Navigating Masonic Etiquette Outside the Lodge
The Unspoken Code: A Deep Dive into the Principles and Lessons of "Behaviour when Brethren Meet Without Strangers, but Not in a Lodge Formed"
3. Behaviour when Brethren meet without strangers, but not in a Lodge formed.
YOU are to salute one another in a courteous manner, as you will be instructed, calling each other Brother, freely giving mutual instruction as shall be thought expedient, without being overseen or overheard, and without encroaching upon each other; or derogating from that respect which is due to any Brother, were he not a Mason; for though all Masons are, as Brethren, upon the same level, yet Masonry takes no honour from a man that he had before; nay, rather it adds to his honour, especially if he has deserved well of the Brotherhood, who must give honour to whom it is due, and avoid ill manners.
Why is how we behave towards fellow Masons outside of the lodge so crucial for us?
Because being a Freemason and living a Masonic life doesn’t start when the Lodge opens or end at last cheer of the Junior Wardens toast. It is instruction for how we behave in society, and prescribes the manner of behaviour that upholds the dignity, respect, and fraternal bonds that are the bedrock of Masonry.
Ignoring these principles can lead to a breakdown in the very fabric of our Brotherhood. A lack of courtesy, respect, or confidentiality not only tarnishes our individual reputations but also undermines the collective integrity of Masonry.
Let’s breakdown each verse to better understand the principles and lesson:
YOU are to salute one another in a courteous manner, as you will be instructed,
The term "salute" has its roots in Latin, signifying a formal greeting, however this is not to be confused with the kind of salute you’d give when the lodge is open. Rather, the instruction is to acknowledge another Brother. This can be as simple as the sign of fidelity given in passing, or extending the right hand of fellowship if you have time.
But, you are not to do it because you have to, or begrudgingly so, rather, the ‘courteous manner’ means polite. This verse underscores the importance of greeting each other respectfully. It sets the tone for all interactions, emphasising mutual respect.
calling each other Brother,
The word "Brother" is straightforward, and serves to remind us that we are all part of a larger family within Masonry, emphasising the unity and masonic equality that should exist among us.
freely giving mutual instruction as shall be thought expedient,
The words "freely" and "mutual" highlight the importance of a two-way exchange, without any constraints. "Instruction" and "expedient" together suggest that the knowledge shared should be both useful and timely. This encourages the free flow of beneficial information among Brethren.
However, it’s important to appreciate the nuance of ‘two-way’ exchange, meaning that in the outside world, how we behave is irrespective of Masonic Rank. If a Right Worshipful is not behaving according to our principles, it says the Apprentice is able to give this instruction freely.
without being overseen or overheard,
The terms "overseen" and "overheard" imply that when giving instruction to another Brother, it’s important to maintain privacy and confidentiality, and to do it away from others in order to avoid embarrassment.
and without encroaching upon each other,
The word "encroaching" has its roots in Old French and means to seize or intrude, serving as a reminder to respect each other's personal boundaries and freedoms.
or derogating from that respect which is due to any Brother, were he not a Mason,
"Derogating" comes from Latin and means to repeal or take away - similar to derogatory, meaning disrespectful . This part of the verse emphasises that respect should be maintained for all, whether they are Masons or not.
for though all Masons are, as Brethren, upon the same level,
The word "level" here implies equality among Men who are Masons. This reinforces the principle that all Masons are equal, regardless of their social or professional status outside of Masonry.
yet Masonry takes no honour from a man that he had before,
This part assures us that Masonry does not strip anyone of their pre-existing honours or achievements. It respects what you bring into the Brotherhood.
nay, rather it adds to his honour,
The word "nay" is an old term for no, used here for emphasis. Masonry enhances one's existing honour, especially through positive contributions to the Craft.
especially if he has deserved well of the Brotherhood,
The honour and respect one gains within Masonry are not just about active participation but also about the inherent qualities that make one deserving of being a Mason in the first place. This speaks to the core values and virtues that are expected of someone who is a part of our esteemed fraternity.
who must give honour to whom it is due,
This the importance of fairness and the moral obligation to give credit where it's due, reinforcing the values of justice and integrity.
and avoid ill manners.
"Ill manners" refers to bad behaviour or conduct. This serves as a final reminder to always act respectfully and courteously, both within and outside the Masonic setting.
So, how do we apply these principles in our daily lives?
Start with the basics: greet each other with genuine warmth and respect, as you would a family member. Share your knowledge freely but discreetly, always mindful of the setting. Respect personal boundaries, both physical and emotional. Treat everyone with the dignity they deserve, whether they're part of our Brotherhood or not.
Remember, the honour you bring into Masonry stays with you, and can even grow if you contribute positively to Freemasonry.
Always give credit where it's due and maintain good manners.
By living these principles, we not only elevate ourselves but also uphold the noble traditions of the Craft.
So Mote It Be.