Freemasonry, a fraternal organization with roots that extend back to medieval stonemason guilds, has had a profound influence on the cultural and linguistic tapestry of the modern world. Many phrases, some subtle and others overt, have their origins in Masonic rituals, teachings, and symbolism. Below, we delve into 30 such phrases and their fascinating backstories.
On the Level
The level is a tool that ensures a surface is perfectly horizontal. When Masons say they’re “on the level” with one another, they’re stressing equality and straightforwardness. This reflects Freemasonry’s democratic ideals where every member, regardless of external distinctions, is equal in the lodge.
On the Square
The square checks the accuracy of right angles on stones. In broader society, “dealing on the square” has come to mean interacting honestly. The square in Masonic teachings represents morality, reminding Masons to be upright in their actions.
To be a Good Man and True
Historically, this was a requirement for joining the fraternity. Over time, it has evolved to embody the Masonic aspiration for its members to live morally and ethically, not just within the lodge but in wider society.
To Give Someone the Third Degree
The Master Mason degree, or Third Degree, is intense and significant in Masonic progression. Non-Masons adopted the phrase to mean a rigorous questioning or interrogation, capturing the depth and intensity of the original ritual.
Meeting on the Level
Expanding on the first point, this phrase emphasizes the erasure of social, political, or religious differences within the lodge, uniting members in brotherhood and shared ideals.
Traveling Man
Medieval masons often traveled in search of work. In Freemasonry, this has evolved into the metaphorical journey of self-improvement and enlightenment through Masonic teachings.
Cornerstone
Beyond construction, the laying of a cornerstone is symbolic in many cultures. In Masonic ceremonies, it underscores foundational principles, the importance of beginnings, and the direction the Masonic edifice will take.
Rough Ashlar and Perfect Ashlar
These stones symbolize a Mason’s journey. The transformation from a rough, imperfect stone to a refined one mirrors the Masonic ideals of personal development and moral perfection.
Light
Light dispels darkness, symbolic of ignorance. Freemasonry’s focus on enlightenment is not just intellectual but also moral, urging members to seek knowledge and improve themselves.
Cable Tow
More than a physical rope, the cable tow represents a Mason’s commitments. Initially a symbol of the initiate’s bond to the lodge, its deeper meaning relates to the responsibilities every Mason has to their brothers and society.
Hoodwinked
The act of blindfolding candidates emphasizes trust and submission to the Masonic experience. It’s a transformational moment, transitioning from darkness (ignorance) to light (knowledge).
The Widow’s Son
Hiram Abiff, a key figure in Masonic legend, is known as ‘The Widow’s Son’. His story, central to the Master Mason degree, exemplifies fidelity to one’s promises and the consequences of integrity.
Due Form and Due Bounds
These terms reinforce the importance of understanding one’s duties and the boundaries within which a Mason operates. Respect for protocol, tradition, and the rights of others are key themes.
Square Deal
Drawing from the symbolism of the square, this phrase entered wider society to signify fairness, just treatment, and mutual respect in dealings.
East to West
In lodges, the East, where the Worshipful Master sits, is a place of honor. The journey from East to West captures the Masonic pursuit of enlightenment and the cyclical nature of life.
To Be Passed
This phrase signifies a Mason’s progression through degrees, marking milestones in his Masonic education and personal development.
The Middle Chamber
In Masonic allegory, this represents an intermediate phase in a Mason’s journey, highlighting deeper understanding, reflection, and learning.
Plumb Line
A tool ensuring verticality, its symbolism reminds Masons to lead upright lives, maintain integrity, and stand firm in their beliefs.
Building Solomon’s Temple
Beyond the historical construction, this allegory symbolizes the spiritual edifice each Mason builds within himself, brick by brick, through virtue and knowledge.
Checkered Floor
This duality is not just about good vs. evil. The checkered pattern represents life’s varied experiences, urging Masons to maintain equilibrium and recognize the interconnectedness of joy and sorrow.
The Pillars Jachin and Boaz
Representing the entrance to King Solomon’s Temple, these pillars emphasize foundational strength and stability. They also contain layers of esoteric meaning, intertwining with various Masonic lessons about duality, balance, and knowledge.
Darkness to Light
In Freemasonry, this transition symbolizes the movement from ignorance to knowledge. However, in some contexts, especially when misunderstood, it’s taken to mean moving from a place of secrecy to exposure, often insinuating the revelation of hidden agendas.
Riding the Goat
While not an official Masonic ritual, the phrase has been used as a jest or misconception about initiation rites. It’s sometimes misused to mock or sensationalize Masonic practices.
Masonic Handshake
A method of recognition between Masons, it has been depicted in conspiracy theories and popular culture as a way of secretive communication or mutual acknowledgment for preferential treatment.
Being Blackballed
This derives from a Masonic voting system where a white ball signifies approval and a black ball signifies disapproval. In broader society, to be “blackballed” means to be ostracized or excluded, often in a secretive or underhanded manner.
Square and Compass Concealment
While the square and compass are key symbols in Masonry, critics or conspiracy theorists sometimes use them to represent hidden motives or secret power structures, especially when they appear subtly in media or architecture.
To Wear the Apron
In Masonry, the apron symbolizes purity and the work of a stonemason. However, it’s been misused in some contexts to insinuate subservience or as a derogatory term suggesting someone is being controlled or manipulated.
Chipping Away
Inspired by the mason’s craft, this phrase in negative contexts can mean eroding or undermining something subtly over time, especially when referencing influence or control.
Mason’s Mark
Historically, masons had personal symbols or marks they’d chisel onto stones for recognition. Misinterpretations have led some to believe these marks are signs of secret alliances or coded messages.
Brotherhood Obligations
While the brotherhood in Masonry emphasizes mutual support and shared values, in negative contexts, it’s been twisted to imply undue obligations, nepotism, or cronyism.
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