NOTE: The following is a set of questions and answers extracted from a 
publication entitled A Basic Masonic Education Course. This course was 
created by the Grand Lodge of California in 1991 for use by candidates 
as they advance through their three symbolic degrees. Non-Masons who are 
interested are encouraged to read the text. To quote one of our more 
illustrious Masons, Brother Alfred Sawyer, It would be well if we could 
learn more of what Masonry is than what some think it was. 

When the Masonic Education Course was first published, a set of three 
booklets were printed, one for each degree. These questions and answers 
should be attached to their respective booklet. 

Please remember that some of the questions and answers are specific to 
the Jurisdiction of California and may not apply to other Jurisdictions. 
This would primarily apply to those parts dealing with Masonic Law and 
procedure.  Some differences in ritual may also be noted. Should any 
Grand Jurisdiction or other Masonic body choose to adopt any or part of 
this program, it would be appreciated it a letter indicating such 
intended use or a courtesy copy of the reprinted material be sent to the 
Grand Lodge of California. 

  Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of California
  1111 California Street
  San Francisco, CA. 94108

This information has been made available on the Masonry Forum, 
CompuServe by William N. Wine #72435,1512 Past Master of Mt. Diablo No. 
448, Concord, California and a member of the Masonic Education 
Committee, Grand Lodge of California. (March 1994)


------------------------------------------------------------------------



Masonic Education Manual
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991

Contents

  Questions For The Entered Apprentice

  Answers To The Questions For The Entered Apprentice 

  Questions For The Fellow Craft Mason

  Answers To The Questions For The Fellowcraft Mason

  Questions For The Master Mason

  Answers To The Questions For The Master Mason


------------------------------------------------------------------------


QUESTIONS FOR THE ENTERED APPRENTICE;
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991


1.  What is the modern definition of Masonry?

2.  What is Masonrys purpose?

3.  When did Freemasonry originate?

4.  What is the difference between Operative and Speculative Masonry?

5.  The origin of the first Grand Lodge occurred in what year?  What was 
the significance of that event?

6.  What does F.& A.M. and A.F.& A.M. mean?

7.  Why is Freemasonry considered a secret society?  Why?

8.  Why cant an Atheist become a Mason?

9.  What is Masonrys policy on Catholics becoming Masons?

10. In order to submit a petition for entrance into Freemasonry, what 
are the qualifications of a petitioner?

11. How can a petitioner best prepare himself for initiation into 
Masonry?

12. What do we mean when we say a candidate must first be prepared in 
his heart?

13. What do we mean when we say duly and truly prepared?

14. What is the symbolism of the hoodwink?

15. What is the symbolism of the Cable-Tow?

16  Why is the entrance to the Lodge so important to a candidate?

17. Who are the Holy Saints John and why does Masonry use these Saints?

18. Give two reasons why candidates are perambulate around the altar?

19. Why are the three Great Lights of Masonry placed in the center of 
the Lodge?

20. What does the open Bible signify in the Lodge?

21. What is the Square supposed to teach us?

22. What is the Compass supposed to teach us?

23. Of what significance is the Obligation?

24. Even though the physical penalties mentioned in the Obligation are 
symbolic, why are they retained in the ritual work?

25. The lambskin apron is an emblem of what?  What does it signify?

26. What is the Rite of Destitution supposed to teach us?

27. Why is the Entered Apprentice placed in the Northeast coroner of the 
Lodge?

28. Of what use is the Speculative Mason to make of the Symbolic working 
tools of the Degrees?

29. Define cowan.

30. Define eavesdropper.

31. What are the rights of an Entered Apprentice Mason?

32. What are the responsibilities of an Entered Apprentice Mason?


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ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS FOR THE ENTERED APPRENTICE
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991


1.  What is the modern definition of Masonry? 
A modern definition of Freemasonry is an organized society of men, 
symbolically applying the principles of Operative Masonry and 
architecture to the science and art of character building.  PG 1,  1 

2.  What is Masonrys purpose?
Its basic purpose is to make better men out of good men. PG 1,  2

3.  When did Freemasonry originate? 
We are not sure at what point in time our craft was born.  We do know it 
goes beyond written record and we believe it was not always called 
Freemasonry. PG 1,  3

4.  What is the difference between operative and speculative Masonry? 
  Operative refers to the time in our history when masons actually did 
the physical labor of building.
  Speculative refers to the period of time when men who were not 
actually stone masons came to be accepted into the lodges as non-
operative members.  They are not physical builders, but are 
considered character builders instead. PG 1,  4  - PG 2,  1

5.  The origin of the first Grand Lodge occurred in what year?  What was 
The significance of that event?
In 1717, four Lodges in London formed the first Grand Lodge.  The 
formation of that Grand Lodge marked the start of Freemasonry as we know 
it today. PG 2,  2

6.  What does F. & A.M. and A.F. & A.M. mean?
F. & A.M. means Free and Accepted Mason.  A.F. & A.M. means Ancient 
Free and Accepted Mason. PG 2,  4 - PG 3,  1

7.  Is freemasonry considered a secret society?  Why?
NO.  Our membership is not concealed from the public; we advertise the 
time and place of our meetings; we participate in community activities 
and events; and openly sponsor charities.  Our only secrets are our 
ritual, modes of recognition and the business transacted at our stated 
meetings. PG 3,  2

8.  Why cant an atheist become a Mason?
An atheist does not believe in God or a Supreme Being, therefore, he 
could not express a belief in them. PG 3,  3

9.  What is Masonrys policy on Catholics becoming Masons?
There is nothing in any of our doctrines or regulations which would 
prohibit a Catholic from becoming a Mason.PG 4,  1

10.  In order to submit a petition for entrance into Freemasonry, what 
are the qualifications of a petitioner? 
A petitioner must be a man, 21 years of age, have a belief in a Supreme 
Being, free of felony convictions and be of good moral character. PG 4, 
 3

11.  How can a petitioner best prepare himself for initiation into 
Masonry?  
A candidate should first prepare his mind to understand and absorb our 
teachings.  Also, to understand that our ceremonies are serious in 
nature and dignified in presentation, and that he should pay strict 
attention to every part of the ceremony.  He should learn that every 
member in the Lodge room is his friend and brother.  PG 4,  4 - PG 5,  
1

12.  What do we mean when we say a candidate must first be prepared in 
his heart?
We are concerned with building of character.  Working toward this goal 
must begin within the heart, for if the heart is not ready, we cannot 
expect to make an impression on the mind. PG 7,  4 - PG 8,  1

13.  What do we mean when we say duly and truly prepared?
The phrase refers to the wearing of special garments furnished by the 
Lodge.  It is to emphasize our concern with mans internal qualities, 
rather than his worldly wealth and honors. PG 8,  2

14.  What is the symbolism of the hoodwink?
The hoodwink is a symbol of the darkness in which the uninitiated stands 
regarding Masonry.  It is removed after the candidate has been 
enlightened regarding the mysteries of Masonry. PG 8,  3

15.  What is the symbolism of the cable tow?        
The cable tow is a symbolic restraint that is removed from the candidate 
after he has assumed the obligation of an Entered Apprentice Mason. PG 
8,  4

16.  Why is the entrance into the Lodge room so important to a 
Candidate?  
On entering the Lodge, the candidate has entered into the new world of 
Masonry.  A world where he can become a better man by working on his own 
nature using the teachings of masonry. PG 8,  5

17.  Who are the Holy Saints John and why does Masonry use these Saints?
Masonic Lodges are symbolically dedicated to St. John the Baptist and 
St. John the Evangelist, who are allegorically said to have been the 
Patron Saints of Freemasonry. PG 9,  2

18.  Give two reasons why candidates perambulate around the alter?  
So the Brethren can see that the candidate is properly prepared.  The 
perambulation should teach the candidate that Freemasonry is a 
progressive science, and that life is a journey through which each must 
travel toward his ultimate destiny. PG 9,  4

19.  Why are the Three Great Lights of Masonry placed in the center of 
the Lodge?  
The alter with the Three Great Lights upon it symbolizes the place which 
God has in Masonry, and which He should have in every persons life.  No 
Lodge in California may stand officially open, unless the Holy Bible is 
opened upon its Altar and the Square and Compass is displayed thereon. 
PG 9,  5 - PG 10,  1

20.  What does the open Holy Bible signify in the Lodge?
The open Holy Bible signifies that we should regulate our conduct 
according to its teachings, because it is the rule and guide of our 
faith. PG 10,  3

21.  What is the square supposed to teach us?
It is a symbol of morality and teaches us to act upon the square. PG 
10,  3

22.  What is the compass supposed to teach us?
To regard the Compass as excluding beyond its circle that which is 
harmful or unworthy. PG 10,  3

23.  Of what significance is the obligation?
The Obligation has a two-fold purpose.  In addition to binding the 
candidate to Freemasonry and its duties, it also protects the Fraternity 
against someone revealing its secrets which deal with its modes of 
recognition and symbolic instruction.  The candidates should understand 
that the great truths which Masonry teaches are not secret, but the 
manner in which Freemasonry teaches these truths is considered secret.  
PG 10,  4 - PG 11,  1

24.  Even though the physical penalties in the obligation are symbolic, 
why are they retained in the ritual work?
They are retained to impress upon the mind of each Brother how serious a 
violation will be regarded by the members of the Fraternity. PG 11,  2

25.  The lambskin apron is an emblem of what?  What does it signify?
It is an emblem of Innocence and the Badge of a Mason.  It signifies 
that Masons are workers and builders, not drones and destructionists. PG 
11,  3

26.  What is the rite of destitution supposed to teach us?
It symbolically reminds us that we should not bring our passions or our 
prejudices into the Lodge room lest that harmony, which is one of the 
chief concerns of Masonry, be destroyed. PG 11,  4

27.  Why are Entered Apprentices placed in the northeast corner of the 
Lodge?
To receive instruction from the Worshipful Master in order to erect his 
moral and Masonic Edifice.  Also, to remind him that he is the 
foundation of the future of Masonry. PG 11,  5

28.  Of what use is the speculative mason to make of the symbolic 
working tools of the degrees? 
The working tools allocated to the three degrees, by their very 
presence, declare there is constructive work to be done, and by their 
nature, indicate the direction this work is to take. PG 12,  1

29.  Define cowan
A cowan is one who tries to masquerade as a Mason. PG 13,  5

30.  Define eavesdropper 
An eavesdropper is one who tries to steal the secrets of our Society.  
He is the one who would forge a good dues card, or finds one and 
masquerades as the owner. PG 13,  5

31. What are the rights of an Entered Apprentice Mason? 
He has the right to attend all first degrees with a member of his Lodge. 
To receive instruction in the first degree.  To receive a Masonic 
Funeral service.  To receive a trial if charged with violating his 
obligation.  And to request receiving his degrees in another Lodge 
should he relocate.  To request advancement to a higher degree when 
proficient.  By use of the modes of recognition, he may make himself 
known to other Masons. PG 14,  3

32. What are the responsibilities of an Entered Apprentice Mason?
He must keep for himself those secrets that have been entrusted to his 
care, conduct himself with proper decorum, diligently work to learn his 
proficiency and as much about the Craft as possible.  He should not be 
content with learning the words letter-perfect, but should study the 
meanings also.  If he cannot interpret these for himself, he should seek 
help form others.  Complete faithfulness to his obligation, and implicit 
obedience to the charge are among his important and lasting 
responsibilities. PG 14,  4


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QUESTIONS FOR THE FELLOW CRAFT MASON
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991


1.  What are we trying to emphasize in the Fellow Craft Degree?

2.  The Fellow Craft Degree symbolizes man in what period of his life?

3.  Approximately when did we start to become Speculative rather than 
Operative

4.  When and where was the first Grand Lodge formed? 

5.  What does the Level symbolize? 

6.  What does the Plumb symbolize?

7.  What are the Jewels of the Fellow Craft and what do they signify? 

8.  What does Corn, Wine and Oil represent?

9.  What are the great values of life?  What do they signify? 

10.  What do the Winding stairs as a whole represent?

11.  What do the first three steps represent?

12.  What do the next five steps represent?

13.  What do the final seven steps represent? 

14.  What are we trying to teach on the journey to the Middle Chamber?

15.  What is the Middle Chamber?

16.  Why do we use the letter G?

17.  What must a Fellow Craft Mason do to understand the significance of 
the emblems of the degree? 

18.  What are the four rights of a Fellow Craft Mason?

19.  What are the responsibilities of a Fellow Craft Mason?


------------------------------------------------------------------------


ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS FOR THE FELLOW CRAFT MASON
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991


1. What are we trying to emphasize in the Fellow Craft degree?
In the degree of Fellow Craft, we try to emphasize the dignity and worth 
of the individual. PG 1,  1 

2.  The Fellow Craft Degree symbolizes man in what period of his life?
The Fellow Craft Degree symbolizes man in the prime years of his life. 
PG 1,  1 

3.  Approximately when did we start to become speculative rather than 
operative Masons? 
It began in the early 1600s. PG 1,  3 

4.  When and where was the first Grand Lodge formed?
A Grand Lodge of England was formed in London at a meeting held in the 
Goose and Gridiron Tavern in the year 1717 A.D. PG 1,  4 

5.  What does the level symbolize?
The Level is a symbol of equality. PG 3,  2

6.  What does the plumb symbolize?
The plumb is a symbol of uprightness of conduct. PG 3,  3

7.  What are the jewels of the Fellow Craft and what do they signify?
They are the attentive ear, the instructive tongue and the faithful 
breast. They signify the necessity to learn to utilize good Masonic 
instruction and to develop a devotion to the teachings of our Craft.PG 
3,  4 

8.  What does corn, wine and oil represent?
Corn represents nourishment and the sustenance of life. It also is a 
symbol of plenty.  Wine is a symbol of refreshment, health, spirituality 
and peace.  Oil represents joy, gladness and happiness. PG 3,  5 - PG 
4, 1 

9.  What are the great values of life?  What do they signify?
They are religion, which is mans quest for God; Brotherhood, which is 
life grounded in good will; Art, by which we enjoy the beautiful; 
Citizenship, by which we enjoy communal life; Science, by which we learn 
the nature of the world we live in; and Literature, by which we enter 
into communion with the life of all mankind. PG 4,  3

10.  What do the winding stairs as a whole represent? 
The Winding Stairs represent the progress of an inquiring mind, toiling 
and laboring toward intellectual cultivation and study.  It reminds us 
that each man must seek knowledge of God on his own.  Masonry teaches a 
need for this relationship - not the way to it. PG 4,  6 - PG 5,  1 & 
2

11.  What do the first three steps represent? 
The first three steps teach us that we are dependent upon God, and that 
we must harmonize our will with His, building our own spiritual temple 
according to the Divine Plan. PG 5,  3   
 
12.  What do the next five steps represent? 
The five steps teaches the use of Order in Architecture, and that this 
order must be applied to our own spiritual building. PG 5,  3  

13.  What do the final seven steps represent? 
The seven steps symbolize the crowning glory of man, and thedevelopment 
of both the mind and the spirit, and the acquisition of the courage and 
faith which cause each person who possess these virtues to climb to the 
summit and attain the rewards that await those who faint not. PG 5,  3

14.  What are we trying to teach on the journey to the middle chamber?
It represents mans journey from ignorance to enlightenment. It 
signifies that man must acquire knowledge chiefly through his own 
effort, though he is often dependent upon others for help.  Emphasis 
should be placed upon the amount of effort put forth by the candidate, 
for without effort, he cannot reap the reward he seeks. PG 5,  4 

15.  What is the middle chamber?
It is the symbolic place of reward for your labors. Fellow Craft 
received their wages on the evening of the sixth day. PG 5,  5 - PG 6, 
 1 

16.  Why do we use the letter G?
The letter G is a symbol of Geometry and, also, of Deity. By the 
letter G, we are reminded that our every act is done in the sight of 
God, and that Divine Providence is over all of our lives. PG 6,  3 

17.  What must a Fellowcraft Mason do to understand the significance of 
The emblems of the degree?
A Fellow Craft Mason must study them until the lesson learned is 
engraved upon his heart. PG 6,  4 

18.  What are the four rights of a Fellow Craft Mason?
To attend Lodge when opened in the Fellow Craft Degree.  To visit 
another Lodge opened in the Fellow Craft Degree. To be instructed and 
examined in the Fellow Craft Degree. To be advanced when proficient in 
the Fellow Craft Degree. PG 6,  5

19.  What are the responsibilities of a Fellow Craft Mason?
In addition to his responsibilities as an Entered Apprentice, he is to 
acquire knowledge and apply that knowledge to his duties in life. PG 6, 
 6


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QUESTIONS FOR THE MASTER MASON
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991


1.  What does this degree symbolize for man?

2.  What does the Lodge represent in this degree?

3.  To what do the symbols in this degree refer.

4.  What are the three things that the candidate is reminded of by his 
preparation for initiation into the sublime degree of a Master Mason?

  a.

  b.

5.  Of what are you reminded by your reception at the door?

6.  Explain the importance of the obligation.

7.  Explain clandestine lodges and clandestine Masons.

8.  What is non-age?

9.  What is dotage?

10.  Why are Signs, Tokens and Words important to Masons?

11.  The symbol of the Temple for each of us is?

12.  Who was Hiram Abif?

13.  What do we mean by Foreign Countries in Masonry?

14.  If a Mason lives according to the edicts of the Lodge, what are his 
wages?

15.  What are we trying to teach by the use of the three ruffians?

16.  What is the Masonic definition of Low Twelve?

17.  Who is the Lion of the tribe of Judah?

18.  What does the Masonic search for the Lost Word symbolize?

19.  Why do we use the sprig of Acacia?

20.  What are we symbolically trying to teach when we Raise to the 
sublime degree of Master Mason?

21.  What does each of the emblems of the third degree represent?

22.  What are the rights of a Master Mason?

23.  What are the responsibilities of a Master Mason?

24.  Balloting

  a. Who can vote? 

  b. Must you vote on every issue brought to a vote when you are 
attending Lodge? 

  c. Can you leave Lodge prior to casting your ballot? 

  d. When would you ever use a Black Cube in balloting? 

25.  Are you allowed to ask another Brother how he voted or answer a 
person who asks you how you voted? 

26. Why do we examine visiting Brethren if we have not sat in Lodge with 
them or if no one will vouch for them? 

27.  Who appoints and what are the duties of the investigating committee 
in reference to new candidates? 

28.  What are the financial responsibilities of a Master Mason? 

29.  There are four ways a membership in the Lodge can be terminated, 
name and define them below.

  a.

  b.

  c.

  d.

30.  After your late entrance into the Lodge, what is the procedure?

31.  How do we normally signify our vote on matters brought before the 
regular meeting?

32.  When do we use the written ballot?

33.  Name the elective officers.

34.  Name the appointed officers.

35.  Who appoints the officers in their appointed positions? 

36.  We are governed by Masonic Law handed down to us by what body? 

37.  Which members are entitled to attend the Annual Commnication of 
the Grand Lodge? 

38.  Who may vote at Grand Lodge? How many votes is each Lodge entitled? 

39.  Grand Lodge is divided into how many geographical divisions? 

40.  What are the responsibilities of the district inspectors? 

41.  What is your obligation to Grand Lodge? 


------------------------------------------------------------------------


ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS FOR THE MASTER MASON
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991


1.  What does this degree symbolize for man? 
The immortality of the soul. PG 1,  1

2.  What does the Lodge represent in this degree?
The Sanctum Sanctorum, or Holy of Holies, of Solomons great Temple at 
Jerusalem. PG 1,  2 

3.  To what do the symbols in this degree refer?
The symbols refer to life, its tragedy, and its ultimate triumph. PG 1, 
 4 

4. What are the three things that the candidate is reminded of by his 
preparation for initiation into the sublime degree of a Master Mason? 
  A.   To be humble
  B.   His obligations become more extensive and binding each time he 
advances.
  C.   That he is able to attain many of his desires only with the 
assistance given him by a friend or brother   PG 1,  5

5.  Of what are you reminded by your reception at the door? 
You are reminded that all lessons of Freemasonry must be implanted in 
the heart if they are to serve a useful purpose and become a part of 
your way of life, and that you should practice these in your daily life. 
PG 2,  1

6.  Explain the importance of the obligation. 
By taking the Obligation, the candidate obtains the privileges, the 
rights and benefits of the Masonic fraternity. It is necessary that the 
Obligation is known and understood in order that it can be enjoyed and 
obeyed. PG 2,  2

7.  Explain clandestine Lodges and clandestine Masons. 
A clandestine Lodge is one that has not been issued a charter from a 
duly recognized Grand Lodge and therefore, you may not visit such a 
Lodge. One who belongs to a clandestine Lodge is a Clandestine Mason and 
therefore, not entitled to visit your Lodge. A Master Mason from a 
regular Lodge should not conduct Masonic related discussions with a 
clandestine Mason. PG 2,  3

8.  What is non-age?
In the California jurisdiction, non-age in this Degree refers to one who 
is not yet 21 years of are. PG 2,  4

9. What is dotage? 
Dotage is a condition associated with old age. Being old does not bar 
someone from seeking membership, but we require that he be mentally 
alert and mentally healthy to take the Degrees of Masonry. PG 2,  4

10.  Why are Signs, Tokens and Words important to Masons? 
They provide modes of recognition. Also, each sign, token and word has a 
symbolic meaning which serves to enrich the mind and improve our lives 
as Masons. PG 2,  6

11.  Who was hiram abif? 
Hiram Abif was the son of a man of Tyre, and his mother was one of the 
daughters of the Tribe of Dan. Masonic tradition teaches us that he was 
sent by King Hiram of Tyre to assist King Solomon in building the 
Temple. PG 3,  2
 
12.  The symbol of the temple for each of us is?
Founded on the idea that man himself is a living Temple where God 
desires to reside.  Freemasonry tries to undertake the task of helping 
each of its members build a more stately mansion within themselves where 
God can reside. PG 3,  3

13.  What do we mean by foreign countries in Masonry? 
It is a symbolic place not a certain geographical location. Freemasonry 
itself, is a foreign country to every new member. By studying the 
writings and teachings of Freemasonry, you will find pleasant traveling. 
This will include history, philosophy, and many other areas leading to 
countless treasurers. Each of us must discover these treasurers for 
himself. They are some of the rewards of each Master Mason who travels 
in foreign countries. PG 4,  5

14.  If a Mason lives according to the edicts of the Lodge. What are his 
wages? 
The intangibles of love, friendship, confidence, respect, opportunity, 
the happy labor of achievement and association. These are the wages of a 
Master Mason who earns them. PG 5,  1

15.  What are we trying to teach by the use of the three ruffians? 
That there is no short cut to success. Only through honest labor and 
individual efforts will we obtain that which we seek. That we must 
always be on guard and not to allow the enemies that are within to gain 
control over our actions. PG 5,  2

16.  What is the Masonic definition of Low Twelve? 
Low twelve denotes midnight, the blackest time of the night. PG 5,  3

17.  Who is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah?
All who were Kings of the Tribe of Judah. This phrase was also one of 
the King Solomons official titles. 
PG 5,  4

18.  What does the Masonic search for the Lost Word symbolize? 
The Masonic search for the Word symbolizes the search for truth, more 
particularly Divine Truth. We must always search diligently for truth, 
and never permit prejudice, passions, or conflict of interest, to hinder 
us in that search. PG 6,  1

19. Why do we use the sprig of Acacia? 
The sprig of acacia is used because it signifies immortality. PG 6,  3

20. What are we symbolically trying to teach when we Raise to the 
sublime degree of Master Mason? 
That by practicing the teachings of Masonry, we may in old age enjoy the 
happy reflections consequent on a well-spent and properly directed life, 
and die in the hope of a glorious immortality. PG 6,  5

21. What does each of the emblems of the third degree represent? 
The Three Pillars representing wisdom, strength and beauty are the three 
great supports of Masonry. The Three Steps represent youth, manhood and 
age. The Pot of Incense teaches us to be pure and blameless in our inner 
lives.  The Bee Hive recommends the practice of that virtue of Industry 
and teaches us that we should be industrious, never sitting down while 
our fellow creatures are in need of assistance. And that he who does not 
endeavor to improve  himself is not worthy of our protection as Masons. 
The Book of Constitutions guarded by the Tylers Sword represent law and 
order. The Sword Pointing to the Naked Heart represents Justice. The All 
Seeing-Eye reminds us that our every action is observed by God. The 
Anchor and Ark is the security and stability that is gained by a life 
grounded in truth and faith. The Forty Seventh Problem of Euclid reminds 
us that ignorance is one of the greatest enemies we must face. The Hour 
Glass reminds us that time is swiftly passing by. The Scythe represents 
that with the passing of time, our lives and our work will soon be 
ended. What ever we hope to achieve must be accomplished without delay. 
PG 7,  2

22. What are the rights of a Master Mason?
The rights of a Master Mason consist of Masonic Relief, visitation and 
burial. PG 8,  1

23. What are the responsibilities of a Master Mason? 
The constant responsibility of a Master Mason is to preserve the 
reputation of the Fraternity unsullied. Leading a good life is the best 
means of carrying through our individual responsibility to our Lodge and 
our Craft. The conduct of each Master mason is strictly his own 
responsibility. He should choose the course which will bring credit to 
himself and honor to the Fraternity. PG 8,  5

24.  Balloting 
  A.   Who can vote? 
Only members in good standing of the Lodge. PG 9,  2
  B.   Must you vote on every issue brought to a vote when attending 
Lodge? 
No member present can be excused from balloting on any question before 
the Lodge. PG 9,  2
  C.   Can you leave the Lodge prior to casting your ballot? 
No member is allowed to retire from the Lodge to avoid casting his 
ballot. PG 9,  2
  D.   When would you ever use a Black Cube in balloting? 
If you know of some good reason to indicate the petitioner is unworthy, 
for strictly Masonic reasons not personal reasons. Examine your own 
motives and be sure the ballot you are about to cast will do justice to 
the candidate and benefit the Lodge. PG 9,  2

25.  Are you allowed to ask another Brother how he voted or answer a 
person who asks you how you voted? 
The right to Secrecy of the Ballot is guaranteed by Masonic Law. No 
Brother should disclose how he voted and no Brother shall inquire into 
how another Brother voted. PG 9,  2

26.  Why do we examine visiting Brethren if we have not sat in Lodge 
with them or if no one will vouch for them? 
To satisfy the Lodge members that the visitor is a Mason in good 
standing of a regular Lodge in the Degree of that in which the Lodge is 
opened. PG 9,  3

27.  Who appoints and what are the duties of the investigating committee 
in reference to new candidates? 
The Master appoints the investigating Committee. The duties of the 
committee are to make a complete and impartial inquiry into the 
petitioners character and determine his worthiness to become a Mason. 
PG 9,  5

28.  What are the financial responsibilities of a Master Mason? 
They are two fold. First, in the area of mandatory support: Lodge dues 
must be paid annually. Second, in the area of voluntary support: 
contributions to the Masonic Home Endowment Fund, distressed worthy 
Brothers, support to other Masonic organizations and causes as desired. 
PG 10,  2

29.  There are four ways a membership in the Lodge can be terminated.  
Name and define them below. 
  A. DEMIT    Request a demit to transfer to another Lodge when a member 
relocates to a new area. Plural membership is belonging to more that one 
Lodge within a Jurisdiction. Dual membership is to be a member of a 
Lodge in two different jurisdictions. PG 10,  4 &  5
  B. SUSPENSION    You can be suspended for nonpayment of dues or 
unmasonic conduct. You can be reinstated by paying back dues at anytime. 
PG 10,  4 &  5
  C. EXPULSION    A trial verdict of expulsion may be appealed to the 
Grand Lodge. If the verdict is upheld the member is expelled from the 
Lodge and all other Masonic organizations. PG 10,  4 &  5
D. DEATH    When a member is listed as deceased, he is no longer an 
active member of the Lodge. The unused portion of his dues is pro-rated 
and remitted to his estate. PG 10,  4 &  5

30.  After your late entrance into the Lodge. What is the procedure?
You should approach the Alter; salute the Master, using the due guard 
and sign for the degree which Lodge is at labor and then be seated. PG 
11,  2

31.  How do we normally signify our vote on matters brought before the 
regular meeting? 
Voting is usually performed by saying aye or nay. PG 11,  3

32.  When do we use the written ballot? 
At the annual meeting for the election of Officers, a written ballot is 
utilized. PG 11,  3

33.  Name the elective officers. 
The Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Secretary and 
Treasurer are the elective Officers of the Lodge. PG 11,  4

34.  Name the appointed officers.
Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, Chaplain, Marshal, Senior and Junior 
Wardens, Tyler and Organist are the appointive Officers of the Lodge. PG 
11,  4

35.  Who appoints the officers in their appointed positions?
The Worshipful Masters assigns the Appointive Officers. PG 11,  4

36.  We are governed by Masonic law handed down to us by what body? 
The Grand Lodge of California. PG 11,  5

37.  Which members are entitled to attend the Annual Communication of 
the Grand Lodge? 
All registered Master Masons may attend the Annual Communication. PG 14, 
 1

38.  Who may vote at the Grand Lodge? How many votes is each Lodge 
entitled? 
All Grand Lodge Officers, with the exception of the Grand Tyler, each 
Past Elected Grand Officer, each Lodge Master and Warden. The Past 
Masters of each Lodge are entitled to one collective vote. Each Lodge is 
entitled to four total votes. PG 14,  3

39.  Grand Lodge is divided into how many geographical divisions? 
The California jurisdiction is divided into six Divisions. PG 15,  2

40.  What are the responsibilities of the district inspectors? 
Their responsibilities are two fold: 
  First, to instruct in the adopted ritual of the Grand Lodge as taught 
by the Grand Lecturer; 
  Second, to advise and assist in the leadership training and proper 
administration of each Lodge. PG 15,  3

41.  What is your obligation to the Grand Lodge?
To continue with your degrees and become an active Master Mason of your 
Lodge and to obey all the laws adopted by the Grand Lodge. PG 15,  5
