Test your Masonic knowledge
How many degrees are there in "Blue Lodge" Freemasonry?
Three. Blue Lodge Freemasonry does not include the side degrees or the symbolic "higher degrees".
Who is the head of Freemasonry?
There is no "head of Freemasonry". Each Grand Lodge is independent and sovereign. The elected Grand Master for a particular Grand Lodge is the Head of his particular constitution for an allotted period of time.
Which historical temple plays a significant role in the teachings and rituals of Freemasonry?
King Solomon's Temple.
What is modern Freemasonry referred to as? It is no longer Operative, it is ....
Speculative.
Does Freemasonry follow or advance a particular religion?
No. Though Freemasonry is religious is nature, and requires belief in a Supreme Being, it is not doctrinal and imposes no particular religion on its members. Tolerance is encouraged amongst its members and the discussion of religion is, in fact, forbidden in Lodge.
Is Freemasonry a political organization?
No. Freemasonry does not take a stance in politics or affairs of the State. Though members are required to be loyal citizens of their Country, and to lawfully abide by its rules, it does not align itself with any particular political party and, much like religion, discussion of politics is forbidden in Lodge.
In what year was the original Constitution, written by Bro. Anderson, first published?
1722. Although the United Grand Lodge of England was first formed in 1717, Anderson's Constitution was first published in 1722.
Why are Craft Lodges also known as Blue Lodges?
The blue refers to the blue and starry canopy or firmament on the roof of a Craft Lodge and, in Masonry, blue "indicates universal brotherhood and instructs us that those virtues should be as extensive as the blue arch of heaven itself." (Coil's Masonic Encyclopaedia).
Who was the first elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England?
George Payne was elected Grant Master of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717.
Is it true that Freemasons "Ride the Goat"?
No, not literally. "Riding the goat" is a symbolic or figurative allusion in which the "devil" is represented by the goat and by "riding" the goat, the Freemason is "overcoming" or "mastering" the "devil". No actual goats have any part in a Masonic ceremony or ritual.
At what symbolic time does a Masonic Lodge start its labours?
At 12 noon.
At what symbolic time does a Masonic Lodge end its labours?
At 12 midnight.
Is Freemasonry a Charitable or Benefit Society?
No. Though Freemasonry does support many Charitable causes, and Masons are encouraged to provide relief where they can, Freemasonry is not a Charitable or a Benefit Society. Freemasonry is a fraternal organization consisting of men who are desirous of improving their intellectual capacity, moral code of conduct and spiritual well-being.
Does Freemasonry require that its members believe in an Afterlife?
Yes - the belief in the Immortality of the Soul and an Afterlife is one of the landmark tenets of Freemasonry and belief of such is required of all its members.
What are the names of the three Craft degrees?
Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft and Master Mason.