Are there secrets in Masonic Symbols?


Perhaps, but if our symbols contain Freemasons secrets why are they plastered all over our buildings? Why do we proudly display them on our vehicles, in our homes, on our clothing, on our jewelry?

The truth is there is no great mystery in the symbols of Freemasonry. They are simple working tools used as allegories for moral teachings. The plumb is used to erect a structure that stands upright and true. The square when used properly ensures that two angles brought together bring equitable strength to the structure. The use of the level ensures that the whole rests upon a solid foundation and that no one structural member bears excessive pressure. The Masonic lambskin apron symbolizes the way Freemasons choose to live their life, in service to others and with purity of intent. These tools could be used in a variety of ways, and they are endued with a variety of moral qualities. There are other tools and other teachings, but the simple truth is they are just symbols. They are not secrets.

What About the Secret Masonic Handshakes, Signs, and Passwords?


Yes, these are secret, but why are they secret? The hand grips are simple modes of recognition. The signs and passwords are used primarily as part of our Masonic ritual. They are not keys to some ancient and arcane knowledge. If a man were to learn all the signs, grips, and words it would still not be enough to gain him entrance into a Lodge meeting. Even if he should manage to pass himself off as a Mason and gain entrance into a meeting he would simply come away confused, not enlightened. Without understanding, the observation of an act carries little meaning. It would be like watching a National Geographic presentation on primitive tribal customs with the sound turned off. Without knowledge and understanding of what they are doing, and why, it just would not make sense.

So, why are these things considered Freemasons secrets? One word - honor. Every man who has become a Mason has taken upon himself a promise that he would keep these, as well as other things, secret. It is not a matter of secrecy, or privilege, or exclusivity, or even privacy; it is plainly and simply a matter of personal honor. Masons are men of honor and good character; promises made are promises kept.

What About the Secret Masonic Rituals?


Yes, Masonic ritual does contain many Freemason secrets. They are secrets that come under the same promise of personal honor that each Mason takes upon himself. We use our ritual as a means to explain, educate, and impart knowledge to the candidate and to Brethren who seek to learn more.

Are all of these rituals truly secret? Apparently not:

For nearly three centuries, maybe longer, men have been "exposing" the secrets and mysteries of the Freemasons, and they continue to do so today. After nearly three hundred years of exposure, surely there is nothing more to be seen. And yet, there is more.

The rituals of the Freemasons indeed contain Masonic secrets; this much is true. However, as any Mason who has traveled and attended Lodge in another states or countries can attest, the ritual varies from one to another.  The teachings are the same; the impressions intended to be made upon the candidate are the same, but the varying ritual is only similar.  Surely, no real secret can be kept in varying forms.

The true secrets of the Freemasons are just that: intimate moments, shared emotions, secret longings, and private beliefs between men who have formed a bond through a fraternity that supports and strengthens them through its teachings. Men from all walks of life and from disparate backgrounds come together in Masonry and call each other Brother. Some of those men truly become like brothers. They form trusting and resilient friendships. They share life's trials and tribulations. They accept and are accepted. And, along the way secrets are made and secrets are shared and secrets are kept. Thus is life. That is the truth of the Freemasons secrets.

One Final Point:

No true Freemason can or will publicly disclose the secret knowledge that he has sworn to withold from public domains. As stated, it is a matter of personal honor. However, this does not mean that an in-depth and comprehensive study of the symbols, secrets, and significance of the order is discouraged. By all means, we should all continue to strive for more knowledge, deeper understanding, and more light.