The Third Degree: Master Mason
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As the final and highest honor in Freemasonry, the Master Mason degree symbolizes man’s maturity through increased knowledge and wisdom. It is the culmination of all he has learned through the first degrees, including how to prepare for spiritual enlightenment through the craft’s teachings.
In the third degree, a candidate now learns to act with courage, fidelity, and devotion to his God. The Master Mason ritual emphasizes the immortality of man’s soul and encourages us to contemplate how this should influence our actions and decisions. The candidate also strengthens his knowledge of the ethical principles of Freemasonry as he encounters:
- The story of Hiram Abif, a moving allegory expressing the importance of fidelity and the inevitability of death.
- The lost word, which represents a Freemason’s never-ending search for light, truth, and connection with his God.
- New core Masonic symbolism, including the beehive, trowel, the hourglass, acacia sprig, and many others.
Privileges of a Master Mason
As a Master Mason, a man is free to follow his own path in the craft and is entitled to the benefits of full membership. He can study in greater depth the philosophy that underlies our ceremonies and aspire to leadership positions in his lodge and greater Masonic community. While Master Mason is the highest rank in Freemasonry, many Brothers choose to continue their study and training in the craft by joining appendant bodies such as The Scottish Rite (32° Freemasonry), The York Rite, and The Shrine (or “Shriners”), among others.
A Master Mason may also:
- Visit other Masonic lodges
- Request Masonic relief
- Affiliate with a new lodge upon relocation
- Appear in public Masonic processions
- Be taught all lessons that Masonry has to offer
As a Master Mason, a man is obliged to abide by the laws, constitutions, and edicts of his Grand Lodge. He is expected to conduct himself with honor and integrity, upholding the core Masonic tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Freemasonry is a lifelong journey, and thoroughly absorbing the lessons of the degrees requires constant reflection. By returning to lodge, witnessing the degrees, and becoming an active part of the Masonic community, a man can build himself into a better man.