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Fellowcraft Study GuideBlaine C. Clay Instruction

11/13/2010

You have the right to be instructed and examined and when found proficient, you may request advancement to

the sublime degree of Master Mason.



Fellowcraft Study Guide

Blaine C. Clay Instruction

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 1Passed 2Symbolism of the 2° Degree2Duly and Truly PreparedOnce Again 3A Just and LegallyConstituted Lodge 3 The Working Tools of a FellowCraft Mason 4 The Apron of the Fellow CraftMason 5 The Pillars and the Porch 5 The Winding Staircase and

The Lecture 6 Three Theological Virtues 6Five Orders of Architecture 7Seven Liberal Arts andSciences 8

Admission to the MiddleChamber 10Wages of a Fellow CraftMason 10 The Three Precious Jewels 10 The Masonic Letter “G” 11Numbers, Order, Symmetry,and Proportion 11

Duties, Rights, andResponsibilities of a FellowCraft Mason 11Proficiency and Advancement12Glossary 17

FELLOW CRAFTCANDIDATE GUIDE

Congratulations

on your preferment andyouradvancement to theMasonic degree of aFellow of the Craft or FellowCraft. The Fellow Craft

degreeyou have justexperienced embodiesa great deal of knowledgeand wisdom. Itssymbols and lessonscan take a lifetime tofully appreciate. ThisFellow Craft handbookshould be

studied carefully, as itreviews much of theritual associatedwith this degree inorder to help you, thenewly passedFellow Craft Mason, tobetter understand andbenefit fromthis unique experience.

Many Masons believe

that the second degree(degree of theFellow Craft) is the mostbeautiful and moving, if not themost enlightening, of the Masonic degreetrilogy. There areseveral ways themeaning of the FellowCraft degree and its

place between the firstand third degrees of Masonry have beenexplained over theyears. In one sense, theFellow Craft degreesymbolizes the periodof adulthood andresponsibility during aman’s life on earth,following youth and

preceding old age. Inthis stage, man’s task isto acquire knowledgeand apply it to thebuilding and refining of his moral character andto improve thesociety in which helives. As the principalauthor of our modern

Masonic lectures,

William Preston sawFreemasonry as ameansto educate men in theliberal arts and sciencesin order to bettermankind. Fellow CraftMasons of today arealso urged to advanceand appreciate theireducation in these

fields during the ritualof this degree.Some view the three-degree system of ancient craft Masonryas representing aprogressive sciencedirected towardperfectingman’s basic nature. It is

a view of human naturedivided intothe three parts of body,mind, and soul. In thisview, eachdegree addresses andinstructs one part of that Masonic trinity.

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The first degree

encompasses the bodyand the faculties of physical action; theFour Cardinal Virtuesare extolled as theINTRODUCTIONproper guides to actionin the world that wemay perfect ourrelationship to it. Thesecond degree

addresses the mind anditsfaculties; the candidateis instructed in theseven liberal arts andsciences, which wereformulated hundreds of years ago in orderto develop and perfectman’s mental facultiesin preparation for

comprehending thefinal mysteries of ourspiritual truth, whichare exemplified in thethird and final degree of bluelodge Masonry.

PASSED

A candidate, upon

receiving the seconddegree of Masonry, issaid tohave been “passed tothe degree of FellowCraft.” The term passed alludesto the physical act of the candidate’s passingthrough a longaisleway, or

porch, on his way to aplace representing themiddle chamber of KingSolomon’s Temple,where ancient traditionholds that Fellow Craftswere paid their wagesand had their namesrecorded.

SYMBOLISM OF THE2 ˚ (DEGREE OF THEFELLOW OF THECRAFT) The symbolism of theEntered Apprenticedegree emphasizesbeginnings, the firststeps, youth, and

orientation to the light,

whichare all consistent withinitiation into thefraternity. The seconddegreeof Fellow Craftsymbolizes the methodsof developing the mindandprogressing in the craftand, in a larger sense,

the emergence intosymbolic manhood,maturity, and itscommensurateresponsibilities. Therefore, we findsymbols of advancement, passage,instruction, andelevation throughoutthis degree: the taking

of the “next step” and anew way of approachingthe east, for example.What was consideredin the previous degreeto be our weaker naturehas now been squaredand elevated. Whilekeeping our fidelity to

the Three Great Lights,

wedeepen our connectionwith the fraternity andtake on additional,moredifficult commitmentsand responsibilities. The working tools of aFellow Craft Mason—theplumb, the square,and the level—are now

applicable to these newtasks andresponsibilities.With them we try,square, and prove. Withthem we learn todevelop thefaculty of judgment: toascertain what isvaluable, what is true,and what

is real. The central theme of this degree being one of advancement, we arepresented with thesymbol of the WindingStaircase, consisting of three,

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five, and seven steps,

all leading to a placerepresenting the MiddleChamber of KingSolomon’s Temple.Staircases, ladders,extendedvertical ropes, andmountains are allsymbols of ascending tonewheights, or levels.

Gaining entrance to anew place symbolizes adistinctadvancement in ourwork as Freemasons.Attaining this levelgives usaccess to certainbenefits to which wewere not heretoforeentitled.

These benefits are bestsymbolized by the“wages” of a FellowCraftMason—corn, wine, andoil. There are otherbenefits granted hereaswell. We becomeinvested with the ability

to hear the teachings of

ourfraternity and keepthem close to ourfaithful heart. Finally,we arereminded of the centralspiritual focus of Freemasonry by thesymbolismof the letter “G” and thehumility, awe, and

reverence it shouldinspire inall Masons.

DULY AND TRULYPREPARED ONCEAGAINAt the outset of thisdegree, it should beclear to the candidate

thatalthough much of theritual seems familiar, itis also very different,andsome aspects mighteven seem to be inopposition to theprevious degree.

The changes in dress

from an EnteredApprentice Mason to aFellowCraft Mason have beenexplained in theceremony. Gainingadmissionis similar to the firstdegree, with theaddition of the addedbenefit of a

pass (password), whichis given to him by hisguide.We are trying todemonstrate thatknowledge and energyare freelygiven toward gainingthe privileges, or moreproperly called “therights

and benefits,” of Freemasonry, and thatonly by the aid of otherswe areable to, ourselves,advance. Your methodof reception into thelodgeroom was also familiar,yet different in its

specific admonition to

alwaysact by the square of virtue.

A JUST ANDLEGALLYCONSTITUTEDLODGEA lodge of Masons isconsidered just if the

Three Great Lights of Masonry are properlydisplayed upon thealtar. For a lodge of Masons tobe legally constituted means that the charterof the lodge, issued andsealedby the Grand Lodgeunder which the lodge

is beholden, isdisplayedand thus authorizes thelodge to be working, inother words, conductingproper Masonicbusiness.

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THE WORKING

TOOLS OF AFELLOW CRAFTMASON The principal workingtools of a Fellow CraftMason are theplumb, the square, andthe level. You will noticethat these samethree instruments are

also the jewels of officeof the three principallodge officers—theWorshipful Master, thesenior warden, and the junior warden.

The Plumb –The plumbis an instrument madeuse of by operativestone masons to try

perpendiculars and tosee that the risingcourses of the stone walls are trueto the cornerstone andto the center of theearth. To the speculativeFreemason, however,

the plumb is a symbol

of moralrectitude, of uprightness of conduct,of living an ethical and“good” life,and of acting on thestraight and narrowpath of truth, justice,and mercy.By living such a life, weare thereby a greater

benefit to the fraternity,tothose around us, and toall of society.Freemasons arecharged (required)to “act by the plumb” intheir dealings with theirbrother Masons andwithall others, placing

fairness and honestdealing above personalgain andprofit.

The Square – Thesquare is an instrumentmade use of byoperative

stone masons to

“square” their work towhat is true withrespect tothe foundation and thecornerstone of thebuilding. To thespeculativeFreemason, the squareis the symbol of morality, truthfulness,and

honesty. The directionof the two sides of thesquare form an angle of 90°, or a right angle, socalled because this isthe angle which stonesmust have if they are tobe used to build astable and upright wall.Itsymbolizes accuracy,

not varying by even asingle degree. WhenMasons“part upon the square,” we may travel indifferent directions, butwith fullknowledge that ourvarious courses in life

will be guided according

to theangle of the square(which means in theright direction), until wemeet again.

The Level – The level isan instrument madeuse of by operativestonemasons to prove or

determine horizontals. To the speculativeFreemason,the level is a symbol of equality. Each person isendowed with worthand dignity which istruly spiritual, andshould not therefore besubjectto man-made

distinctions. Masonryrecognizes that oneman may havegreater potential in life,service, or reward thananother; but we alsobelieve that any mancan aspire to anyheight, no matter howgreat. Thus,

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the level dignifies

physical as well asmental labor and theman whoperforms it. The levelalso symbolizes thepassage of time, which,in thefinal analysis, will levelus all when we are atlast called from earthlylabor

to face the SupremeBeing and have ourlife’s work reviewed.Masons areencouraged to “meet on the level” with theirMasonic fellows andwith allothers as they journeythrough this worldtogether, realizing that,

in Hiseyes, we are all equal.

THE APRON OF THEFELLOW CRAFTMASON The manner in which aFellow Craft Mason istaught to wear his

lambskin apron is

symbolic of the fact thathe is now considered byhis brothers to be aqualified worker, orhewer, in the forestsand inthe quarries and nolonger a mereapprentice and bearerof burdenswith little or no

responsibility. The samething applies to yourmethodof pedal advancementand the tokens, grips,signs, and modes of recognition conferredupon you during theritual of your passingfromEntered Apprentice to

Fellow Craft Mason.Since there is now littleto distinguish the FellowCraft from a MasterMason, at least in hismanner of ritual dress,it is important for thenewly passed FellowCraft to

remember that his

actions and deportmentmay very well be thoseuponwhich the whole of Freemasonry is judged.

THE PILLARS AND THE PORCH Two great bronze pillarswhich were placed atthe entrance to KingSolomon’s Temple andare now symbolicallyrepresented withineveryMasonic lodge arecalled Boaz and Jachin,respectively. Thesepillarsare symbolic of strengthand establishment—andby implication, powerand control. One mustremember that powerand control are placedbefore you, so that youmight come to realizethat power withoutcontrolis anarchy, orconversely, that control

without power is futility.

Manmust have both powerand control if his life isto be successful. Thesetwo great pillars weredesigned and cast byHiram Abiff, a widow’ssonfrom the tribe of Naphtali (I Kings 7:13–14). The globes on the

capitalsof the columns aresaid to represent thecelestial and terrestrialspheresof heaven and earth. The two pillars alsocorrespond to the ThreeGreatSupports of Masonry—Wisdom, Strength, and

Beauty. The columns of wisdom and strengthare emblematicallyrepresented by thepillars in thesouth and north,respectively, and thecandidate, as he isbrought into

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the lodge, is caused to

represent the thirdcolumn—that of beauty,orbalance—three legsbeing infinitely morestable than two.

THE WINDINGSTAIRCASE

AND THE LECTURE The Staircase Lecture isunique in the blue lodgetrilogy of degreesbecause it is given notby the master or actingmaster as was thelecture of the preceding degree,but by the seniordeacon, acting as a

personal guideand mentor to thecandidate. In this role,the senior deaconemulatesand exemplifies thevery real responsibilityof the more-seniorMason

to guide and educate

his less-knowledgeablebrother in the ways of thecraft. Takingresponsibility forteaching the younger,less-experiencedMasons is vital to thesurvival of thefraternity, and whereasthe greater

responsibility rests withthe Master Masons of alodge, Fellow Crafts aswell are expected toassist in the educationand mentoring of EnteredApprentices when theopportunity arises.Every Mason shouldrealize

that teaching the craftto our younger or less-experienced fellows isnotonly a responsibility buta great privilege, andthe accomplishment of thistask, properly done, canbe a great source of

personal satisfaction to

anyMason. The WindingStaircase itself is asymbol of ascension, of comingup, of matriculating orpassing. It is describedas consisting of acurvedflight of three, five, andseven steps. While

much of the symbolismof theWinding Staircase wasexplained by your guidein the ritual itself, thereare some interestingpoints worthy of furtherexamination.

Three TheologicalVirtues

It should be clear bynow, that the numberthree is highlysignificantin Freemasonry. Thereare three degrees, Three Great Lights,threecolumns, three GrandMasters mentioned in

our ritual, three

principaltenets of Freemasonry(brotherly love, relief,and truth), and threetheological virtues:faith, hope, and charity. These virtues are oftensymbolicallyrepresented as a ladderto heaven, anothersymbol of ascent

and rising. The FourCardinal Virtuespresented in the firstdegreecomplement these inthe sense that the fourare symbolicallyhorizontal(basically dealing withour actions here onearth), while the three

aresymbolically vertical(referring to ascent tofurther light). Masonicaprons are compositeexamples of the threeand the four makingseven,and our aprons have alength-to-width ratio of

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4:3 to remind us of

thosedivine proportions. Thefirst three steps in ourstaircase also representthe three principalofficers of the lodge—the Worshipful Master,thesenior warden, and the junior warden—andthey, in turn,

symbolicallydenote Wisdom,Strength, and Beauty.

Five Orders Of Architecture The five orders of architecture are Doric,Ionic, Corinthian,Tuscan,and Composite. The

Doric, Ionic, andCorinthian were theoriginalorders, or classic forms,of architecture designedby the Greeks. The Tuscan and theComposite areessentially of Romanorigin and are

considered to be only

modifications of theoriginal Greek designs. TheParthenon on theAcropolis, dedicated toAthena, is classicalDoricarchitecture, as is hertemple at Delphi. TheEphesian temple of Diana,

a moon goddess, isIonic. The study of architecture relating totheconstruction of theancient temples,including the Great Temple of Solomon, is interestingfrom both a historic aswell as a Masonic point

of view, as wasexplained by your guidewhen contemplating thefiveorders and their originalderivation. The numberfive also represents thefive physical senses of man’s physical nature:

hearing, seeing,

feeling,smelling, andtasting. It is by way of these five senses thatwe experienceand interact with thephysical world aroundus, with our fellowbeings,and also makeourselves known to our

brother Masons via thefirstthree—hearing, seeing,and feeling. This wasexplained to you ingreaterdetail by your guideduring this degree.

Seven Liberal Artsand Sciences

The seven liberal artsand sciences aregrammar, rhetoric,logic,arithmetic, geometry,music,and astronomy.Of these seven,geometry is

considered by

Freemasons to be of greatest significancebecause it is the basisupon which thesuperstructureof Masonic symbolismand mythos is erected.Without geometry, thegrand architecturalaccomplishments of mankind would not

havebeen built. Greatedifices including theEgyptian pyramids andthecathedrals of Europewere made possible bythe proper applicationof geometry, which isbelieved by many

Masonic historians to bethe true“secret” known tomaster stonemasons of all ages and passeddown fromgeneration togeneration in secretceremonies predatingspeculative

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Masonry by thousands

of years. The other sixliberal arts and sciencesall have their place insociety, each onesupporting the other toforma synergisticenvironment of learningwhere the whole isgreater thanthe sum of its parts.

Grammar supportsrhetoric, which canexpoundon logic, which can beexplained bymathematics andgeometry, whichenabled the astronomerto observe the planetsand stars and socalculate

orbits and partiallydefine our vastuniverse. The modernFreemasonis expected to beconversant with allthese seven skills or atleastappreciate their placein, and many

contributions to,

Masonic life andhuman history.

Grammar – Is one of the triad of skillsdedicated to thecultivationof language. Grammaris that particulardiscipline which rejectsfrom

language all barbarousexpressions and soconstructs andregulatescivilized languageaccording to a fixed andproper formula.Rhetoric – The secondleg of the triad refers tothe properadornment,

embellishment, andrefinement of languageto enable thespeaker to persuade oraffect his listeners. It isthe art of oratory andwas considered anessential skill for theeducated man inancient times

and so was included in

the seven arts andsciences as appropriateto theeducation of a Mason.

Logic – The third leg of the triad is occupiedwith right reasoning,that faculty whichdistinguishes the manof sound mind from the

madman and the fool.Logic is considered anessential skill for theMason so that he mayproperly comprehendhis rights andresponsibilities to thefraternity.

Arithmetic – Is thescience which is

engaged in consideringtheproperties and powersof numbers and which,from its obviousnecessityin the operations of weighing, numbering,and measuring, areskills

indispensable to the

builder and which wetherefore value for theircontributions to ourancient brothers in theirdaily work and theircontinuing usefulnesstoday.

Geometry – Althoughalready partiallyexplained, geometry is

sovital to Freemasonrythat it deserves furtherexamination. Geometryis one of the oldest andmost necessary of sciences. It is thatinfallibleand measurable logicupon which the wholedoctrine of

mathematicsis founded, and is soclosely connected withthe practice of operativemasonry that ourancient brothers wereas often calledgeometricians

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as masons. Plato

thought so highly of geometry that heplaced over theportals of his academythe followinginscription: “Let noneenter who isignorant of geometry.”

Music – Interestingly,music has very often

been called thegeometryof the soul, based as itis on mathematics andphysics. Music isrecommended to theMason because “as theconcords of sweetsoundselevate the generoussentiments of the soul,

so might brothers striveto emulate the harmonyof music and avoid thediscord of unbridledpassions.” The art of music is considered tobe one of the trulymagnificent gifts of theCreator for the benefitof mankind.

Astronomy –Astronomy, and itsolder sibling astrology,is thatscience which instructsus in the physical lawswhich govern ouruniverse. Astronomy, of course, owes much togeometry, withoutwhich

the measurements of diurnal patterns,planetary rotations andorbits,spatial relationships,and all the othernecessities of astronomicalobservation andcalculation would not beremotely possible. The

manypractical benefits of geometry in relation tomankind in general andtheFreemasons inparticular wereexpounded upon by themaster during the

closing ceremonies of

the second degree.

ADMISSION TO THEMIDDLE CHAMBERIn the Fellow Craftdegree, the seniordeacon leads thecandidate fromthe outer porch and upthe Winding Staircase of wisdom and knowledge,

showing him firsthandthe path by which hisless-noble passionsare transcended. Oncethe candidate hassymbolically masteredhisintellectual faculties,represented by thethree first steps, thesymbolismof the number five, andthe seven liberal artsand sciences, he arrivesat the symbolicentrance to the MiddleChamber of KingSolomon’s

Temple, where tradition

held that the FellowCraft stone masons heldtheir meetings andreceived their wages,finally prepared tomove fromthe outer door to theinner chamber, from thecircumference of hiswhole being to his owninner spiritual center—

his heart.

WAGES OF AFELLOW CRAFTMASONCorn, wine, and oil arethe symbolic wagesearned by the FellowCraft Mason who, whenproperly tested and

vouched for, arrives attheMiddle Chamber. Cornrepresents nourishmentand the sustenance of life. It is also a symbolof plenty and refers tothe opportunity fordoing

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good, working for the

community, andperforming service tomankind. The corn referred to inthis degree is actuallywhat we would identifytoday as wheat. Wine issymbolic of refreshment, health,and peace. Oilrepresents spirituality,

joy, gladness, andhappiness. Takentogether, corn,wine, and oil representthe potential rewards of living a good Masoniclife and performinghonest labor in theservice of God andone’s family,community, and

country. The actual “wages” of the modern-dayFreemason are theintangible,but no less real,compensation forfaithful and intelligentuse of one’s

working tools, fidelity to

one’s obligations, andunflagging interest inand study of thestructure, purpose, andpossibilities of thefraternity.Such wages may alsobe defined in terms of adeeper understandingof brotherhood, a clearer

conception of ethicalliving, an increasedrespectfor others and theirpoint of view, and amore resolute will tothink andact justly,independently, andhonestly, on the level,by the square, and by

the plumb!

THE THREEPRECIOUS JEWELS The three precious jewels of a Fellow CraftMason—the attentiveear, the

instructive tongue, and

the faithful breast—allremind the newly madecraftsmanthat the time-honoredand valuable method of instruction is one onone, master to student,by word of mouth to theear of the student, andalways held in strictconfidence from the

profane and the cowen. The jewels also signify thenecessity to learn andapply Masonicinstruction,and to develop alifelong devotion to theteachings of the craftand todemonstrate those

teachings outside thelodge.

THE MASONICLETTER “G”In the Fellow Craftdegree, the candidate isinformed that the letter

“G” is the initial of

geometry as well as theinitial of the name of theSupreme Being. Fromthe time of the oldcharges andmanuscripts up tothe present, thesynonymous nature of geometry and Masonryis clearly

stated. It is also obviousthat “G” is the initial of the word God in theEnglish language, andyou will not find theletter “G” accorded thesameparticular veneration inMasonic jurisdictionswhere English is not theprincipal language.

NUMBER, ORDER,SYMMETRY, ANDPROPORTION The great teachings of the Fellow Craft degreerevolve around theimportance of theMasonic study of

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numbers, order,

symmetry, and proportion. The Masonic use of theterm geometry includesall of these. The ancientphilosophers consideredgeometry to have thepower to lead the mindfrom the world of outward appearances tocontemplation of the

divineorder. It was alsobelieved that the sevenliberal arts, properlyappliedand understood, hadthe power to liberatethe mind from materialattachment. Properproportion is veryimportant in

architecture, andsome of the mostbeautiful buildings of antiquity were designedandconstructed usingproportional formulaewhich have not beenimproved

upon to this day. The

Parthenon in Athens,Greece, is an excellentexample of properproportion and the useof symmetry to achieveabeautiful design.

DUTIES, RIGHTS,ANDRESPONSIBILITIESOF A FELLOW CRAFTMASONIn addition to theseveral rights youacquired as an EnteredApprenticeMason, you now, as anewly passed FellowCraft Mason, have theright

to sit in any lodge whenopened in the seconddegree, if accompaniedby a Master Mason whohas sat in lodge withyou previously and cantherefore vouch for yourMasonic credentials.

You may also visit

anotherlodge opened in theFellow Craft or lowerdegree under the sameconditions as above. You have the right to beinstructed andexamined,and when foundproficient, you mayrequest advancement

to the sublimedegree of MasterMason. The particular andspecific responsibilitiesof a Fellow Craft Masonarefound in part in yourobligation, and youshould carefully reviewthese

along with your former(and still binding)obligation of an EnteredApprentice. Finally, youare reminded that youare to acquire thespecialknowledge introducedin this degree and seekto apply that knowledge

to your duties in life so

you can occupy yourplace in general as wellasin Masonic society withsatisfaction and honorto yourself and to thefraternity.

FELLOWCRAFT LIST OF

HANDOUTMATERIALSSHEET FC - 1

The Plumb, the Level, andthe Square

SHEET FC - 2

Pictorial Representation of the Flight of Winding Stairs,

Orders of Architecture, theFive Senses, and the Seven

Liberal Arts and Sciences

SHEET FC - 3Explanatory Text (from

Tried and Proven)

SHEET FC - 4

Outline of Fellow CraftCharge

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SHEET FC - 5Vocabulary List for Fellow

Craft Degree

SHEET FC 1

THE PLUMB,THE LEVEL AND

THE SQUAREThere is a close

relationship

between thesethree tools. Boththe tools

themselves andthis

interrelationshipprovide an endless source of

symbolic application.It should be noted that both

the operative plumb andlevel, as depicted in the

Masonic representations,depend upon the force of gravity for their operation.

(If this is not clear, ask yourinstructor to explain.) The

symbolic level and plumbare also dependent upon a

universal principle, in thiscase, that Divine and moral

purpose which Freemasons

believe pervades the wholeuniverse. The square is

closely associated with boththe level and the plumb. Its

significance lies in providingthe builder a means of

testing that perfectrelationship which existsbetween the horizontal and

the perpendicular.

The Plumb The plumb as asymbol appears in the Old

Testament (see Amos 7: 78).The symbolic meaning of

the plumb in the Book of Amos is one of judgment: a

judgment of uprightness.Such a judgment may

appear straightforward,but, as in all such situations

which involve thecomplexities of life. The

judging of uprightness in

both ourselves and in othersis never a simple operation.

A man must judge himself and, in turn, be judged by

others according to the mostupright principles that he

knows. Freemasonry teachesthat while an uprightness of

character is a deeplypersonal matter, there are

outward standards of conduct which involve the

tenets of our profession asmasons and the cardinal

virtues of temperance,fortitude, prudence, and

justice. It is to thesestandards of rectitude thateach mason must compare

his conduct when applyingthe plumb to test the course

of his actions and the valueof his opinions.

The Level The level is a

symbol of equality. Againthe mason must consider

what is implied when wespeak of equality and

employ the symbol of thelevel. What is the basis for

the concept of humanequality of which

Freemasons speak and upon

which they endeavor to basetheir dealing with other

human beings? Certainly itis not a naive assumption

that all humans are bornwith equal potentials for

that equality can be assuredby taking the, awards from

those who achieve givingthem to non-achievers. The

Masonic concept of equalityis based upon recognition of

the inherent dignity andworth of all human beings

as individuals and asmembers of the human

family as created by God.Equality thus involves notonly the right to equal

opportunity but the right togenuine respect for all based

upon "the internal and notthe external qualifications."

The equality of the leveltranscends any supposed

differences of race, gender,ability, honors, or material

acquisitions.

The Square Of all thesymbols prominent in the

teachings of Freemasonry,none is more ancient or

widespread in its common

use than the square. Yet forall its use, what is the

meaning of the symbolicsquare? To say that the

square symbolizes honestyin thought and conduct is

only to introduce themeaning of the square. To

reiterate that, the 'symbolicsquare is linked closely to

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the level and the plumb isonly to suggest its

implications. "To act uponthe square" is a phrase

which involves the wholemeaning of being a

Freemason. To constantlybe aware that each act, eachthought, and each impulse

should be tested for its truerelationship to our purpose

as masons is the properapplication of the moral and

symbolic square,. To "try"with a square is a fine old

word meaning a repeatedapplication of that

instrument to see if one isachieving the "right angle"

relationships intended. To"try" our lives, thoughts

and actions by the symbolicsquare is to test how closely

we are living to the

principles symbolized by theplumb and the level and

which are given voice in themoral teachings of

Freemasonry.

There is a very old sayingamong masons that in

parting each other’scompany, they do so "on the

square." Though theydepart in many directions,

they take with them thatsymbolic instrument which

will assure that their actionswill be a continuation of a

common purpose as buildersof well-being and that theyshall return in proper

relationship to the intentionsof the Grand Architect.

Note: For furtherconsideration of the plumb,

level and square ask yourinstructor for references to

the many sources on thissubject.

SHEET FC 2

SHEET FC 3THE FELLOW CRAFT

DEGREE SOMETHOUGHTS FOR

CONSIDERATIONMasonic thinkers often

point out that the threedegrees of Ancient CraftMasonry, the Entered

Apprentice, Fellow Craft,and Master Mason Degrees,

can be associated with

man's passage through life:youth, manhood, and age. Insuch a view, the Fellow

Craft represents adulthood.

1. Does adulthood meanhaving lived through a

certain number of years ordoes it represent a condition

in which a man has becomeacquainted with the

realities, the responsibilities,the disillusionments, and therewarding challenges of life?

A Fellow Craft, as our ritualdescribes him, is a hewer in

the mountains, a manlaboring in the midst of life

and being put to the test of whether he shall be proven

adequate. As an adult his

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life is in the balance. Will hefind in life's experience a joy

and reward or defeat anddrudgery?

2. Experience and

education are two importantcontributors to the state of adulthood. Through his

senses and contact with lifearound him, man learns the

lessons of experience.Through education, a man's

awareness andunderstanding are greatly

extended by means of theexperience of others. A

Fellow Craft will recall thatboth experience and

education are principalconcerns in this Degree, and

that there is a third concerntoward which the progress

of that degree continually

travels that concern is thequest for wisdom.

3. Experience brings us into

direct contact with life;education expands our

knowledge andcompetencies, but there is a

greater and essentialelement. To make

meaningful the variedexperiences which come our

way, to see ourselves andothers in a fair perspective,

to feel that our lives have ameaning associated with

that which is far greaterthan ourselves, involveswisdom.

4. If a man is to acquire

wisdom, it is by a windingand upward climb and

arduous progress involvingcaring and sacrifices,

knowledge andunderstanding, faith and

communion.

5. In adulthood it will bemade evident whether a

man has discovered forhimself that "pass" which

will admit him into the

Middle Chamber where thesource of wisdom and

universal meaning dwellsand there he will receive the

wages of joy and fulfillment.For further discussion see

the Masonic ServiceAssociation's Tried and

Proven.

SHEET FC 4

OUTLINE OF FELLOWCRAFT CHARGE

• The internal not theexternal

qualifications.

• Adherence to duties

and the value of these duties.

• Laws and

Regulations to bestrenuously

supported.

• You are to judgewith candor,admonish with

friendship, andreprehend with

justice.

• The great value of

the liberal arts.

• Geometry and the

demonstration of theproperties of nature

and the truths of morality.

• VI Expectations

placed upon the newFellow Craft.

PROFICIENCY AND

ADVANCEMENTPrior to advancement to theMaster Mason degree, everyMason must be able to answer certain questions and reach arequiredlevel of proficiency in thework of the Fellow Craftdegree. The current

proficiency requirements will be explained in detail by themaster, your candidate’s coach, Masonicmentor or Masonic Formationteam member.Good luck. We look forwardto raising you to the sublimedegree of Master Mason in the very near future.Candidate’s Questions

1) In the Fellow Craft, what does theterm “passed” refer to?

a) Being promoted to the nextdegree

b) Having advanced anachievementc) The act of passing througha long aisleway or porch2) What are the principal working toolsof a Fellow Craft Mason?

a) Wine, corn, and oil b) Square, plumb, and level

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c) Twenty-four-inch gauge,square, and compass

3) What makes a lodge “just andlegally constituted?”

a) All the working tools of this degree are present

b) If the Three Great Lights of Masonry are properlydisplayed on the altar c) If the Three Great Lights of Masonry are properlydisplayed onthe altar and the charter of thelodge is present in the lodge

4) The two pillars represented in thelodge are named:

a) Boaz and Naphtali b) Jachin and Boazc) Jachin and Hiram

5) Who gives the Staircase Lecture?

a) Master b) Acting master c) Senior deacon

d) Junior deacon

6) What are the three theologicalvirtues of this degree?

a) Brotherly love, relief, andtruth

b) Faith, hope, and charityc) The Three Great Lights of Masonry

7) What are the five orders of architecture esteemed by the Masons?

a) Diana, Venus, Jupiter,Saturn, and Doric

b) Doric, Ionic, Corinthian,Tuscan, and Compositec) Parthenon, Athena, Doric,Ionic, and Tuscan

8) What are the three precious jewelsof a Fellow Craft Mason?

a) Brotherly love, relief, andtruth

b) Corn, wine, and oil

c) Attentive ear, instructivetongue, and faithful breast

9) What are the symbolic wages of aFellow Craft Mason?

a) Wine, corn, oil b) Wheat, barley, winec) Corn, oil, barley

10) What liberal science is mostimportant to Masons?

a) Astronomy b) Logic

c) Geometry

ESSAY QUESTION:Briefly describe the symbolic meaningof the Pillars and the Porchas it relates to the degree:

GLOSSARY

ADMONISH - to caution,advise, or counsel against; toexpress warningor disapproval; to givefriendly, earnest advice andencouragement.ARTIFICER - a skilled or artistic worker or craftsman;one who makes

beautiful objects.BENEFICENT - doing or

producing well.BOURNE - boundaries; limits.

BRAZEN - made of brass.CANDOR - freedom from

bias, prejudice, or malice;fairness; impartiality.CAPITAL - the uppermost

part of a column.CHAPITER - an alternate, andearlier, form of the wordcapital.COLUMN - a supporting pillar consisting of a base, a

cylindrical shaft,and a capital.COMPOSITE - one of the fiveorders of architecturedeveloped late in theRoman period as an enrichedversion of the Corinthian thatcombinesthe Corinthian and Ionicstyles.

CONFLAGRATION - fire,especially a large, disastrousfire.CONTEMPLATE - to look atattentively and thoughtfully;to consider carefully.CONTRIVE - to devise; to

plan; to invent or build in anartistic or ingenious manner.CORINTHIAN - one of thethree classical (Greek) orders

of architecture—the mostornamented of the three.Originated in the cityof Corinth in Greece.CUBIT - an ancient unit of linear measure, approximately18 inches intoday’s measure.DEPRESSED - underneath;lower than its surroundings.

DISCERNING - showinginsight and understanding;excellent judgment.DISPERSED - scattered;spread widely.DIURNAL - recurring everyday; having a daily cycle.DORIC - one of the threeclassical (Greek) orders of architecture—the

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oldest and simplest of thethree, originated in an area of ancient Greeceknown as Doris.EDIFICE - a building,especially one of imposingappearance or size.EPHRAIMITES - members of one of the 12 tribes of Israel,descendedfrom Ephraim, one of the sonsof Jacob.HOMAGE - respect or

reverence paid or rendered;expression of highregard.INJUNCTION - an order or requirement placed uponsomeone by asuperior.INUNDATION - to overflowwith water; a flood.IONIC - one of the threeclassical (Greek) orders of

architecture,originated in an area of ancient Greece known asIonia.JUDICIOUS - having,exercising, or characterized

by sound judgment;discrete; wise.

NAPHTALI - one of the sonsof Jacob, brother of Joseph,and a founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel.NOVITIATE - a beginner; anovice.PALLIATE - to try to concealthe seriousness of an offense

by excuses andapologies; to moderate theintensity of; to reduce theseriousness of; to

relieve or lessen withoutcuring.24 CANDIDATE GUIDE FELLOW CRAFT 25

PILASTER - an uprightarchitectural member that isrectangular in planand is structurally a pier, butis architecturally treated as acolumn; itusually projects a third of itswidth or less from the wall.

POMMEL - a ball or knob.REPREHEND - to voicedisapproval of; to express anattitude of unhappiness and disgust.SALUTARY - producing a

beneficial effect; remedial; promoting health;curative; wholesome.

SEVERALLY - one at a time;each by itself; separately;independently.SUMMONS - a written noticeissued for an especiallyimportant meetingof a lodge; the written noticeor requirement by authority toappear at a

place named.SUPERFICE - a geometricalobject which is of twodimensions and exists

in a single plane.SUPERSTRUCTURE -

anything based on, or risingfrom, somefoundation or basis; an entity,concept, or complex based ona morefundamental one.TUSCAN - one of the fiveorders of architecture,originated in Tuscany, a

region of central Italy.UNDISCOVEREDCOUNTRY FROMWHOSE BOURNE NOTRAVELER

RETURNS - that whichlies beyond death; theafterlife. FromShakespeare, Hamlet:Act III, Scene 1.

VICISSITUDES - thesuccessive, alternating,or changing phases orconditions of life orfortune; ups and downs;the difficulties of life;difficulties or hardshipswhich are part of a wayof life or career.26 CANDIDATE GUIDE

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Fellowcraft 1