The Landmarks of Freemasonry

List of landmarks

1. The Modes of Recognition

These are the signs, tokens, and words by which Masons can identify and acknowledge each other. These landmarks are considered to be the oldest and must be kept strictly confidential.

2. The Division of Symbolic Degrees

The system of Freemasonry is divided into degrees, with the three primary ones being Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.

3. The Legend of the Third Degree

The story of the death and resurrection of Hiram Abiff, the Master Builder of King Solomon's Temple. This narrative holds great significance for Freemasons, as it conveys a profound allegorical message.

4. Government of the Fraternity by a Presiding Officer

Every Masonic Lodge is governed by a Master, who is elected by members and holds the highest authority in the Lodge.

5. The Prerogative of the Master to Rule and Govern

The Master has the right to preside, make decisions, and maintain order within their Lodge.

6. The Necessity of Masons to Congregate in Lodges

Masons must meet in groups known as Lodges for their regular ceremonies and activities.

7. The Right of Every Mason to be Represented in All General Masonic Assemblies

Every Freemason has the right to have their voice and concerns represented at larger Masonic gatherings.

8. The Right of Every Mason to Appeal from the Decision of their Brethren

If a Mason believes they have been treated unfairly, they are entitled to appeal to higher Masonic authorities.

9. The Right of Every Mason to Visit and Sit in Every Regular Lodge

Subject to certain protocols, a Mason can visit any Lodge in the world and be welcomed as a Brother.

10. No Innovations in the Body of Masonry

The fundamental principles and landmarks of Freemasonry cannot be changed or modified.

11. The Necessity for Masons to Believe in a Supreme Being

One cannot be a Freemason unless they believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, regardless of their specific religious persuasion.

12. The Subsistence of the Ancient Landmarks

The ancient landmarks, or foundational principles, of Masonry must always be maintained and upheld.

13. A Mason Must Be Freeborn and of Mature Age

Historically, one had to be freeborn (not born into slavery) and of a certain age to be initiated into Freemasonry.

14. The Equality of All Masons

Within the Lodge, every Mason is treated as an equal, regardless of their social, economic, or political status.

15. Secrecy

The rituals, symbols, and certain teachings of Freemasonry are to be kept confidential from non-Masons.

16. The Moral and Ethical Teachings

Freemasonry emphasises moral and ethical lessons for its members, promoting virtues such as brotherly love, relief, and truth.

17. The Sovereignty of Individual Grand Lodges

Each Grand Lodge operates independently and has the authority to govern Masonry within its specific jurisdiction, free from any external interference from other Grand Lodges.

18. The Necessity of Being Proficient in Masonic Ritual and Teachings

In order to advance to the next degree, it is necessary for a Mason to exhibit proficiency in both the ritual and teachings of their current degree.

19. The Ban on Political and Religious Discussions in Lodges

To maintain harmony, Lodges prohibit discussions on politics and religion, as these topics can be divisive.

20. The Requirement of a Volume of Sacred Law in Every Lodge

A holy book, depending on the predominant religion of the country (Bible, Quran, Torah, etc.), must be open during all Masonic meetings.

21. The Symbolism of the Operative Art

Freemasonry uses symbols derived from the operative masons, like the square and compasses, to convey moral lessons.

22. The Immortality of the Soul

Freemasonry teaches that the human soul is immortal and will persist its existence in the afterlife.

23. The Resurrection to a Future Life

Masons believe in the resurrection and a future existence, emphasising moral living in the present.

24. The Foundation on Speculative Science and Operative Art

While Masonry originally started as an operative craft, it has evolved into a speculative science focusing on moral and philosophical teachings.

25. The Equality and Brotherhood of Humanity

All individuals are regarded as siblings, united under the parenthood of the Supreme Being. This belief promotes a sense of unity and fellowship among people.

It should be noted that while many Masonic bodies around the world recognise these or similar landmarks, the exact number, wording, and emphasis can vary based on jurisdiction and tradition.