking and permanent effect ; or without being able to enter into the science exhibited in the complicated details which were necessary to form a harmonious and proportionate whole.
CAVE. Solomon had a deep cave dug underneath the Sanctum Sanctorum of the Temple, with many intrica- cies, over which he fixed a stone, wherein he put the ark and cherubim. They say they did this because, by the Holy Spirit foreseeing that that house would be destroy- ed, he therefore made a secret place where the ark might be kept, so that its sanctity might not be profaned by heathen han is ; and tWy are of opinion that subsequently Jos ah secreted therein the ark. They prove it firstly from 1 Kings vi. 9 : — " And the oracle within the house [>=n] he prepared to place there the ark," where, by prepare, they understand it to mean a preparation for the
4o4 CED— CEN.
future ; as we see, when previously treating of the ark and cherubim, it says, " And they were there until this day," a term in the Holy Scriptures to signify "to all eternity," as, " And no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day," that is, never. — Manasseh Ben Israel.
CEDAR. The cedar grows on the most elevated part of Lebanon, is taller than the pine, and so thick that five men together could scarcely fathom one. It shoots out its branches at ten or twelve feet from the ground ; they are large and distant from each other, and are perpetu- ally green. The cedar distils a kind of gum to which different effects are attributed. The wood is of a brown color, very solid, and incorruptible if preserved from wet. It bears a small apple like to that of the pine.— Adam Clarke.
CEMENT. The lodge is strongly cemented with love and friendship, and every brother is duly taught secrecy and prudence, morality and good fellowship.
CENSER. The censer is a representation of the altar of incense which was made of the acacia covered with beaten gold. In form it was a double cube, and had a crown or rim like the table of shewbread, running round its upper surface. It was of small dimensions, being only one foot six inches square, and three feet high, with elevations at each corner called horns. This altar or censer was placed close to the veil which separated the holy place ; that the incense might penetrate into the latter ; and for this reason perhaps it was that St. Paul attributes it to the innermost room. It was an emblem or type of Christ, through whom we offer the incense of our prayers. The acacia and gold of which the altar was composed, referred to his human and divine nature ; the crown to his regal dignity ; and the horns to his power. As no incense could be offered but upon this altar, so no prayers will be accepted but those offered through Jesus Christ. The incense was offered every morning and evening, and our prayers ought to ascend to the throne of grace at the same periods.
CENTENARY. The revolution of a hundred years
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ft is usual for lodges which have been established for that ong period to celebrate the anniversary by a com- memorative festival.
CENTRAL POINT. Masonry is truly the sister of religion ; for she boasts her efficacy in all its native influence, and is continually the assistant promoter of like principles and of like actions. The central point of all her innumerable lines, squares and circles, is the love o* God. And upon this central point she builds her faith from it she derives her hope of glory here and hereafter, and by it she squares her conduct in strict justice and universal charity. The central point of all true Christi- anity and of all true Masonry is the love of God. " Ma- sonry is dedicated only to the Gospel."
CENTRAL STAR. The human body of Jesus Christ is the Ark of the Christian Covenant, over which the Shekinah appeared in the cave at Bethlehem, in the form of a supernatural Star in the East, which hence is placed in the centre of our lodges.
CENTRE. The labors of a Freemason must pene- trate to the centre of the earth, and his spirit inquire into all the operations of nature, and either be able satis- factorily to explain or humbly admire them. — Gadicke.
CEREMONIAL. On our initiation we cannot fail to be struck with the ceremonials, and must think that there is more conveyed by them than appears to the vul- gar eye. A due attention to the matter will convince us that our first impressions were just ; and by researches to discover their implications, a competent degree of knowledge may be acquired touching the origin of Ma- sonry, the reasons which support its several institutions, the meaning and import of its various symbols, together with the progress of the profession. — Hutchinson.
CERTIFICATE. Every Brother who travels, and who wishes to visit the lodges in the cities he comes to, must not only provide himself with masonic clothing but with a certificate. These certificates are granted by the Grand Lodge of England to every one who has been
456 CER— CHA.
regularly initiated, and contain an account of when and where the bearer was made, and a recommendation to all lodges to admit him to their labours. They are sealed with the seal of the Grand Lodge, and are signed by the Grand Secretary, and the brother to whom they belong. — GadicTce.
CEREMONIES. If a person wishes to become a can didate for Masonry, he should make up his mind to watch the progress of all the ceremonies through which he may pass, with attention, and search into their pro- priety, tneir origin, and their symbolical reference. He may be quite sure that men of sense and standing in the world — men whose reputation for wisdom and common prudence is of some value, would not subject him to any test which might cast an imputation upon themselves.
CHAIN. All the Freemasons upon the surface of the earth form one chain, every member is a link of it, and should ever strive with the true hand of a brother to strengthen it. No wavering doubt should break it. None should be shut out from it, as is taught in every lodge. What an encouraging thought it is for the newly initia- ted brother to find himself at once surrounded with the light arising from this great chain. This chain can be no fetter to him, for the hands of brethren prove the contrary. — GadicJce.
CHALK. Chalk, charcoal and clay, have ever been esteemed the emblems of freedom, fervency, and zeal, because nothing is more free for the use of man than chalk, which seldom touches but leaves its trace behind ; nothing more fervent than charcoal, for when well lighted no metal is able to resist its force ; nothing is more zeal- ous than clay, our mother earth, who will open her arms to receive us when forsaken by all our friends.
CHAMBER. It is only in solitude that we can deeply reflect upon our present or future undertakings, and blackness, darkness, or solitariness, is ever a symbol of death. A man who has undertaken a thing after mature reflection seldom turns back. No symbol of death will terrify him, and the words of the sacred writings. ''In
CHA. 457
the beginning was the light," charm him on tc seek the ight he has lost. — Gadicke.
CHAPEL. In every convenient place the architect of a lodge should contrive secret cryptae or closets. They »re of indispensable utility, but in practice are not suffi- ciently attended to in this country. On the continen they are numerous, and are dignified with the name of chapels. They ought to be seven in number ; 1, a room for visitors ; 2, the Tyler's room ; added to which there ought to be 3, a vestry where the ornaments, furniture., jewels and other regalia are deposited. This is called the Treasury or Tyler's conclave, because these things are under his especial charge, and a communication is generally made to this apartment from the Tyler's room. There ought to be 4, a chapel for prepara- tions, hung with black, and having only one small lamp placed high up near the ceiling; 5, a chapel for the dead furnished with a table, on which are a lamp, and emblems of mortality ; 6, the master's conclave, where the records, the warrant, the minutes and every written document are kept. To this room the W. M. retires when the lodge is called from labour to refreshment, and at other times when his presence in the lodge is not essential ; and here he examines the visitors, for which purpose a communication is formed between his conclave and the visitor's chapel. It is furnished with blue, and here he transacts the lodge business with his secretary. The Ark of the Covenant is also deposited in this apartment. None of these closets should exceed 12 feet square, and may be of smaller dimensions according to circumstances. In the middle of the hall there should be 7, a moveable trap-door in the floor, 7 feet long and 3 feet in depth, the use of which is known to none but perfect Masons, who have passed through all the sym- bolical degrees.
CHAPTER. Upon each of the pillars of King Solo- mon's temple was placed a chapiter or symbolical orna- ment, five cubits in height, composed of network, chains, pomegranates, and lily work or opening flowers cast in the same material of which the pillars were formed. Like tb
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tial to the well-being of the structure. Thus, at the time when the temple was abandoned by Jehovah he is represented as standing magnificently upon the altar, *ind commanding the angel of destruction to strike the heads or chapiters of these two pillars, and the total ruin not only of the temple but of Jerusalem and the entire system of Jewish polity should ensue (Amos, ix. 1). As their destruction was thus comprehensive and significant, so was their erection symbolical of the magnitude and splendour of the Jewish nation under Solomon. And this reference was embodied in their names.
CHAPLAIN. The Grand Chaplain is appointed by the Grand Master on the day of his installation. He should attend all the quarterly communications and other meetings of the Grand Lodge, and there offer up solemn prayer suitable to the occasion, as established by the usages of the fraternity. — Constitutions.
CHAPTER. A convocation of Royal Arch Masons is called a chapter. The presiding officers are a king, a priest, and a prophet, who are representatives of Zerub- babel, Jeshua, and Haggai. These officers are styled either by the founders' names as above, or as first, second, and third Principals. All chapters are under the juris- diction of the Supreme Grand Chapter in London.
CHARACTER. The character of a man that would become a Mason must undergo the strictest scrutiny. He must be a man of strict morality ; he must be humane, benevolent, and charitable to his fellow-crea- tures ; he must be no gambler, tippler, or profane swearer ; he must be no railer against the religion of Christ, or the professors thereof; he must be a lover of decency and order ; and he must be strictly honest, industrious, and upright in all his conduct ; for such as delight in the practice of vice are a disgrace to civil society, and are seldom reformed by the most excellent institutions Th ;y retain their vices unchangeable as the skin of the Ethiopian or the spots of the leopard. Such indeed wo/J never apply for admission into our benign institu- tion, were they acquainted with her solemn principles, as ^ not lovers of decency and order. — Powers.
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CHARGES, ANCIENT. The Charges of a Freemason, as they were collected from the old records of the Frater- nity, under the superintendence of Bro. Jas. Anderson, and the learned committee who acted with him, and given to the Craft, through the press, in 1723, by order of the Grand Lodge of England, in 1721, have been, wherever promul- gated, accepted, and acknowledged as containing the essence of the fundamental principles, and law of Freema- sonry. In them are to be found those undisputed, time- honored principles which constitute the written Land- marks of our Order. They are divided into six general heads, viz : 1. Of God and Religion ; 2. Of the Civil Magistrates, supreme and subordinate ; 3. Of Lodges ; 4. Of Masters, "Wardens, Fellows, and Appre ntices ; 5. Of the management of the Craft in working ; 6. Of behavior, which last is subdivided into six parts, detailing the several duties of Masons under all the different relations of life, as a subject of civil government, and as a man.
CHARITIES. Our general charities are the Schools for Boys and Girls, the Fund of Benevolence for Widows and Distressed Brethren, the Annuity Fund for Aged Brethren, and the Asylum for Worthy Aged and Decayed Freemasons and their Widows, and they are all amply supported. In the schools seventy boys and sixty-five girls are educated and clothed. The funded property of the Girls' School is about 16,OOOZ., and its income 1600/. a year, including 150/. annually from the Grand Lodge. The funded property of the Boys' School is not so much, it amounts only to S5.00/. and the annual income of about 1150/., including 150/. from the Grand Lodge. The funded property of the Royal Masonic Annuity Fund is 3500^., and the annual income including 400/. from the Grand Lodge, is 1300/. The number of annuitants at 20/. a year each is now thirty. The funded property of the Asylum is about 3450/., and its annual income from other sources 400£. The two latter charities are now united together. The sums annually voted by the Board of Be- nevolonce to distressed brethren and the widows of Masons amount to about 750/., and its funded property is 1 2,000/., and that of the Board of General Purposes about 6000/.
CHARITY. This is the brightest ornament of our
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masonic profession. Happy is the brother who hath sown in his heart the seeds of benevolence, the produce of which will be charity and love. He envieth not hia neighbour, he believeth not a tale when reported by a slanderer, he forgiveth the injuries of men, and blotteth them out from his recollection. Whoever would emulate the character of a good and worthy Mason ought ever to be ready to assist the needy as far as lies in his power ; and if, in the most pressing time of necessity, he does not withhold a liberal hand, the most heartfelt pleasure will reward his labours, and the produce of love and charity will most assuredly follow. — Old Lectures.
CHEQUERED. As the steps of man tread in the various and uncertain incidents of life, as our days are chequered with a strange contrariety of events, and our passage through this existence, though sometimes at- tended with prosperous circumstances, is often beset by a multitude of evils ; hence is the lodge furnished with mosaic work to remind us of the precariousness of our state on earth ; to day OUT feet tread in prosperity to morrow we totter on the uneven paths of weakness, temptation, and adversity. Whilst this emblem is before, us, we are instructed to boast of nothing, to have com* passion and give aid to those who are in ^ adversity, to walk uprightly and with humility ; for such is human existence, that there is no station in which pride can be stably founded ; all men, in birth and in the grave, are on the level. Whilst we tread on the mosaic work, let our ideas turn to the original which it copies ; and let every Mason act as the dictates of reason prompt him, to live in brotherly love. — Hutchinson.
CHERUBIM. There were four cherubims in the most holy place of Solomon's temple. Two lesser mado by Moses of massy gold, and two larger made by Solomon overlaid with gold. Those made by Mose^ were part of the mercy seat, and inseparable from it those of Solomon seem to have spread their wings over it, being added only for the greater ornament and glory of God's house. — Bisliop Patrick. See "S;gns and Symbols," Lect. i.
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CHIEF POINT. The chief point in Masonry is to endeavour to be happy ourselves, and communicate that happiness to others.
CHILDREN OF LIGHT. Remembering the wonders in the beginning, we, claiming the auspicious counte nance of heaven on our virtuous deeds, assume the figure of the sun and moon as emblematical of the great ligh of truth discovered to the first men, and thereby imply ing that as true Masons we stand redeemed from dark ness, and are become the sons of light, acknowledging in our profession our adoration of him who gave light unto his works. Let us then by our practice and con- duct in life, show that we carry our emblems worthily , and as the children of light, that we have turned our backs on works of darkness, obscurity and drunkenness, hatred and malice, Satan and his dominions ; preferring charity, benevolence, justice, temperance, chastity and brotherly love, as the acceptable service on which the Great Master of all, from his beatitude, looks down with approbation. — Hutchiiisoji.
CHISEL. The chisel, though a small instrument, is calculated to make a permanent impression on the hardest substance, and the mightiest structures are indebted to its aid. It morally demonstrates the advan- tages of discipline and education. The mind, like the diamond in its natural state, is unpolished ; but as the effects of the chisel on the external coat soon presents its latent beauties to the view, so education discovers the latent virtues of the mind, in order to display the summit of human knowledge, our duty to God and man.
CHOICE OF OFFICERS. This is a matter of great concern, for the officers of a lodge are not only bound to advance the welfare of their own particular lodge, but whatever may tend to the good of the Fraternity in general. Therefore no man ought to be put in such election, but such as by his own skill and merit is deemed worthy of performance, viz., he must be well acquainted with all the private and public rules and orders of the Craft ; he o ight to be strictly honest, naturally humane patient in injuries, discreet in conversation, grave in 30
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counsel, constant in amity, and above all, faithful ic secrecy. — Dcrmott.
CHRISTIANITY. Masonry is the excellency of Christianity, and every Mason is, if he is in reality a Mason, a true Christian ; or at least he is in reality truly religious according to his profession, whether he be Jew or Christian. — Inwood.
CIRCLE. The circle has ever been considered sym- bolical of the Deity ; for as a circle apj ears to ha>f; neither beginning nor end, it may be justly considered u type of God, without either beginning of days or en'Jr.iij of years. It also reminds us of a future state, wnete we hope to enjoy everlasting happiness and joy. — Oia Lectures.
CIRCLE AND PARALLEL LINES. In all regulai and well-formed lodges there is a certain point within a circle, round which it is said the genuine professors ol our science cannot err. This circle is bounded north and south by two perpendicular parallel lines. On the upper or eastern part of the periphery rests the Holy Bible, supporting Jacob's ladder extending to the heavens. The point is emblematic of the Omniscient and Omnipresent Deity, the circle represents his eternir) , and the two perpendicular parallel lines liis equal justice and mercy. It necessarily follows therefore that in tra- versing a masonic lodge, we must touch upon these two great parallels, as well as upon the volume of the sacred law; and whilst a Mason keeps himself thus circum- scribed, remembers his Creator, doe? justice and loves mercy, he may hope finally to arrive at that immortal centre whence all goodness emanates. — Hemming.
CIRCUMAMBULATION. The ancients made it constant practice to turn themselves round when they worshipped the gods ; and Pythagoras seems to recom- mend it in his symbols. By this circular movement says Plutarch, some imagine that he intended to imitate the motion of the earth ; but I am rather of opinion, that the precept is grounded on another notion, that as all temples are built fronting the east, the people at their entrance turned their bucks to the suu ; and cwnsequfnily
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in order to dace the sun, they were obliged to make & halt-turn to the right, arid then in order to place them- selves before the Deity, they completed the round L. ottering up their prayer.
CLANDESTINE LODGES. Some years ago there were a number of those so called lodges, but there are none at present. Clandestine lodges are such as have been formed by avaricious Freemasons, who take money from those people who can have no idea of the difference between warranted and unwarranted lodges. They were not warranted by any Grand Lodge, and endeavoured as much as possible to conceal their existence from the Grand Lodges ; their founders formed a ritual from their memories, and by this ritual they made so called Free- masons, but as they could not legitimize themselves for want of certificates and proper information, they were unable to gain admission into any worthy and warranted lodge. Since the lodges have been formed into unions, working under one Grand Lodge, unwarranted lodges have less chance of existing than formerly. A lodge which is held without the knowledge of the magistrates or police of the place may be considered as an unwar- ranted lodge. — Gadicke.
CLASSES. Ancient masonic tradition informs us that the speculative and operative Masons who were assembled at the building of the temple, were arranged in nine classes, under their respective Grand Masters; viz. 30,000 Entered Apprentices, under their Grand Master Adoniram; 80,000 Fellowcrafts, under Hiram Abift'; 2000 Mark Men, under Stolkyn ; 1000 Master Masons, under Mohabin ; GOO Mark Masters, under Ghiblim; 21 Architects, under Joabert ; 12 Grand Architects, under Adoniram ; 4-3 Excellent Masons, under Hiram Abiff; 9 Super-excellent Masons, under Tito Zadok ; besidea the Ish Sabbal or labourers.
CLOSING. When it is proper time to close the lodge it is always high midnight, and the brethren then go peaceably home, remembering that the high midnight of life may overtake them without a moment's warning.
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CLOTHING. It was ordered by the regulations agreed by the Grand Lodge, March 17th, 1771, that none but the Grand Master, his Deputy and Wai dens, who were the only grand officers then in existence, shall wear their jewels in gold pendant to blue ribbons about their necks, and white leather aprons with blue silk. Masters and Wardens of particular lodges may line their white leather aprons with white silk, and many hang their jewels by white ribbons about their necks. Master Ma- sons now are clothed in white, sky-blue, and silver ; Grand and Provincial Grand Stewards in white, crimson and silver ; and all other Grand and Provincial Grand Officers in white, purple and gold.
CLOUDY PILLAR. When the Israelites were de- livered from the Bondage of Egypt, and had arrived on the borders of the Red Sea, the Egyptians thought thej were so completely ensnared that their escape was im possible. With inaccessible mountains on each side, the sea in front, and the Egyptian army behind, they appeared to be completely hemmed in. And why did Moses place them in this situation ? The road to Palestine was open by the Isthmus ; but he declined escaping by that avenue, and led the people southward, and placed thus at the apparent mercy of their enemies. The truth is, Moses had no option in the matter ; he followed the direction of the Cloudy Pillar, because he had full con- fidence that it would conduct him right.
COCHLEUS. A staircase contrived as a screw in the inner wall of the temple.
COERCION. The rules of the Fraternity imperatively declare that no person can be admitted a Mason except by his own free-will and accord. That the candidate is unbiased by the improper solicitation of friends, and uninfluenced by mercenary motives ; that he is prompted to solicit the privileges of Freemasonry by a favorable opinion of the institution, and a desire of knowledge; and that he will cheerfully conform to all the ancient usages and customs of the Fraternity. Coercion is. therefore, not tolerated, but is an offense against Ma- sonry.
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COFFIN. In all the ancient mysteries, before an aspirant could claim to participate in the higher secrets of the institution, he was placed within the pastes, or coffin, or in other words was subjected to a solitary confinement for a prescribed period of time, that he might reflect seriously, in seclusion and darkness, on what he was about to undertake, and be reduced to a proper state Oi mind for the reception of great and important truths, by a course of fasting and mortification. This was the sym- bolical death of the mysteries, and his deliverance from confinement was the act of regeneration, or being born again ; or as it was also termed, being raised from the dead.
COLLAR. An ornament worn about the neck, to which is suspended a jewel appropriate to the office which the wearer occupies in a lodge. The colour varies according to rank.
COLLEGIA ARTIFICIUM. The " Encyclopedia Americana," art. Masonry, derives the Order from the Collegia Artificium of the Romans ; and says its mem- bers were introduced into this country by the kings Alfred and Athelstan, to build castles and churches. They then united, under written constitutions of the Roman and Greek colleges, and the provisions of the civil law. Their religious tenets being often objects of suspi- cion to the orthodox catholics, and often differing among themselves, they were not allowed to obtrude in frheir meetings, and of course they were kept secret.
COLONIAL. It being necessary, on account of the distance of foreign district Grand Lodges, and the con- sequent delay in their communications with the Grand Lodge of England, that their powers should be more extensive, the Grand Lodge delegates to its foreign district Grand Lodges, meeting under a Grand Mnster duly authorized and appointed by the Grand Master 01 England, in addition to the powers before specified, that of expelling Masous, and erasing lodges within the district, subject, however, to appeal to . ;ie Grand Lodge of England. — Constitutions.
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COLOURS. The masonic colours, like those used in the Jewish tabernacle, are intended to represent the four elements. The white typifies the earth, the sea is repre- sented by the purple, the sky-blue is an emblem of the air, and the crimson of fire.
COLUMN. A pillar, usually cylindrical, used for the sup- port of a building. Its construction and orn amenta tiou varies according to the different orders of architecture.
COMMENTARIES. Nothing would elevate the char acter of a lodge more than a course of historical and philosophical commentaries on the authorized lectures, by an experienced and talented master of the work. If a full and regular attendance of brethren be desirable, this process would ensure it. If the improvement of the mind and the promotion of moral virtue be the objects of our pursuit, this would constitute the most effectual means of recommending them to notice. Whatever is good and valuable in the masonic system would be preserved and maintained by such a practice, and the science would become so unobjectionable in the opinion of the world, that all mankind, if they did not join our ranks, would at least respect our professions, and esteem the motive for our association for the'*6ake of its visible results.
COMMEMORATIVE. Commemorative festivals are incidental to all institutions and systems of religious worship, and are used by Freemasons for the purpose of promoting the interests and increasing the popularity of the Order, of extending the personal acquaintance of the brethren, and of ensuring harmony amongst the members by a social interchange of sentiment, mutual professions of good will towards each other, and benevolence to the Craft at large. %
COMMITTEE. It being essential to the interests of the Craft, that all matters of business to be brought undor the consideration of the Grand Lodge, should be previously known to the Grand Officers and Masters of lodges, that, through them, all the representatives of •lien lodges may be apprized of such business, ami bp
COM. 467
prepared to decide thereon, without being taken by surprise, a general committee, consisting of the present and past Grand Officers, and the Master of every regular lodge shall meet on the Wednesday immediately preced- ing each quarterly communication ; at which meeting, all reports or representations from the Most Worshipful Grand Master, or any board or committee appointed by the Grand Lodge shall be read ; and any member of the Grand Lodge intonating to make a motion therein, or to submit any matter to its consideration, shall, at such general committee, state, in writing, the nature of his intended motion or business, that the same may be read. No motion, or other matter shall be brought into discus- sion in the Grand Lodge, unless it shall have been previously communicated to this general committee. —
Constitutions.
i
COMMON GAVEL teaches us to lop off excrescences, and smooth surfaces; or, in other words, to correct irregularities, and reduce man to a proper level ; so that by quiet deportment, he may, in the school of discipline, learn to be content. What the common gavel is to the workman, enlightened reason is to the passions ; it curbs ambition, depresses envy, moderates anger, and encour- ages good dispositions.
COMMUNICATIONS. Four lodges shall be holden, for quarterly communication, in each year, viz., on the first Wednesday in the months of March, June, September, and December, at which none shall be present but the proper members, without permission of the Grand Master, or presiding Grand Officer. No visitor shall speak to any question without leave of the Grand Master, nor shall he, on any occasion, be permitted to vote. — Constitutions.
COMPANION. The title by which Eoyal Arch Masons address each other, and is equivalent to the word Brother in the Lodge. It is supposed to refer to the companion- ship which existed among the ancient Jews while in captivity, from the destruction of the first temple by Nebiiphadnezzar, until their return to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel, by permission of Cyrus, King of . Persia.
468 COM— CON.
COMPASSES. The compasses ought to keep m within the bonds of union with all mankind, but more especially with our brother Masons ; and may every one whose hands have lifted this great light continue to be guided by it in all his actions ! By the compasses the kilful architect is enabled accurately to determine the elative proportions of all parts of the building when he is laying it down upon the tracing-board for the use of the workmen. Without accurate measurement, and thereby acquired symmetry and eurythmy, or beautiful and skilful proportioning of all its parts unto the whole, architectural beauty is not attainable. Without cultivat- ed and amiable conduct — without benevolent feelings and charitable actions towards each other, no endearing bond amongst mankind is conceivable ; for so long as mankind confine themselves to acts of justice alone to each other, so long must they be kept asunder by cold civility. It is only the calm affection of pure philanthropy which can unite them in the closer bonds of fraternal affection. A circle or line drawn by the compasses is also an emblem of eternity, and commonly represented by a serpent in the form of a circle. — Gadicke.
COMPLAINT. If any complaint be brought, the brother found guilty shall stand to the award and deter- mination of the lodge, who are the proper and competent judges of all such controversies (unless you carry them by appeal to the Grand Lodge), and to whom they ought to be referred, unless a lord's work be hindered the meanwhile, in which case a particular reference may bt made ; but you must never go to law about what con- cerneth Ma sonry, without an absolute necessity apparent to the lodge.
COMPOSITE. The Composite order of architecture li so called from being composed out of the other orders. It is also called the Roman or Italic order, as having been invented by the Romans, conformably to the rest, which are denominated from the people among whom they had their rise.
CONCEALMENT. Keep the door of thy lips nor ever let the frantic moments of revenge wound that
CON. 469
which, in sober reflection, perhaps thou wouldst wish, in vain, to spend years to heal. Think the best, but never speak the worst ; reverence and imitate the good quali- ties of others, but to all their defects, whether real or imaginary, be a Mason in secrecy, and thus prove to the world — whose eye is curious, indeed, over Masons — that one of the secrets of Masonry is the concealment of our brother's fault, which, by discovery, could neither b*1 amended nor obliterated.
CONCLUSION. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil. — Solomon.
CONCORD. The Master of each lodge should found his government in concord and universal love ; for as the Great Architect moves the system with his finger, and touches the spheres with harmony, so that the morning stars together sing the songs of gratitude, and the floods clap their hands, amidst the invariable beauties of order ; so should we, rejoicing, be of one accord and of one law, in unanimity, in charity, and in affection, moving by one unchanging system, and actuated by one principle, recti- tude of manners. — Hutchinson.
CONFIDENCE. What the ignorant call "the oath," is simply an obligation, covenant, and promise enacted previously to the divulging of the specialities of the Order, and our means of recognizing each other ; and that they shall be kept from the knowledge of the world, lest their original intent should be thwarted, and their benevolent purport prevented. Now pray what harm is there in this ? Do you not all, when you have anything of a private nature wh.ch you are willing to confide in a particular friend, before you tell him what it is, demand a solemn promise of secrecy ? And is there not the utmost propriety in knowing whether your friend is determined to keep your secret before you presume tr reveal it ? — Harris.
CONSECRATING. The day of consecration was
*70 CON.
annually held as a festival by the brethren of the lodge j and as it is frequently the ease that none of those who laid the foundation of' the building, and who first taught how it was to be carried on, are in existence, it is a most solemn festival. On this occasion the building must be duly surveyed, and those parts which have become decayed by age must be repaired. When this has been properly done — when the Great Architect of the Uni- verse has been thanked for the blessings he has conferred upon the lodge and its members during the year which has passed — when His assistance has been earnestly implored for the time to come, and when the members have most solemnly pledged themselves zealously to devote themselves to His service — then, and not till then, can they go cheerfully to the banquet ; for, by holding a masonic banquet alone, no lodge can duly celebrate this festival. — Gadicke.
CONSTITUTING. The following is the manner of constituting a new lodge. A lodge is duly formed; and, after prayer, an ode in honour of Masonry is sung. The Grand Master is then informed by the Secretary that the brethren present desire to be formed into a new lodge, &c. The petition, the dispensation, and the warrant, or charter of constitution, are now read. The minutes 6f the lodge while under dispensation are likewise read , and, being approved, are declared regular and valid, and signed by the Grand Master. The Grand Master inquires if the brethren approve of the officers wrho are nominated in the warrant to preside over them. This being signi- fied in masonic form, an oration on the nature and design of the institution is delivered. The lodge is then con- secrated according to ceremonies proper and usual on these occasions, but not proper to be written, and the Grand Master constitutes the lodge in ancient form. — Constitutions.
CONSUMMATUM EST. The ne plus ultra of Ma sonry varies in different systems. With some it is one of the Kadoshes, with others the Rose Croix ; and with the Ancient Accepte it is the thirty-third degree. With all, however, the possession of it is considered indispens- able to those who emulate masonic perfection ; and ne
CON— COR. 471
person can be admitted to it who is not master of all the previous degrees. It concludes with the words — summatum est.
CONTROVERSY. Masonry is a universal system, and teaches the relative and social duties of man on the broad and extensive basis of general philanthropy. A Jew, a Mahometan, or a Pagan, may attend our lodges without fear of hearing hi* peculiar doctrines or mode of faith called in question by a comparison with others which are repugnant to Ins creed, because a permanent and unalterable landmark ot Masonry is, the total absence and exclusion of religious or political controversy. Each of these professors practices a system of morality suited to the sanctions of his religion, which, as it ema- nated from the primitive system of divine worship, bears some resemblance to it , and consequently he can hear moral precepts inculcated without imputing a designed reference to any peculiar mode of faith.
COPESTONE. The uppermost and last-laid stone of a building. Operative Masons, at the completion of the edifice, stih1 observe the custom of celebrating the laying of the Copestone. The Most Excellent Master's degree, as conferred in Royal Ardi Chapters, owes much of its im- pressive ceremonies to " the celebration of the Copestone."
CORINTHIAN. The Corinthian is the noblest, richest, and most delicate of all the orders of architec- ture. Villipandus supposes the Corinthian capitol to have taken its origin from an ornament in King Solo- mon's Temple, the leaves whereof were those of the palm tree.
CORN. Corn was a symbol of the resurrection, whicb is significantly referred to in the third degree of Masonry Jesus Christ compares himself to a corn of wheat falling into the ground, as a symbol of resurrection. St. Paul says, the sower sows a simple grain of corn, no matter of what kind, which at its proper season rises to light, clothed in verdure. So also is the resurrection of the dead. The apostle might, says Calmet, have instanced the power of trod in the progress of vivification ; and
i72 COR— COU.
(night have inferred that the same power which could confer life originally, would certainly restore it to those particles which once had possessed it. It is possible he nas done this covertly, having chosen to mention vegeta- ble seed, that being most obvious to common notice ; and yet not intending to terminate his reference in any quality of vegetation.
CORNER-STONE. The principal and important stone in the foundation of an edifice. This stone is usually laid in the north-east corner, and unites the two walls. It is generally deposited in its place with solemn and appropriate ceremonies, and is the depository of memen- tos of the times in which it is laid, for the use and benefit of posterity. Its position accounts, in a rational manner, for the general disposition of a newly-initiated candidate, when enlightened ; but uninstructed he is accounted to be the most superficial part of Masonry. An important symbol in the Mark Master's degree.
COUNTRY LODGES. Country lodges are under the immediate superintendence of the Grand Master of their respective provinces; to whom, or to his deputy, they are to apply in all cases of difficulty or doubt, and to whom all complaints and disputes must be transmitted. If those officers should neglect to proceed in the business, the application or complaint may be transmitted to the Board of General Purposes ; and an appeal in all cases lies to the Grand Lodge or Grand Master. — Constitutions.
COURSE. In the entire course of lectures attached to the three degrees of Masonry, including the fn&l triumph of the Order in the Royal Arch, such events are held prominently to view as are calculated to remind us of our Christian privileges, emanating from, and connected with, the great promises and advantages which were enjoyed by holy men under the patriarchal and Mosaic dispensations. The creation of the v/orl of our first parents from Paradise, with the consoling promise which accompanied that terrible punishment of sin; the translation of Enoch; the deluge; Abraham and Sarah ; Hagar and Ishmael ; the offering of Isaac ; the peregrinations of Jacob ; the deliverance from Egyp-
COW— CRA. 473
tian captivity ; the wanderings in the wilderness , the building of the first and second Temples , the captivities; the revelation of the cherubic emblem of the Deity ; and the annunciation of the Messiah by John the Baptist. The disquisitions on these important points, which embrace also many collateral subjects of equal interest, tire recommended by the sublime elucidations of symbol
ical machinery with which they are accompanied.
•
COWAN. From the affair of Jeptha, an Ephraimite was termed a cowan or worthless fellow. In Egypt a cohen was the title of a priest or prince, and a term oi honour. Bryant, speaking of the harpies, says they were priests of the sun ; and as cohen was the name of a dog as well as a priest, they are termed by Appollonius — "the dogs of Jove." Now St. John cautions the Christian brethren that " without are dogs," (xwsg) cowans or lis- teners ; and St. Paul exhorts the Christians to " beware of dogs, because they are evil workers." Now *vu>r a dog, or evil worker, is the masonic cowan. The above priests or metaphorical dogs, were also called cercyoni- ans or cer-cowans, because they were lawless in their behaviour towards strangers. A writer of the " Freema- sons' Quarterly Review " thus explains the word. " I trace it," says he, " to the Greek verb «xova>, to hear or listen to, from which it is but parce detorta ; and we have high authority for so importing words from one language to another." Our illustrious brother, Sir Wal- ter Scott, makes one of his characters in " Rob Roy " say — " she does not value a lawsuit mair as a cowan, and ye may tell Mac Cullummore that Allan Iverach said sae."
CBAFT. The term applied to persons, collectively in a trade, or mechanical occupation. In free or specu- lative Masonry it signifies the whole Masonic family, wherever dispersed.
CRAFTSMAN. As a Craftsman you are to encourage industry and reward merit ; supply the wants and relieve the necessities of brethren and fellows to the utmost of your power and ability ; and on no account to wrong them or see them wronged, but timely to apprise them 40
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ORE— CRO.
of approaching danger, and view their interest as insep- arable from your own. Such is the nature of your engagements as a Craftsman, and these duties you are now bound, by the most sacred ties, to observe. — Charge, Second Degree.
CREATION. It is the general voice of Scripture that God finished the whole of the creation in six days and rested the seventh ; giving us an example that we might labour six days and rest the seventh from all manual exercises. He who labours with his mind by worldly schemes and plans on the Sabbath day, is as culpable as he who labours with his hands in his accus- tomed calling. It is by the authority of God that the Sabbath is set apart for rest and religious purposes, as the six days of the week are appointed for labour. — Adam Clarke.
CRIMSON. This rich and beautiful colour is emble- matical of fervency and zeal. It is the appropriate colour of the Royal Arch degree ; and admonishes us that we should be fervent in the exercise. of our devo- tions to God, and zealous in our endeavours to promote the happiness of man.
CROSS. According to an ancient tradition, the Tem- ple of Solomon had three foundations, the first of which contained seventy stones, five rows from north to south, and fourteen in each row running from east to west. The centre row corresponded with the upright of a cross, whose transverse was formed by two stones on each side of the eleventh stone from the east end of the centre row of which the upright is formed, and the fourth stone from the west end of it. This stone, which hence occupies the place of the crossing of the beams, was under the centre of the S. S., where was deposited the Ark of the Covenant and Shekinah. This design contained an evident reference to the cr^ss of Christ, and was so placed that the part where the heart of Christ would be at the time of his crucifixion was under *:h« centro of tlio S. S.
CRU-CUB. 475
CRUSADES. There is not an instance of the Euro- pean states uniting in any one enterprise save the holy war; and from thence we most rationally must conceive the present number of Masons, dispersed over the face of Europe, was principally derived. By the Crusades, the number of our society would be greatly augmented' the occasion itself would revive the rules of Masonry they being so well adapted to that purpose, and alsc professional of the Christian faith, from wThence sprang the spirit of the enterprise. After these pursuits sub- sided, bodies of men would be found in every country from whence the levies were called ; and what would preserve the society in every state, even during the persecutions of zealots, the Master Mason's Order, under its present principles, is adapted to every sect of Chris- tians. It originated from the earliest era of Christianity, in honour to, or in confession of, the religion and faith of Christians, before the poison of sectaries was diffused over the church. — Hutcltinsun.
CRUX ANSATA. This sign, originally signifying life, was adopted as a Christian emblem, either from its similarity to the shape of a cross, or from its being considered the symbol of a state of future existence.
CRYPT. A subterranean vault. On the top of the mount of Olives was a vast and very ancient crypt, in " the shape of a cone of immense size ; the vertex alone appearing level with the soil, and exhibiting by its section at the top a small circular aperture, the sides extending below to a great depth lined with a hard red stucco." It was an idolatrous construction, perhaps as old as Solomon, and profaned by Josiah. If Solomon built this crypt, he might, as the Jews say he did, construct one of the same kind beneath the Temple, for the reception of the ark, &c., in case of danger ; but this must remain undecided till the " times of the Gentilea are fulfilled." — Ca/mct.
CUBE. The cube is a symbol of truth, of wisdom, of moral perfection. The new Jerusalem promised by the Apocalypse, is equal in length, breadth, and height. The mystical city ought to be considered as a new
476 , CUB.
church, where divine wisdom will reign. Isaiah, an- nouncing the coming of the Messiah, said, " He shall dwell in the highest place of the solid rock, and the water which shall flow from him shall give life."
CUBICAL STONE. At the building cf the Temple of Jerusalem, an unexpected arid afflicting event occurred, which threw the Masons engaged in the work into the greatest confusion. The G. M. (H. A. B.) had sent to certain F. Cs. thirteen stones, and directed that with these they should complete a small square near the cape-stone, being the only portion of the fabric which remained unfinished. Every stone of the temple was formed into a square, containing five equilateral triangles, each equilateral triangle being equal to a cube, and each side and base of the triangles being equal to a plumb line. The space, therefore, which remained to be com pleted was the last triangle of the last stone, and equal to the eighth part of the plumb-line, or | of the circle, and ys of the triangle, which number is in Hebrew rf c the great name of the Almighty. The thirteen stoneb consisted of all the fragments which remained from the building, and comprised two cubes in two divisions. In the first was contained one cube in an entire piece, and in the second a cube in twelve parts : viz., 4^ parts in 1 piece, 2 parts in 4 pieces, 1 part in 1 piece, and \