Section III. The Lodge 74

Lodge Meetings — where held 75
Foim, Dimensions and Boundaries of the Lodge 76
Covering of the Lodge 78
Furniture of the Lodge 80
Ornaments of a Lodge 81
Lights of the Lodge 82
Movable and Immovable Jewels 83
Situation of the Lodge 85
Dedication of Lodges 86
Great Tenets of a Freemason 93
Cardinal Virtues 94
£U CONTENTS.
Charge to the Candidate 9'
Charge at the Initiation of a Soldier 101
FEiiow-CRAi-r — Illustrations 103
Symbolism of the Degree 115
Symbolical Jewels 118
Working Tools of a Fellow-Craft 120
Operative and Speculative Masonry 123
Pillars of the Porch 127
Symbols of Peace, Unity and Plenty 129
Use of the Globes 129
Winding Stairs 130
Order in Architecture 131
Five Senses of Human Nature 142
Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences 148
Emblem of Plenty explained 154
Charge to the Candidate 157
Lecture on the Legend of the Winding Stairs 159
SIastee Mason — Illustrations 171
Symbolism of the Degree 187
Working Tools of Master Mason 194
Twelve Messengers — Acacia Tree — Letter G 197
Funeral Dirge 198
Eites of Sepulture — Hebrew Customs 200
Erection of Solomon's Temple 204
Emblems of Master Mason's Degree 209
Charge to the Candidate 216
Officers' Clothing and Jewels 220
isoiENT Ceeemonies — Petition for a New Lodge 223
Consecration of a New Lodge 225
Dedication and Constitution of a New Lodge 23'"
Installation of the OfEcers of a Lodge 24C
Installation of the Officers of a Grand Lodge 261
Laying Foundation Stones of Public Structures 281
Dedication of Masonic Halls 293
Grand Visitations 309
Masonic Bukial Services „ . . 311
REGtrLATIONS FOE Peocessions 344
Ritual foe a Lodge of Soeeow 345
Beevice fob Conseoeating Masonic Cemeteeies 375
Masonic Cu-endae 38g
ippENDix — Masonic Documents and Forms of Trials
GENERAL AHIMAN REZON
AND
FEEEMASON'S GUIDE.
il ^
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INTRODUCTORY.
REEMASONEY is a moral institution,
established by virtuous men, with the praiseworthy design of recalliug to our remembrance the most sublime Tbuths, in the midst of innocent and social pleas- ures, — founded on Liberalitt, Bbotherlt Love, and Charity. " It is a beautiful system of Mohauty, vailed in allegory and illustrated by symbols." Truth is its center — the point whence its radii diverge, direct its disciples to a correct knowledge of the Great Architect of the Universe, and the moral laws which he has ordained for their government.*
A proper administration of the various ceremonies connected with the Ritual of Freemasonry is of the highest importance, as these form the distinctive peculiarity of the institution. In their nature, they are simple; in their end, moral and instructive. They naturally excite a high degree of curiosity in a newly- initiated Brother, and create an earnest desire to inves-
♦ To use the worda of an elegant writer, "Freemasonry la an Inatltntlon, not, as the ignorant and nninstructed vainly suppoae, founded on unmeaning myB. tery, for the encouragement of bacchanalian festivity and support of mere good* fellowship; but an institution founded on eternal reason and truth, whose deep basis ia the civilization of mankiTid, and whose everlasting glory is aupportod by those tro mighty pillara — SriENCs and Mokautt."
14 GENERAL AHIMAN EEZON.
tigate tlieir meaning, and to become acquaii-ted with their object and design. It requires, however, close application and untiring diligence to ascertain the precise nature of every ceremony which our ancient brethren saw reason to adopt in the formation of au exclusive system, which was to pass llirough the world unconnected with the religion and politics of all times, and of every people among whom it should flourish and increase. In order to preserve our ceremonies from the hand of innovation, it is essentially necessary that every officer should be thoroughly acquainted with them, and that a firm determination should exist among the Craft to admit no change. A few words here or there may not in themselves appear of much consequence; yet, by frequent allowance, we become habituated to them, and thus open the door to evils of more serious magnitude. There is, there can be, no safety but in a rigid adherence to the ancient ceremonies of the Order. These ceremonies and regulations are fixed by rules similar to those governing affairs in social life. Every Freemason is required to bring his portion of good ideas, and contribute to the perfecting of the ceremo- nies and symbols, and to the edification of Troth, the uni- versal and eternal temple, which will one day inclose all humanity within its precincts.
OKIGIN OF MASONRY, AND ITS ADVANTAGES.
From the commencement of the world, we may trace the foundation of Masonry, Ever since symmetry began, and harmony displayed her charms, our Order has had a being During many ages, and in many different countries, it has flourished. No art, no science, preceded it. In the dark periods of antiquity, when literature was in a low state and the rude manners of our forefathers withheld from them that
INTEODUCTOBI. 15
knowledge we now so amply share, Masonry diffused its inflaence. This science unvailed, arts arose, civilization took place, and the progress of knowledge and philosophy gradu- ally dispelled the gloom of ignorance and barbarism. Gov- ernment being settled, authority was given to laws, and the assemblies of the Fraternity acquired the patronage of the great and the good, while the tenets of the profession diffused anbonnded philanthropy.
Abstracted from the pure pleasures which arise from friendship so wisely constituted as that which subsists among Masons, and which it is scarcely possible that any circumstance or occurrence can erase. Masonry is a science confined to no particular country, but extends over the whole terrestrial globe. Wherever the arts flourish, lliere it flour- ishes too. Add to this, that by secret and inviolable signs, carefully preserved among the fraternity, it becomes an uni- versal language. Hence, many advantages are gained: the distant Chinese, the wild Arab, and the American savage, will embrace a brother Briton, and know that, btsidcs the common ties of humanity, there is still a stronger obligation to induce liim to kind and friendly ofiBces. The spirit of the fulminating priest will be tamed, mid a moral brother, though of a different persuasion, engage his esteem: for mutual tol- eration in religious opinions is one of the most distinguishing and valuable characteristics of the Craft. As all religions teach morality, if a brother be found to act the part of a truly honest man, his private speculative opinions a re left to God and himself. Thus, through the influence of Masonry, which is reconcilable to the best policy, all those disputes which embitter life and sour the tempers of men, are avoid ed ; while the common good, the general object, is zealously
pursued.
From this v'.ew of onr system, its utility must be suffi- ciently obvious. The universal principles of the Art unite,
16 QENEEAIi AHIMAN KEZON.
;n one indissoluble bond of affection, men of the most oppo site tenets, of the most distant countries, and of the most contradictory opinions; so that in every nation a Mason may find a friend, and in every climate a home.*
Such is the nature of our institution, that, in the Lodge, which is confined to no particular spot, union is cemented by sincere attachment, and pleasure reciprocally communi- cated in the cheerful observance of every obliging office. Virtue, the grand object in view, luminous as the meridian snu, shines refulgent on the mind, enlivens the heart, and heightens cool approbation into warm sympathy and cordial attention. — Preston.
OOVEENMENT OF THE FRATEENITT.
The mode of government observed by the Fraternity will give the best idea of the nature and design of the Masonic Institution.
Three classes are established among Masons, under differ- ent appellations. The privileges of each class are distinct; and particular means are adopted to preserve those privileges to the just and meritorious. Honor and probity are recom- mendations to the First Class; in which the practice of virtue is enforced, and the duties of morality are inculcated; while the mind is prepared for a regular progress in the principles of knowledge and philosophy. Diligence, assiduity, and ap- plication, are qualifications for the Second Class; in which is given an accurate elucidation of science, both in theory and practice. Here human reason is cultivated by a due
** On this principle, nnfortunate captives in war, and sojourners, accident ftlly cast on a distant shore, are particular objects of attention, and seldom faU to experience indulgence from MasouB; and it is very remarkable that there is not an instance on record of a breach of fidelity, or of ingratit^ida vheie that indulgence has been liberally extended.
INTEODUCTOBT. 11
exertion ot me intellectual powers and faculties; nice and difficult theories are explained; new discoveries are produced, and those already known beautifully embellished. The Third Class is restricted to a selected few, whom truth and fidelity have distinguished, whom years and experience have im- proved, and whom merit and abilities have entitled to pre- ferment. With them the ancient landmarks of the Order are preserved; and from them we learn the necessary in- structive lessons whicii dignify the Art, and qualify the professors to illustrate its excellence and utility.
Such is the established plan of the Masonic System. By this judicious arrangement, true Friendship is cultivated among different ranks of men. Hospitality promoted, Indus- try rewarded, and Ingenuity encouraged. — Preston.
THE LODGE AND ITS GOVEENMENT.
1. The room in which a certain number of Freemasons assemble, for business connected with the institution, is called a Lodge. The assembly, or organized body of Freemasons, is also called a Lodge, just as tiie word Church is expressive both of the congregation and the place in which they meet to worship. A Lodge of Freemasons, to be legally constituted, must be in possession of an unreclaimed charter, granted by the Grand Lodge in whose jurisdiction it is situated; the Book of the Law; Square and Compasses; the Book of Con- stitutions; a code of By-Laws; its Officers, and a sufficient number of members (not less than seven) to perform the ceremonies pertaining to the Order.
2. The constitutional officers of a Lodge are the Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer, Secretary, Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, and Tiler. To which may be
2*
18 GENEIiAL AHTM AN KEZON.
added, t wo Stewards, (sometimes called Masters of Ceremo- nies,) a Marshal, a Chaplain, and an Organist.
3. A Lodge ought to assemble at least once a month tot work and instruction.
4. A Lodge has the right to do all the work of Ancient Craft Masonry; to be represented at all the communications of the Grand Lodge; to elect and install its officers; to increase its numbers by the admission of new members, and no member can be forced upon a Lodge without its consent; to make by-laws for its government; to exclude a member, on cause shown, temporarily or permanently; to leyy tax on its members; to appeal to the Grand Lodge or Grand Master from the decision of its Master; to exercise penal authority over its own members, and over all unaffiliated Masons living within the limits of its jurisdiction, and to change its time and place of meeting within the town or city designated in its vrarrant.
5. A Lodge under dispensation is a temporary and inchoate organization of Freemasons, acting under authority from the Grand or Deputy Grand Master; is not entitled to repre- sentation in the Grand Lodge ; cannot elect or install officers ; is without power to frame by-laws, or adopt a seal.
QUALmCATIONS OF CANDIDATES.
The qualiGcations which are essential in those who apply for initiation'into the mysteries of Freemasonry, are of two kinds, Inlernal and JExternal,*
* It Is true that the ritual of the first degree says, that "It Is the Interna] and not the external qualifications which recommend a man to be made a 4Ia. icn;" but the context of the sentence shows that the external quallflcationi there relerred to are " worldlv wealth and honors." The ritual, therefore haj of course no allusion to the sort of external qualifications which are here to be diBcuesed,
INTEODTJCTOBY. 19
The Internal qualifications of a candidate are those which lie within his own bosom, and are not known to the world. They refer to his peculiar dispositions toward the institution, his motives and design in seeking au entrance into it. Henca they are known to himself alone; and a knowledge of them can only be acquired from his own solemn declarations.
The External qualifications are those which refer to his outward fitness for initiation, and are based on his moral and religious character, the frame of his body, the constita- tion of his mind, and his social position. A knowledge of these is to be acquired from a careful examination by a committee appointed for that purpose.
The person who desires to be made a Mason must be a man, believing in the existence of a Supreme Being and of a future existence; at least twenty-one years of age; of good moral character, temperate, industrious, and capable of earn- ing an honest livelihood; he must come of his own free-will and accord, uninfluenced by mercenary or other improper motives; be of sound mind and body; capable of reading and writing; not deformed or dismembered, but hale and sound in his physical conformation, having his rigLt limbs, aa a man ought to have.
A-BMISSION OF CANDIDATES.
By the regulations of the Fraternity, a candidate for the mysteries of Masonry cannot be initiated in any regular Lodge, without having stood proposed one regular meeting, unless a dispensation be obtained in his favor. All apphca- tions for initiation should be made in writing, at a regular meeting of the Lodge, giving name, residence, age, occnpa- tion, and references, in the following form.
20 GENERAL AHIMAN EEZON.
To the JVorsMp/ul Master, Officers and Brethren of. ... , Lodge, No , Free and Accepted Masons.
The undersigiied, unbiassed by the improper so- licitation of friends, and uninfluenced by mercenary or other unworthy motives — prompted by a favor- able opinion of your ancient and honorable institu- tion, and a desire for knowledge — freely and volun- tarily offers himself a candidate for initiation into the mysteries of Freemasonry, and respectfully prays that he may be admitted and become a member of your Lodge, promising a cheerful conformity to the ancient usages and established customs of the Order.
Was born in .... , is . . . years of age ; occupation , and resides A. B.
Recommended by
The petition, having been read id open Lodge, is placed on file. A committee is then appointed to investigate the character and qualifications of the petitioner. If, at the next regular meeting of the Lodge, the report of the com- niittee be favorable, the necessary preparations are made for his admission.
OPENING AND CLOSING THE LODGE.
In all regalar assemblies of men who are convened foi wise and useful purposes, the commencement and conclubioL of business are accompanied with some form. In everj country in the world the practice prevails, and is deemed essential. From the most remote periods of antiquity, it may be traced, and the refined improvements of modern limes have not totally abolished it.
Ceremonies, when simply considered, it is true, are little more than visionary delusions; but their effects are some- times important. When they impress awe and reverence on the mind, and engage the attention by external attraction to solemn rites, they are interesting objects. These purposes are effected by judicious ceremonies, when regularly conducted and properly arranged. On this ground, they have received the sanction of the wisest men in all ages, and consequently could not escape the notice of Masons. To begin well, is the most likely means to end well; and it has been properly remarked, that when order and method are neglected at the beginning, they will be seldom found to take place at the end.
The ceremonies of opening and closing a Lodge with solemnity and decorum is, therefore, nuivtrsally admitted among Masons, and which differ in each of the degrees; but differ so slightly as not to affect their general character. They must, therefore, be considered in reference to the several pur- poses which they are designed to accomplish.
To conduct these ceremonies with propriety, ought to be the peculiar study of every Mason, especially of those who have the honor to rule in our assemblies. To persons who are dignified, every eye is naturally dii'ectcd for propriety of conduct and behavior; and from them other brethren, who
22 GENERAL AHDVtAN EEZON.
are less informed, will naturally expect to derive an example worthy of imitation. From a share in these ceremonies no Mason can be exempted. This is the 6rst request of the Master, and the prelude to all business. No sooner has it been signified that the Lodge is about to be opened, than every officer repairs to his station, and the intent of the meeting becomes the sole object of attention.
A Lodge must always be opened on the Third Degree, and in due form, for the transaction of any business, except that of initiating or passing a candidate into the mysteries of the first and second degrees. The first business after opening, if it be a regular communication, is the reading of the minutes of the preceding communication, for the informa- tion of the brethren. The minutes of the proceedings of the evening should, also, always be read before the Lodge is closed, that the brethren may know that they have been properly recorded, and then duly approved.
The Lodge should always be opened and closed with prayer. PEAYEE,
TO BE USED AT OPENING.
Most holy and glorious Lord God, the Great A.rchitect of the Lniverse, the Giver of all good gifts and graces! Thou hast promised that, "where two or three are gathered together in thy name, thou wilt be in their midst, and bless them." In thy name we have assembled, and in thy name we desire to proceed in all our doings. Grant that the sublime principles of Freemasonry may so subdue every discordant
OPENING TUE LODGE. 23
passion within us — so harmonize and enrich our hearts with thine own love and goodness — that the Tjodge at this time may humbly reflect that order and beauty which reign for ever before thy throne. — Amen.
Response hy the brethren. — So mote it be. ANOTHER PRATEE,
WHICH MAY BE USED AT OPENING.
Great Architect of the Universe ! in thy name we have assembled, and in thy name we desire to proceed in aU our doings. Grant that the sublime principles of Freemasonry may so sub due every discordant passion within us — so hai monize and enrich our hearts with thine own love and goodness — that the Lodge at this time may reflect that order and beauty which reigna for ever before thy throne. — Amcii.
Response. — So mote it be.
In addition to the Prayer, the following Charge may be given
The ways of virtue are beautiful. Klnowledge \b attained by degrees. Wisdom dwells with con- templation; there we must seek her. Let ua then, brethren, apply ourselves with becoming
24 GENERAL AHIMAN REZON
zeal to the practice of the excellent principles inculcated by our Order. Let us ever remember hat the great objects of our association are, tht restraint of improper desires and passions, the cultivation of an active benevolence, and the pro- motion of a correct knowledge of the duties we owe to God, our neighbor, and ourselves. Let us be united, and practice with assiduity the sacred tenets of our Order. Let all private animosities, if any unhappily exist, give place to affection and brotherly love. It is useless parade to talk of the subjection of irregular passions within the walls of the Lodge, if we permit them to triumph in our intercourse with each other. Uniting in the grand design, let us be happy our- selves, and endeavor to promote the happiness of others. Let us cultivate the great moral vir- tues which are laid down on our Masonic Trestle- board, and improve in every thing that is good, amiable, and useful. Let the benign Genius of the Mystic Art preside over our councils, and under her sway let us act with a dignity becom- ing the high moral character of our venerable institution.
Or the following Ode may be sang:
CLOSING THE LODGE. AiB — Dundee.
25
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hearts and pur-pose strong, We'll raise our notes of
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grate-ful praise. With u - nion in our song.
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Around our altar's sacred shrine May Love's pure incense rise,
Bearing upon its mystic flame Oar music to the skies !
PEATER,
TO BE USED AT OLOSINQ.
Supreme Architect of the Universe, accept our humble thanks for the many mercies and bless- ings which thy bounty has conferred on us, and especially for this friendly and sociai intercourse.
26 GENERAL aHIMAN EEZON.
Pardon, we beseech thee, whatever thou hast seen amiss in us since we have been together and continue to us thy presence, protection, and blessing. Make us sensible of the renewed obli- gations we are under to love thee, and as we are about to separate, and return to our respective places of abode, wilt thou be pleased so to influ- ence our hearts and minds, that we may each one of us practice, out of the Lodge, those great moral duties which are inculcated in it, and with reverence study and obey the laws which thou hast given us in thy Holy Word. — Amen.
Hesponse. — So mote it be.
OHAEGE,
TO BE USED AT CLOSING.
Bretheen: You are now to quit this sacred retreat of friendship and virtue, to mix again with the world. Amidst its concerns and em- ployments, forget not the duties you have heard eo frequently inculcated and forcibly recommend- ed in this Lodge. Be dihgent, prudent, temper- ate, discreet. Remember that around this altar you have })romised to befriend and relieve every
CLOSING THE LODGE 27
brother who shall need your assistance. Re- member that you have promised to remind him, in the most tender manner, of his failings, and aid his reformation; to vindicate his character, when wrongfully traduced; suggest, in his behalf, the most candid and favorable circumstances. Is he justly reprehended ? Let the world observe how Masons love one another.
These generous principles are to extend fur- ther. Every human being has a claim upon your kind offices. Do good unto all. Recommend it more especially to the household of the faithful.
By diligence in the duties of yoiu- respective callings; by liberal benevolence and diffusive charity; by constancy and fidehty in your friend- ships, discover the beneficial and happy effects of this ancient and honorable institution. Let it not be supposed that you have here labored in vain, and spent your strength for naught; for your work is with the Loed and your recompense with your God,
Finally, brethren, be ye all of one mind; hve in peace, and may the God of love and peace dehght to dwell with and bless you!
28
QENEEAL AHTMAN EEZON.
The following Ode may be sung at closing: AiB — SicUian Hymn.
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Now our so - cial la- bors clos - ing, Homage
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of the heart we pay ; Each in con - fi -
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- dence re - posing, Kindest thoughts that ne'er decay.
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Let ns each, in Time's commotion, Heav'nly light and truth implore:
Thus we'll pass life's stormy ocean, Landing on a happier shore.
CLOSING BENEDICTION.
May the blessing of Heaven rest upon us and all regular Masons ! May brotherly love prevail, and every moral and social virtue cement us !— - Amen. Res. — So mote it be.
FIRST DEGREE.
ENTEEED APPEENTICE.
"There are mtuiy piominent emblemHin (his degree, teaching, ftrst, the propriety of maintaining regularity of life, and attending to the due improvement of time, by conforming to the prescribed ruJes, for which eight hours are allotted to repose, eight to labor, and eight to the service of God. Secondly, the cleansing of oui hearts and minds from every vice, is inculcated, thereby fitting our bodies as living stones for that spiritual edifice built by the Grand Architect of the Universe. There are many other emblems in this First Step, representing human life as being chequered with good and evil; pointing to the comforts and blessings that surround us, and impressing upon our minds the necessity of a reliance on Divine Providence. Our imperfect condition by nature is likewise adverted to, and the state of perfection to which we hope to arrive by virtuous education, aided by the blessing of God upon our own endeavors, and a due observance of the Holy Scriptures, as pointing out the whole duty of man. Indeed, everything in this degree is adapted to impress upon the mind cf the candidate the necessity of maintaining purity of life anil condujt, in order to ensure a happy immortality. "—Stonk
ENTERED APPRENTICE.