The First Degree in Freemasonry, also known as the Entered Apprentice degree, lays the foundational principles for a Mason’s journey. Its lessons primarily focus on new beginnings, the importance of learning, and the fundamental principles of morality and brotherly love. It introduces the candidate to the basic tenets of the Craft and emphasizes humility and a desire for knowledge.
The lessons of the First Degree can be broken down into:
- Introduction to the First Degree
- The Emphasis on Learning and Instruction
- The Principles of Morality and Conduct
- The Introduction to Brotherly Love and Charity
Introduction to the First Degree
Think of the First Degree, the Entered Apprentice, as the very first step on a new and fascinating journey. It’s the “entrance” into the world of Freemasonry. Symbolically, it represents a time of new beginnings, much like starting a new school or learning a new skill. You’re coming in as a beginner, ready to learn and absorb new knowledge.
This degree is all about initiation – being introduced to the fundamental principles and symbols of the Craft. It sets the stage for your future progress in Freemasonry. It emphasizes that you are at the start of a path of self-improvement and learning.
A key aspect of the First Degree is the core values that it introduces. These are often summarized as Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth:
- Brotherly Love emphasizes the importance of kindness, tolerance, and respect among all people, and especially towards fellow Masons.
- Relief highlights the duty to support those in need, whether through charity or other forms of assistance.
- Truth underscores the commitment to honesty, sincerity, and the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
These three principles form the ethical foundation upon which all Masonic teachings are built.
Reflection – Do you have any initial thoughts or questions about this idea of the First Degree as a new beginning?
The Emphasis on Learning and Instruction
From the moment a candidate enters the lodge for their First Degree, there’s a clear message that they are there to learn. The rituals and ceremonies are filled with instruction, presented through symbols, allegory, and lectures. Think of it like starting a new apprenticeship – you are there to receive guidance and knowledge from those who are more experienced.
The First Degree emphasizes the importance of humility in learning. Just as a student must acknowledge what they don’t know to begin their education, the Entered Apprentice is encouraged to approach their Masonic journey with an open mind and a willingness to be taught.
A key element in this learning process is the introduction to the Working Tools of the Entered Apprentice: the Twenty-four Inch Gauge and the Common Gavel.
- The Twenty-four Inch Gauge is divided into three equal parts, symbolizing the division of time: eight hours for work, eight hours for refreshment, and eight hours for sleep and serving God and distressed worthy brethren. This tool teaches the importance of order, balance, and using our time wisely.
- The Common Gavel is used by the operative mason to break off the rough and superfluous parts of stones, fitting them for the builder’s use. Symbolically, it teaches the Entered Apprentice to divest themselves of vices and superfluities of life, so they can become a smoother, better person.
- The Chisel is used to mark or break the stone worked on by the Apprentice. The Gavel provides the force but the chisel focusses the energy to a single point enabling each strike to be accurate and powerful. The Chisel is symbolical of man’s education, the education that the Apprentice receives enabling him to improve his self, his knowledge and his skill.
These tools, and the explanations provided during the degree, highlight that Freemasonry is a journey of continuous learning and self-improvement.
Reflection – What are your initial thoughts on the symbolism of these tools and the emphasis on learning in the First Degree? Do you see how these early lessons set the stage for further growth and understanding?
The Principles of Morality and Conduct
The First Degree strongly emphasizes the importance of moral behaviour and personal improvement. It teaches that a Mason should strive to be a good and upright person, adhering to high ethical standards in all aspects of their life.
Think of it like laying a solid foundation for a building. If the foundation is weak or flawed, the entire structure will be unstable. Similarly, the First Degree aims to instil in the candidate the fundamental principles of morality that will support their growth as a Mason and as an individual.
This is often conveyed through the lectures and explanations within the ritual, which highlight virtues such as honesty, temperance, and justice. The degree encourages the Entered Apprentice to reflect on their own conduct and to actively work towards becoming a better version of themselves.
Reflection – What does “moral conduct” mean to you in your own life? Can you think of some examples of how someone might demonstrate strong moral principles?
The symbolic significance of the obligation taken during the First Degree
During the First Degree ceremony, the candidate takes solemn obligation. These aren’t just empty words; they are symbolic commitments to live according to high moral standards and to uphold the principles of the Craft. Think of it like making a promise or a vow that guides your actions and decisions.
These obligations often relate to:
- Maintaining confidentiality: This teaches the importance of discretion and trustworthiness.
- Obeying the laws of the land: This emphasizes good citizenship and respect for authority.
- Acting with integrity and honesty: This reinforces the moral principles we just discussed.
- Extending brotherly love and aid: This introduces the concept of supporting fellow Masons.
While the specific wording of these obligations may vary between Lodges, the underlying message is consistent: a Mason is expected to be a person of good character and to act honourably in all their dealings.
Reflection – Why do you think it’s important for a society or organization to have its members make such commitments? What kind of impact do you think these obligations might have on an individual’s behaviour?
In Summary
The First, or Entered Apprentice Degree, marks the beginning of a Mason’s journey, symbolizing a new start focused on learning and self-improvement. It introduces the core tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, which form the ethical foundation of Freemasonry.
The degree heavily emphasizes learning and instruction, using rituals, symbols, and lectures to impart knowledge. The Working Tools of the Entered Apprentice, the Twenty-four Inch Gauge, Chisel and the Common Gavel, teach the importance of order, balance, and personal refinement.
Furthermore, the First Degree underscores the significance of morality and conduct, encouraging members to live by high ethical standards. The obligations taken during the ceremony are symbolic commitments to these principles, including honesty, integrity, and brotherly support.
The Introduction to Brotherly Love and Charity.
The First Degree serves as an initial introduction to the idea that Freemasonry is about more than just individual growth; it’s also about the connections and responsibilities members have towards each other and the wider community. The concept of the brotherhood of man is a fundamental principle, emphasizing that all individuals, regardless of their background, are part of a larger human family and deserve respect and consideration.
Within the lodge, this translates into a bond of brotherly love among Masons. This isn’t just a casual friendship; it implies a commitment to support, care for, and be there for one another in times of need.
Furthermore, the First Degree introduces the importance of charity. This principle encourages Masons to look beyond their own immediate circle and to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate in the broader community. This can take many forms, from financial contributions to volunteering time and skills.
This isn’t just about abstract ideas. Brotherly love is often expressed through acts of support for fellow members and their families during difficult times. This could involve offering assistance in times of illness, providing guidance, or simply being a reliable friend.
Similarly, charity is put into action through various philanthropic endeavours. Masonic lodges and organizations often contribute to local and national charities, supporting causes ranging from education and healthcare to disaster relief. Individual Masons are also encouraged to be charitable in their own lives.
Reflections – Can you see how the principles of brotherly love and charity, introduced in the First Degree, lay the groundwork for a more connected and supportive community?
Think about times when you’ve felt a sense of camaraderie or connection with a group of people. How did that feeling influence your actions and your willingness to help others?