Fellowcraft Study Guide

Blaine 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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Fellowcraft Study Guide
Blaine C. Clay Instruction
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction 1
Passed 2
Symbolism of the 2° Degree
2 ongratulations
Duly and Truly Prepared
Once Again 3
A Just and Legally
Constituted Lodge 3
The Working Tools of a Fellow
Craft Mason 4
The Apron of the Fellow Craft
Mason 5
The Pillars and the Porch 5
The Winding Staircase and
The Lecture 6
Three Theological Virtues 6
Five Orders of Architecture 7
Seven Liberal Arts and
Sciences 8
Admission to the Middle
Chamber 10
Wages of a Fellow Craft
Mason 10
The Three Precious Jewels 10
The Masonic Letter “G” 11
Numbers, Order, Symmetry,
and Proportion 11
Duties, Rights, and
Responsibilities of a Fellow
Craft Mason 11
Proficiency and Advancement
12
Glossary 17
FELLOW CRAFT
CANDIDATE GUIDE
1
C
Many Masons believe Masonic lectures,
that the second degree William Preston saw
(degree of the Freemasonry as a
Fellow Craft) is the most means
beautiful and moving, if to educate men in the
on your preferment and not the liberal arts and sciences
your most enlightening, of in order to better
advancement to the the Masonic degree mankind. Fellow Craft
Masonic degree of a trilogy. There are Masons of today are
Fellow of several ways the also urged to advance
the Craft or Fellow meaning of the Fellow and appreciate their
Craft. The Fellow Craft Craft degree and its education in these
degree place between the first fields during the ritual
you have just and third degrees of of
experienced embodies Masonry have been this degree.
explained over the Some view the three-
a great deal of
knowledge years. In one sense, the degree system of
and wisdom. Its Fellow Craft degree ancient craft Masonry
symbols and lessons symbolizes the period as representing a
can take a lifetime to of adulthood and progressive science
fully appreciate. This responsibility during a directed toward
Fellow Craft handbook man’s life on earth, perfecting
should be following youth and man’s basic nature. It is
studied carefully, as it preceding old age. In a view of human nature
reviews much of the this stage, man’s task is divided into
ritual associated to acquire knowledge the three parts of body,
with this degree in and apply it to the mind, and soul. In this
order to help you, the building and refining of view, each
newly passed his moral character and degree addresses and
Fellow Craft Mason, to to improve the instructs one part of
better understand and society in which he that Masonic trinity.
benefit from lives. As the principal
this unique experience. author of our modern
Fellowcraft Study Guide
Blaine C. Clay Instruction

The first degree A candidate, upon orientation to the light, the Three Great Lights,
encompasses the body receiving the second which we
and the faculties of degree of Masonry, is are all consistent with deepen our connection
physical action; the said to initiation into the with the fraternity and
Four Cardinal Virtues have been “passed to fraternity. The second take on additional,
are extolled as the the degree of Fellow degree more
INTRODUCTION Craft.” The term passed of Fellow Craft difficult commitments
proper guides to action alludes symbolizes the methods and responsibilities.
in the world that we to the physical act of of developing the mind The working tools of a
may perfect our the candidate’s passing and Fellow Craft Mason—the
relationship to it. The through a long progressing in the craft plumb, the square,
second degree aisleway, or and, in a larger sense, and the level—are now
addresses the mind and porch, on his way to a the emergence into applicable to these new
its place representing the symbolic manhood, tasks and
faculties; the candidate middle chamber of King maturity, and its responsibilities.
is instructed in the Solomon’s Temple, commensurate With them we try,
seven liberal arts and where ancient tradition responsibilities. square, and prove. With
sciences, which were holds that Fellow Crafts Therefore, we find them we learn to
formulated hundreds of were paid their wages symbols of develop the
years ago in order and had their names advancement, passage, faculty of judgment: to
to develop and perfect recorded. instruction, and ascertain what is
man’s mental faculties elevation throughout valuable, what is true,
in preparation for SYMBOLISM OF THE this degree: the taking and what
comprehending the of the “next step” and a is real.
final mysteries of our
2 ˚ (DEGREE OF THE new way of approaching The central theme of
spiritual truth, which FELLOW OF THE the east, for example. this degree being one of
are exemplified in the CRAFT) What was considered advancement, we are
third and final degree of The symbolism of the in the previous degree presented with the
blue Entered Apprentice to be our weaker nature symbol of the Winding
lodge Masonry. degree emphasizes has now been squared Staircase, consisting of
beginnings, the first and elevated. While three,
PASSED steps, youth, and keeping our fidelity to

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five, and seven steps, to hear the teachings of The changes in dress specific admonition to
all leading to a place our from an Entered always
representing the Middle fraternity and keep Apprentice Mason to a act by the square of
Chamber of King them close to our Fellow virtue.
Solomon’s Temple. faithful heart. Finally, Craft Mason have been
Staircases, ladders, we are explained in the A JUST AND
extended reminded of the central ceremony. Gaining
vertical ropes, and spiritual focus of admission
LEGALLY
mountains are all Freemasonry by the is similar to the first CONSTITUTED
symbols of ascending to symbolism degree, with the LODGE
new of the letter “G” and the addition of the added A lodge of Masons is
heights, or levels. humility, awe, and benefit of a considered just if the
Gaining entrance to a reverence it should pass (password), which Three Great Lights of
new place symbolizes a inspire in is given to him by his Masonry are properly
distinct all Masons. guide. displayed upon the
advancement in our We are trying to altar. For a lodge of
work as Freemasons. DULY AND TRULY demonstrate that Masons to
Attaining this level knowledge and energy be legally constituted
gives us
PREPARED ONCE are freely means that the charter
access to certain AGAIN given toward gaining of the lodge, issued and
benefits to which we At the outset of this the privileges, or more sealed
were not heretofore degree, it should be properly called “the by the Grand Lodge
entitled. clear to the candidate rights under which the lodge
These benefits are best that and benefits,” of is beholden, is
symbolized by the although much of the Freemasonry, and that displayed
“wages” of a Fellow ritual seems familiar, it only by the aid of others and thus authorizes the
Craft is also very different, we are lodge to be working, in
Mason—corn, wine, and and able to, ourselves, other words, conducting
oil. There are other some aspects might advance. Your method proper Masonic
benefits granted here even seem to be in of reception into the business.
as opposition to the lodge
well. We become previous degree. room was also familiar,
invested with the ability yet different in its

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Fellowcraft Study Guide
Blaine C. Clay Instruction

THE WORKING the plumb is a symbol stone masons to will be guided according
TOOLS OF A of moral “square” their work to to the
rectitude, of what is true with angle of the square
FELLOW CRAFT uprightness of conduct, respect to (which means in the
MASON of living an ethical and the foundation and the right direction), until we
The principal working “good” life, cornerstone of the meet again.
tools of a Fellow Craft and of acting on the building. To the
Mason are the straight and narrow speculative The Level – The level is
plumb, the square, and path of truth, justice, Freemason, the square an instrument made
the level. You will notice and mercy. is the symbol of use of by operative
that these same By living such a life, we morality, truthfulness, stone
three instruments are are thereby a greater and masons to prove or
also the jewels of office benefit to the fraternity, honesty. The direction determine horizontals.
of the three principal to of the two sides of the To the speculative
lodge officers—the those around us, and to square form an angle of Freemason,
Worshipful Master, the all of society. 90°, or a right angle, so the level is a symbol of
senior warden, and the Freemasons are called because this is equality. Each person is
junior warden. charged (required) the angle which stones endowed with worth
to “act by the plumb” in must have if they are to and dignity which is
The Plumb –The plumb their dealings with their be used to build a truly spiritual, and
is an instrument made brother Masons and stable and upright wall. should not therefore be
use of by operative with It subject
stone masons to try all others, placing symbolizes accuracy, to man-made
perpendiculars and to fairness and honest not varying by even a distinctions. Masonry
see that the rising dealing above personal single degree. When recognizes that one
courses of gain and Masons man may have
the stone walls are true profit. “part upon the square,” greater potential in life,
to the cornerstone and we may travel in service, or reward than
to the center of the The Square – The different directions, but another; but we also
earth. square is an instrument with full believe that any man
To the speculative made use of by knowledge that our can aspire to any
Freemason, however, operative various courses in life height, no matter how
great. Thus,

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the level dignifies lambskin apron is remember that his without power is futility.
physical as well as symbolic of the fact that actions and deportment Man
mental labor and the he is now considered by may very well be those must have both power
man who his brothers to be a upon and control if his life is
performs it. The level qualified worker, or which the whole of to be successful. These
also symbolizes the hewer, in the forests Freemasonry is judged. two great pillars were
passage of time, which, and in designed and cast by
in the the quarries and no THE PILLARS AND Hiram Abiff, a widow’s
final analysis, will level longer a mere son
us all when we are at apprentice and bearer
THE PORCH from the tribe of
Two great bronze pillars
last called from earthly of burdens Naphtali (I Kings 7:13–
which were placed at
labor with little or no 14). The globes on the
the entrance to King
to face the Supreme responsibility. The same capitals
Solomon’s Temple and
Being and have our thing applies to your of the columns are
are now symbolically
life’s work reviewed. method said to represent the
represented within
Masons are of pedal advancement celestial and terrestrial
every
encouraged to “meet and the tokens, grips, spheres
Masonic lodge are
on the level” with their signs, and modes of of heaven and earth.
called Boaz and Jachin,
Masonic fellows and recognition conferred The two pillars also
respectively. These
with all upon you during the correspond to the Three
pillars
others as they journey ritual of your passing Great
are symbolic of strength
through this world from Supports of Masonry—
and establishment—and
together, realizing that, Entered Apprentice to Wisdom, Strength, and
by implication, power
in His Fellow Craft Mason. Beauty. The columns of
and control. One must
eyes, we are all equal. Since there is now little wisdom and strength
remember that power
to distinguish the Fellow are emblematically
and control are placed
THE APRON OF THE Craft from a Master represented by the
before you, so that you
Mason, at least in his pillars in the
FELLOW CRAFT manner of ritual dress,
might come to realize
south and north,
MASON it is important for the
that power without
respectively, and the
The manner in which a control
newly passed Fellow candidate, as he is
Fellow Craft Mason is is anarchy, or
Craft to brought into
taught to wear his conversely, that control

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Blaine C. Clay Instruction

the lodge, is caused to to guide and educate personal satisfaction to our ritual, three
represent the third his less-knowledgeable any principal
column—that of beauty, brother in the ways of Mason. The Winding tenets of Freemasonry
or the Staircase itself is a (brotherly love, relief,
balance—three legs craft. Taking symbol of ascension, of and truth), and three
being infinitely more responsibility for coming theological virtues:
stable than two. teaching the younger, up, of matriculating or faith, hope, and charity.
less-experienced passing. It is described These virtues are often
Masons is vital to the as consisting of a symbolically
survival of the curved represented as a ladder
THE WINDING fraternity, and whereas flight of three, five, and to heaven, another
STAIRCASE the greater seven steps. While symbol of ascent
AND THE LECTURE responsibility rests with much of the symbolism and rising. The Four
The Staircase Lecture is the Master Masons of a of the Cardinal Virtues
unique in the blue lodge lodge, Fellow Crafts as Winding Staircase was presented in the first
trilogy of degrees well are expected to explained by your guide degree
because it is given not assist in the education in the ritual itself, there complement these in
by the master or acting and mentoring of are some interesting the sense that the four
master as was the Entered points worthy of further are symbolically
lecture of Apprentices when the examination. horizontal
the preceding degree, opportunity arises. (basically dealing with
but by the senior Every Mason should Three Theological our actions here on
deacon, acting as a realize Virtues earth), while the three
personal guide that teaching the craft It should be clear by are
and mentor to the to our younger or less- now, that the number symbolically vertical
candidate. In this role, experienced fellows is three is highly (referring to ascent to
the senior deacon not significant further light). Masonic
emulates only a responsibility but in Freemasonry. There aprons are composite
and exemplifies the a great privilege, and are three degrees, examples of the three
very real responsibility the accomplishment of Three Great Lights, and the four making
of the more-senior this three seven,
Mason task, properly done, can columns, three Grand and our aprons have a
be a great source of Masters mentioned in length-to-width ratio of

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4:3 to remind us of considered to be only hearing, seeing, considered by

those modifications of the feeling, Freemasons to be of
divine proportions. The original Greek designs. smelling, and greatest significance
first three steps in our The tasting. It is by way of because it is the basis
staircase also represent Parthenon on the these five senses that upon which the
the three principal Acropolis, dedicated to we experience superstructure
officers of the lodge— Athena, is classical and interact with the of Masonic symbolism
the Worshipful Master, Doric physical world around and mythos is erected.
the architecture, as is her us, with our fellow Without geometry, the
senior warden, and the temple at Delphi. The beings, grand architectural
junior warden—and Ephesian temple of and also make accomplishments of
they, in turn, Diana, ourselves known to our mankind would not
symbolically a moon goddess, is brother Masons via the have
denote Wisdom, Ionic. The study of first been built. Great
Strength, and Beauty. architecture relating to three—hearing, seeing, edifices including the
the and feeling. This was Egyptian pyramids and
Five Orders Of construction of the explained to you in the
Architecture ancient temples, greater cathedrals of Europe
The five orders of including the Great detail by your guide were made possible by
architecture are Doric, Temple of during this degree. the proper application
Ionic, Corinthian, Solomon, is interesting of
Tuscan, from both a historic as Seven Liberal Arts geometry, which is
and Composite. The well as a Masonic point and Sciences believed by many
Doric, Ionic, and of view, as was The seven liberal arts Masonic historians to be
Corinthian were the explained by your guide and sciences are the true
original when contemplating the grammar, rhetoric, “secret” known to
orders, or classic forms, five logic, master stonemasons of
of architecture designed orders and their original arithmetic, geometry, all ages and passed
by the Greeks. The derivation. The number music, down from
Tuscan and the five also represents the and astronomy. generation to
Composite are five physical senses of Of these seven, generation in secret
essentially of Roman man’s physical nature: geometry is ceremonies predating
origin and are speculative

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Masonry by thousands contributions to, and so was included in indispensable to the

of years. The other six Masonic life and the seven arts and builder and which we
liberal arts and sciences human history. sciences as appropriate therefore value for their
all have their place in to the contributions to our
society, each one Grammar – Is one of education of a Mason. ancient brothers in their
supporting the other to the triad of skills daily work and their
form dedicated to the Logic – The third leg of continuing usefulness
a synergistic cultivation the triad is occupied today.
environment of learning of language. Grammar with right reasoning,
where the whole is is that particular that faculty which Geometry – Although
greater than discipline which rejects distinguishes the man already partially
the sum of its parts. from of sound mind from the explained, geometry is
Grammar supports language all barbarous madman and the fool. so
rhetoric, which can expressions and so Logic is considered an vital to Freemasonry
expound constructs and essential skill for the that it deserves further
on logic, which can be regulates Mason so that he may examination. Geometry
explained by civilized language properly comprehend is one of the oldest and
mathematics and according to a fixed and his rights and most necessary of
geometry, which proper formula. responsibilities to the sciences. It is that
enabled the astronomer Rhetoric – The second fraternity. infallible
to observe the planets leg of the triad refers to and measurable logic
and stars and so the proper Arithmetic – Is the upon which the whole
calculate adornment, science which is doctrine of
orbits and partially embellishment, and engaged in considering mathematics
define our vast refinement of language the is founded, and is so
universe. The modern to enable the properties and powers closely connected with
Freemason speaker to persuade or of numbers and which, the practice of
is expected to be affect his listeners. It is from its obvious operative
conversant with all the art of oratory and necessity masonry that our
these seven skills or at was considered an in the operations of ancient brothers were
least essential skill for the weighing, numbering, as often called
appreciate their place educated man in and measuring, are geometricians
in, and many ancient times skills

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as masons. Plato closing ceremonies of Temple, where tradition

thought so highly of Astronomy – the second degree. held that the Fellow
geometry that he Astronomy, and its Craft stone masons held
placed over the older sibling astrology, ADMISSION TO THE their meetings and
portals of his academy is that received their wages,
the following science which instructs MIDDLE CHAMBER finally prepared to
us in the physical laws In the Fellow Craft
inscription: “Let none move from
which govern our degree, the senior
enter who is the outer door to the
universe. Astronomy, of deacon leads the
ignorant of geometry.” inner chamber, from the
course, owes much to candidate from
circumference of his
Music – Interestingly, geometry, without the outer porch and up
whole being to his own
music has very often which the Winding Staircase of
inner spiritual center—
been called the the measurements of wisdom and knowledge,
his heart.
geometry diurnal patterns, showing him firsthand
of the soul, based as it planetary rotations and the path by which his
less-noble passions WAGES OF A
is on mathematics and orbits,
physics. Music is spatial relationships, are transcended. Once FELLOW CRAFT
recommended to the and all the other the candidate has MASON
Mason because “as the necessities of symbolically mastered Corn, wine, and oil are
concords of sweet astronomical his the symbolic wages
sounds observation and intellectual faculties, earned by the Fellow
elevate the generous calculation would not be represented by the Craft Mason who, when
sentiments of the soul, remotely possible. The three first steps, the properly tested and
so might brothers strive many symbolism vouched for, arrives at
to emulate the harmony practical benefits of of the number five, and the
of music and avoid the geometry in relation to the seven liberal arts Middle Chamber. Corn
discord of unbridled mankind in general and and sciences, he arrives represents nourishment
passions.” The art of the at the symbolic and the sustenance of
music is considered to Freemasons in entrance to the Middle life. It is also a symbol
be one of the truly particular were Chamber of King of plenty and refers to
magnificent gifts of the expounded upon by the Solomon’s the opportunity for
Creator for the benefit master during the doing
of mankind.

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good, working for the working tools, fidelity to instructive tongue, and “G” is the initial of
community, and one’s obligations, and the faithful breast—all geometry as well as the
performing service to unflagging interest in remind the newly made initial of the name of
mankind. and study of the craftsman the
The corn referred to in structure, purpose, and that the time-honored Supreme Being. From
this degree is actually possibilities of the and valuable method of the time of the old
what we would identify fraternity. instruction is one on charges and
today as wheat. Wine is Such wages may also one, master to student, manuscripts up to
symbolic of be defined in terms of a by word of mouth to the the present, the
refreshment, health, deeper understanding ear of the student, and synonymous nature of
and peace. Oil of always held in strict geometry and Masonry
represents spirituality, brotherhood, a clearer confidence from the is clearly
joy, gladness, and conception of ethical profane and the cowen. stated. It is also obvious
happiness. Taken living, an increased The that “G” is the initial of
together, corn, respect jewels also signify the the word God in the
wine, and oil represent for others and their necessity to learn and English language, and
the potential rewards of point of view, and a apply Masonic you will not find the
living a good Masonic more resolute will to instruction, letter “G” accorded the
life and performing think and and to develop a same
honest labor in the act justly, lifelong devotion to the particular veneration in
service of God and independently, and teachings of the craft Masonic jurisdictions
one’s family, honestly, on the level, and to where English is not the
community, and by the square, and by demonstrate those principal language.
country. the plumb! teachings outside the
The actual “wages” of lodge. NUMBER, ORDER,
the modern-day THE THREE
Freemason are the
SYMMETRY, AND
PRECIOUS JEWELS THE MASONIC PROPORTION
intangible,
but no less real,
The three precious LETTER “G” The great teachings of
jewels of a Fellow Craft In the Fellow Craft the Fellow Craft degree
compensation for
Mason—the attentive degree, the candidate is revolve around the
faithful and intelligent
ear, the informed that the letter importance of the
use of one’s
Masonic study of

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numbers, order, upon to this day. The You may also visit to your duties in life so
symmetry, and Parthenon in Athens, another you can occupy your
proportion. Greece, is an excellent lodge opened in the place in general as well
The Masonic use of the example of proper Fellow Craft or lower as
term geometry includes proportion and the use degree under the same in Masonic society with
all of these. The ancient of symmetry to achieve conditions as above. satisfaction and honor
philosophers considered a You have the right to be to yourself and to the
geometry to have the beautiful design. instructed and fraternity.
power to lead the mind examined,
from the world of DUTIES, RIGHTS, and when found FELLOW
outward appearances to proficient, you may
contemplation of the
AND request advancement CRAFT LIST OF
RESPONSIBILITIES
divine to the sublime HANDOUT
order. It was also OF A FELLOW CRAFT degree of Master
believed that the seven MASON Mason. MATERIALS
liberal arts, properly The particular and SHEET FC - 1
In addition to the
applied specific responsibilities The Plumb, the Level, and
several rights you
and understood, had of a Fellow Craft Mason the Square
acquired as an Entered
the power to liberate Apprentice are
SHEET FC - 2
the mind from material Mason, you now, as a found in part in your
Pictorial Representation of
attachment. Proper newly passed Fellow obligation, and you the Flight of Winding Stairs,
proportion is very Craft Mason, have the should carefully review Orders of Architecture, the
important in right these Five Senses, and the Seven
architecture, and to sit in any lodge when along with your former Liberal Arts and Sciences
some of the most opened in the second (and still binding)
beautiful buildings of degree, if accompanied obligation of an Entered SHEET FC - 3
antiquity were designed by a Master Mason who Apprentice. Finally, you Explanatory Text (from
and has sat in lodge with are reminded that you Tried and Proven)
constructed using you previously and can are to acquire the
proportional formulae therefore vouch for your special SHEET FC - 4
which have not been Masonic credentials. knowledge introduced Outline of Fellow Craft
improved in this degree and seek Charge
to apply that knowledge

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SHEET FC - 5
Vocabulary List for Fellow
Craft Degree
SHEET FC 1
THE PLUMB,
THE LEVEL AND
THE SQUARE
There is a close
relationship
between these
three tools. Both
the tools
themselves and
this
interrelationship
provide an endless source of
symbolic application.
It should be noted that both
the operative plumb and
level, as depicted in the
Masonic representations,
depend upon the force of
gravity for their operation.
(If this is not clear, ask your
instructor to explain.) The
symbolic level and plumb
are also dependent upon a
universal principle, in this
case, that Divine and moral
purpose which Freemasons
1
believe pervades the whole
universe. The square is
closely associated with both
the level and the plumb. Its
significance lies in providing
the builder a means of
testing that perfect
relationship which exists
between the horizontal and
the perpendicular.
The Plumb The plumb as a
symbol 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 the
complexities of life. The
judging of uprightness in
both ourselves and in others
is never a simple operation.
A man must judge himself
and, in turn, be judged by
others according to the most
upright principles that he
knows. Freemasonry teaches
that while an uprightness of
character is a deeply
personal matter, there are
outward standards of
conduct which involve the
tenets of our profession as
masons and the cardinal
virtues of temperance,
fortitude, prudence, and
justice. It is to these
standards of rectitude that
each mason must compare
his conduct when applying
the plumb to test the course
of his actions and the value
of his opinions.
The Level The level is a
symbol of equality. Again
the mason must consider
what is implied when we
speak of equality and
employ the symbol of the
level. What is the basis for
the concept of human
equality of which
Freemasons speak and upon
which they endeavor to base
their dealing with other
human beings? Certainly it
is not a naive assumption
that all humans are born
with equal potentials for
that equality can be assured
by taking the, awards from
those who achieve giving
them to non-achievers. The
Masonic concept of equality
is based upon recognition of
the inherent dignity and
worth of all human beings
as individuals and as
members of the human
family as created by God.
Equality thus involves not
only the right to equal
opportunity but the right to
genuine respect for all based
upon "the internal and not
the external qualifications."
The equality of the level
transcends any supposed
differences of race, gender,
ability, honors, or material
acquisitions.
The Square Of all the
symbols prominent in the
teachings of Freemasonry,
none is more ancient or
widespread in its common
use than the square. Yet for
all its use, what is the
meaning of the symbolic
square? To say that the
square symbolizes honesty
in thought and conduct is
only to introduce the
meaning of the square. To
reiterate that, the 'symbolic
square is linked closely to
Fellowcraft Study Guide
Blaine C. Clay Instruction
the level and the plumb is
only to suggest its
implications. "To act upon
the square" is a phrase
which involves the whole
meaning of being a
Freemason. To constantly
be aware that each act, each
thought, and each impulse
should be tested for its true
relationship to our purpose
as masons is the proper
application of the moral and
symbolic square,. To "try"
with a square is a fine old
word meaning a repeated
application of that
instrument to see if one is
achieving the "right angle"
relationships intended. To
"try" our lives, thoughts
and actions by the symbolic
square is to test how closely
we are living to the
principles symbolized by the
plumb and the level and
which are given voice in the
moral teachings of
Freemasonry.
There is a very old saying
among masons that in
parting each other’s
company, they do so "on the
1
square." Though they
depart in many directions,
they take with them that
symbolic instrument which
will assure that their actions
will be a continuation of a
common purpose as builders
of well-being and that they
shall return in proper
relationship to the intentions
of the Grand Architect.
Note: For further
consideration of the plumb,
level and square ask your
instructor for references to
the many sources on this
subject.
SHEET FC 2
SHEET FC 3
THE FELLOW CRAFT
DEGREE SOME
THOUGHTS FOR
CONSIDERATION
Masonic thinkers often
point out that the three
degrees of Ancient Craft
Masonry, the Entered
Apprentice, Fellow Craft,
and Master Mason Degrees,
can be associated with
man's passage through life:
youth, manhood, and age. In
such a view, the Fellow
Craft represents adulthood.
1. Does adulthood mean
having lived through a
certain number of years or
does it represent a condition
in which a man has become
acquainted with the
realities, the responsibilities,
the disillusionments, and the
rewarding challenges of life?
A Fellow Craft, as our ritual
describes him, is a hewer in
the mountains, a man
laboring 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 he
find in life's experience a joy
and reward or defeat and
drudgery?
2. Experience and
education are two important
contributors to the state of
adulthood. Through his
senses and contact with life
around him, man learns the
lessons of experience.
Through education, a man's
awareness and
understanding are greatly
extended by means of the
experience of others. A
Fellow Craft will recall that
both experience and
education are principal
concerns in this Degree, and
that there is a third concern
toward which the progress
of that degree continually
travels that concern is the
quest for wisdom.
3. Experience brings us into
direct contact with life;
education expands our
knowledge and
competencies, but there is a
greater and essential
element. To make
1
meaningful the varied
experiences which come our
way, to see ourselves and
others in a fair perspective,
to feel that our lives have a
meaning associated with
that which is far greater
than ourselves, involves
wisdom.
4. If a man is to acquire
wisdom, it is by a winding
and upward climb and
arduous progress involving
caring and sacrifices,
knowledge and
understanding, faith and
communion.
5. In adulthood it will be
made evident whether a
man has discovered for
himself that "pass" which
will admit him into the
Middle Chamber where the
source of wisdom and
universal meaning dwells
and there he will receive the
wages of joy and fulfillment.
For further discussion see
the Masonic Service
Association's Tried and
Proven.
SHEET FC 4 PROFICIENCY AND
OUTLINE OF FELLOW ADVANCEMENT
CRAFT CHARGE Prior to advancement to the
• The internal not the Master Mason degree, every
external Mason must be able to answer
qualifications. certain questions and reach a
• Adherence to duties required
and the value of level of proficiency in the
these duties. work of the Fellow Craft
• Laws and degree. The current
Regulations to be proficiency requirements will
strenuously be explained in detail by the
supported. master, your
• You are to judge candidate’s coach, Masonic
with candor, mentor or Masonic Formation
admonish with team member.
friendship, and Good luck. We look forward
reprehend with to raising you to the sublime
justice. degree of
• The great value of Master Mason in the very near
the liberal arts. future.
• Geometry and the Candidate’s Questions
demonstration of the
1) In the Fellow Craft, what does the
properties of nature term “passed” refer to?
and the truths of a) Being promoted to the next
morality. degree
• VI Expectations b) Having advanced an
placed upon the new achievement
Fellow Craft. c) The act of passing through
a long aisleway or porch
2) What are the principal working tools
of a Fellow Craft Mason?
a) Wine, corn, and oil
b) Square, plumb, and level
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Blaine C. Clay Instruction
c) Twenty-four-inch gauge,
square, and compass
3) What makes a lodge “just and
legally constituted?”
a) All the working tools of
this degree are present
b) If the Three Great Lights of
Masonry are properly
displayed on the altar
c) If the Three Great Lights of
Masonry are properly
displayed on
the altar and the charter of the
lodge is present in the lodge
4) The two pillars represented in the
lodge are named:
a) Boaz and Naphtali
b) Jachin and Boaz
c) 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 theological
virtues of this degree?
a) Brotherly love, relief, and
truth
b) Faith, hope, and charity
c) The Three Great Lights of
Masonry
1
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 Composite
c) Parthenon, Athena, Doric,
Ionic, and Tuscan
8) What are the three precious jewels
of a Fellow Craft Mason?
a) Brotherly love, relief, and
truth
b) Corn, wine, and oil
c) Attentive ear, instructive
tongue, and faithful breast
9) What are the symbolic wages of a
Fellow Craft Mason?
a) Wine, corn, oil
b) Wheat, barley, wine
c) Corn, oil, barley
10) What liberal science is most
important to Masons?
a) Astronomy
b) Logic
c) Geometry
ESSAY QUESTION:
Briefly describe the symbolic meaning
of the Pillars and the Porch
as it relates to the degree:
GLOSSARY
ADMONISH - to caution,
advise, or counsel against; to
express warning
or disapproval; to give
friendly, earnest advice and
encouragement.
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, and
earlier, form of the word
capital.
COLUMN - a supporting pillar
consisting of a base, a
cylindrical shaft,
and a capital.
COMPOSITE - one of the five
orders of architecture
developed late in the
Roman period as an enriched
version of the Corinthian that
combines
the Corinthian and Ionic
styles.
CONFLAGRATION - fire,
especially a large, disastrous
fire.
CONTEMPLATE - to look at
attentively and thoughtfully;
to consider
carefully.
CONTRIVE - to devise; to
plan; to invent or build in an
artistic or
ingenious manner.
CORINTHIAN - one of the
three classical (Greek) orders
of
architecture—the most
ornamented of the three.
Originated in the city
of Corinth in Greece.
CUBIT - an ancient unit of
linear measure, approximately
18 inches in
today’s measure.
DEPRESSED - underneath;
lower than its surroundings.
DISCERNING - showing
insight and understanding;
excellent judgment.
DISPERSED - scattered;
spread widely.
DIURNAL - recurring every
day; having a daily cycle.
DORIC - one of the three
classical (Greek) orders of
architecture—the
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Blaine C. Clay Instruction
oldest and simplest of the
three, originated in an area of
ancient Greece
known as Doris.
EDIFICE - a building,
especially one of imposing
appearance or size.
EPHRAIMITES - members of
one of the 12 tribes of Israel,
descended
from Ephraim, one of the sons
of Jacob.
HOMAGE - respect or
reverence paid or rendered;
expression of high
regard.
INJUNCTION - an order or
requirement placed upon
someone by a
superior.
INUNDATION - to overflow
with water; a flood.
IONIC - one of the three
classical (Greek) orders of
architecture,
originated in an area of
ancient Greece known as
Ionia.
JUDICIOUS - having,
exercising, or characterized
by sound judgment;
discrete; wise.
1
NAPHTALI - one of the sons
of Jacob, brother of Joseph,
and a founder of
one of the twelve tribes of
Israel.
NOVITIATE - a beginner; a
novice.
PALLIATE - to try to conceal
the seriousness of an offense
by excuses and
apologies; to moderate the
intensity of; to reduce the
seriousness of; to
relieve or lessen without
curing.
24 CANDIDATE GUIDE FELLOW CRAFT 25
PILASTER - an upright
architectural member that is
rectangular in plan
and is structurally a pier, but
is architecturally treated as a
column; it
usually projects a third of its
width or less from the wall.
POMMEL - a ball or knob.
REPREHEND - to voice
disapproval of; to express an
attitude of
unhappiness and disgust.
SALUTARY - producing a
beneficial effect; remedial;
promoting health;
curative; wholesome.
SEVERALLY - one at a time; VICISSITUDES - the
each by itself; separately; successive, alternating,
independently. or changing phases or
SUMMONS - a written notice conditions of life or
issued for an especially fortune; ups and downs;
important meeting the difficulties of life;
of a lodge; the written notice difficulties or hardships
or requirement by authority to which are part of a way
appear at a of life or career.
place named. 26 CANDIDATE GUIDE
SUPERFICE - a geometrical
object which is of two
dimensions and exists
in a single plane.
SUPERSTRUCTURE -
anything based on, or rising
from, some
foundation or basis; an entity,
concept, or complex based on
a more
fundamental one.
TUSCAN - one of the five
orders of architecture,
originated in Tuscany, a
region of central Italy.
UNDISCOVERED
COUNTRY FROM
WHOSE BOURNE NO
TRAVELER
RETURNS - that which
lies beyond death; the
afterlife. From
Shakespeare, Hamlet:
Act III, Scene 1.
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