Page 35 - Ashlar April - June 2025

N A L G R
I O
G E AND LODGE
The Ashlar R Vol. XX Issue I
Bulletin-I
Covid-19
s o c i a l a n i m a l . B i o l o g i c a l l y a n d assembly of masons more than the place
acknowledging the theory of evolution where it is held. In ancient times operative
disregarding theory of creationwe are bound masons engaged in the construction of
to link our ancestry to animal kingdom. When superb edifices like cathedrals, temples,
the famous Irish author and drama writer churches and palaces used to assemble in a
George Bernard Shah described an unrefined small place or tent adjacent to the building
individual as an animal walking on two legs, it under construction finishing their day’s
was applicable to the unrestrained and labourto refresh and deliberate their
callous behavior by instincts rather than workings. That is the tradition of the lodge. It
guided by humane values. A modern scientist should, however be remembered that while
has made a profound statement, “it is good for Freemasonry is taught in the meetings held in
us to see that the animal within us dies, so that the lodge, Freemasonry is practiced by
man within us can live”. Aim of freemasonry is brethren at any place or time through out the
to make us more humane and compassionate day enhancing their character.
to appreciate the value of life. Through rituals and readings, the
Freemasonry teaches us values to enable us Freemasons obtain the tools and knowledge
to transform to better persons. The cardinal that equip them with vitues and go forth in
principles/tenets of Freemasonry, Truth, their quest to achieve perfection by means of
Relief and Brotherly Love imparted in the searching for the truth. In Freemasonry, the
teachings explained through the rituals and legend of Solomon’s Temple at Jerusalem
ceremonies are noble virtues enhancing the plays an instructive role to enlighten the
spiritual standards of life. Adhering to the brethren. HiramAbiff , the chief architect of the
principles and practicing them in daily life can Temple (tenth century B.C.) organized his
transform the individual to a more orderly life employees into three groupsie.,apprentices,
of contentment, peace and harmony. When fellows and masters. Certain initiation rituals
these attributes are reaped in daily life, the of the first three degrees are connected with
individual transforms and radiates with the the construction of the Holy Temple at
angelic aura of bliss, grace and gladness. Jerusalem and the workers engaged in the
In Freemasonry Brotherhood plays an construction yearning for progress and better
important role in daily life. Every freemason is position..
well aware of the Five Points of fellowship. SCOTTISH RITE: It has 33 degrees and is the
The obligation of the candidate in the third most common in practice in Europe and Latin
degree may be recollected in this regard at America.it is derived from a system that was
this juncture. The candidate while obligating practiced in France during the Eighteenth
pledge, “I further solemnly engagemyself to Century. From the basic three degrees of
maintain and uphold the F.P.O.F in act as well Craft, it climbs and reaches the pinnacle of the
as in word. To recapitulate,, ”to your neighbor, 33* which entitles to become supreme the
by acting with him on the square, by rendering Sovereign Grand Inspector General.
him every kind of office which justice or mercy YORK RITE: It has only 13 degrees, and is
may require, by relieving his necessities and most popular and followed in North America.
soothing his afflictions , and by doing to him , Its origin can be attributed to the British Upper
as in similar cases , you would wish he would Degrees which were later encoded in the U S
do to you.” A .the rite then extended across Europe.
The basic functioning unit of Freemasonry is Although there are differences between the
known as the LODGE. It is in the lodge the two rites both respect and acknowledge the
tenets and principles of Freemasonry are first three degrees ;,entered apprentice,
imparted to enlighten the brethren and fellow craft and master mason the basic step
educate the candidates. A lodge signifies an stone degrees in Freemasonry.

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