M.M. Taylor’s Ritual of Craft Masonry
Second Degree – Fellow Craft

 
2000

Opening the Lodge in the Second Degree
 
The Lodge being open in the First Degree, W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k, which is answered by S.W. and J.W.
W.M.: Bro. J.W. who rises and gives Sp and Sn of First Degree, are all those present F.C.Fs.? J.W. cuts Sn and remains standing.
J.W.: Brethren, have you all taken your Second Degree?
J.W. receiving no reply, gives Sp and Sn of First Degree: W.M., silence implies assent.
Cuts Sn and sits.
W.M. sounds his Gavel one k, which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Brethren, assist me to open the Lodge in the Second Degree.
All rise.
W.M.: Bro. J.W. who gives Sp. and Sn. of First Degree, what is the first care of every F.C.F.?
J.W.: To see that the Lodge is properly Tyled.
W.M.: Direct that duty to be done. J.W. cuts Sn.
J.W.: Bro. I.G. who advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of First Degree, see that the Lodge is properly Tyled. I.G. cuts Sn.
I.G. goes to the door, gives ks. of First Degree. T. answers with similar ks. I.G. advances onto edge of S.P and gives Sp and Sn of First Degree.
I.G.: Bro. J.W., the Lodge is properly Tyled. Cuts Sn and returns to his place.
J.W. gives ks., Sp and Sn of First Degree: W.M., the Lodge is properly Tyled. Cuts Sn.
W.M.: Bro. S.W. who gives Sp. and Sn. of First Degree, the next care?
S.W.: To see that the Brethren appear to order as Freemasons. Cuts Sn.
W.M.: To order, Brethren, as Freemasons.
All come to order with Sp and Sn of First Degree.
W.M.: Bro J.W., are you a F.C.F.?
J.W.: I am W.M., try me and prove me.
W.M.: By what instrument used in Architecture will you be proved?
J.W.: The Square.
W.M.: What is a Square?
J.W.: An angle of ninety degrees, or the fourth part of a circle.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., you being acquainted with the proper method will prove the Brethren Craftsmen and demonstrate that proof to me by copying their example.
J.W.: Brethren, it is the W.M.’s command that you prove yourselves Craftsmen.
All, except WM. and J. W., cut First Degree Sn. and give Sp. and Sn. of Second Degree.
J.W., having seen that the Second Degree Sp and Sn have been correctly given: W.M., the Brethren hove proved themselves Craftsmen and in obedience to your command, I copy their example. Cuts First Degree Sn and gives Sp and Sn of the Second Degree.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., I acknowledge the correctness of the Sn. Cuts First Degree Sn and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
W.M.: Brethren, before the Lodge is opened in the Second Degree, let us supplicate T.G.G.O.T.U. that the rays of Heaven may shed their benign influence to enlighten us in the paths of virtue and science.
ALL: So mote it be.
W.M.: Brethren, in the name of T.G.G.O.T.U, I declare the Lodge duly open all drop H Sn, on the Square all cut Sn of F, for the instruction and improvement of Craftsmen.
W.M. gives ks of Second Degree, followed by S.W. and J.W. I.G. goes to the door, gives ks of Second Degree and being answered similarly by T, returns to his place. During which time the S.D., assisted by the J.D., attends to the TB and both return to their places.
I.P.M. adjusts S. and Cs., arranges or displays the Working Tools of the Second Degree and returns to his place. W.M. then sits, after which the Brethren resume their seats.
 
 
Ceremony of Passing to the Second Degree
 
The Lodge being open in the Second Degree, the T., having prepared the Candidate, gives a report in the First Degree.
I.G. advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree: Bro. J.W., there is a report. I.G. holds Sn.
J.W., rises and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree: W.M., there is a report.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., enquire who wants admission. J.W. cuts Sn and sits.
J.W.: Bro. I.G., see who seeks admission. I.G. cuts Sn., goes to door and opens it.
I.G. speaks to T. across the threshold: Whom have you there?
T.: Bro. … Cand’s full name, who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry and has made such progress as he hopes will recommend him to be Passed to the Second Degree, for which ceremony he is properly prepared.
I.G.: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Second Degree?
T.: By the help of God, the assistance of the Square, and the benefit of the Pass Grip and Pass Word.
I.G.: Is he in possession of the Pass Grip and Pass Word?
T.: Try him. I.G. tests Cand. by T. placing Cand.’s right hand in that of I.G.; Cand gives P.G.,
T. guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
I.G.: What is this?
Cand. (T. dictates): The Pass Grip leading from the First to the Second Degree.
I.G.: What does this Pass Grip demand?
Cand. (T. dictates): A Pass Word.
I.G.: Give me that Pass Word.
Cand. (T dictates): ….
I.G.: Wait while I report to the W.M. locks door, advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
I.G.: W.M., Bro. … Cand.’s full name, who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry and has made such progress as he hopes will recommend him to be Passed to the Second Degree, for which ceremony he is properly prepared.
W.M.: How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Second Degree?
I.G.: By the help of God, the assistance of the Square, and the benefit of the Pass Grip and Pass Word.
W.M.: We acknowledge the propriety of the aid by which he seeks admission; do you, Bro. I.G., vouch that he is in possession of the Pass Grip and Pass Word?
I.G.: I do, W.M.
W.M.: Then admit him in due form. I.G. cuts Sn. WM. sounds his Gavel, one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W. Bro. Deacons.
I.G. goes to the door bearing S. and waits S.D., squaring the Lodge, is joined by J.D. in passing A.D.C. follows S.D. to W and places his Wand in J.D.’s stand. He puts k.s. in position and takes post at J.D.’s chair. Deacons go to the door I.G. opens door and applies S. to Cand.’s naked left breast. S.D. takes control of Cand. by holding his right hand and conducts him on to edge of S.P. while I.G., having locked the door, raises S. above his own head to show that Cand. has been
admitted ‘in due form.’ J.D. positions himself at left of Cand. and I.G. returns to his seat.
S.D. to Cand.: Salute the W.M. as an E.A.F.
S.D. prompting Cand. by demonstration, both Deacons and the Cand. give Sp and Sn of First Degree and cut Sn.
W.M.: Let the Candidate kneel, pause while Cand does so, Deacons assist Cand. while the blessing at Heaven is invoked in aid of our proceedings.
W.M. sounds his Gavel one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W. All rise and come to order with Sn of R. S.D. instructs Cand. to give Sn of R. The Deacons, standing slightly behind Cand, raise and arch their Wands above his head.
 
 
Prayer
 
W.M. or CHAPLAIN: We supplicate the continuance of Thine aid, O merciful Lord, on behalf of ourselves and of him who kneels before Thee; may the work begun in Thy Name, be continued to Thy Glory and be evermore established in us by obedience to Thy Divine precepts.
ALL: So mote it be. All drop Sn of R.
W.M.: Let the Candidate rise.
The Deacons lower their Wands and assist Cand. A.D.C. removes kneeling stool, recovers Wand and waits behind S.D. W.M. sits and Brethren resume their seats. S.D. takes Cand. by the right hand and commences to square the Lodge. A.D.C., with J.D. on his left, follows. When level with the Secretary’s table J.D. halts, turns right and squares Lodge to his seat. A.D.C. continues behind S.D. and Cand. to his seat in the SE.
S.D. to Cand. when approaching NE corner: Salute the W.M. as an E.A.F. in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn. of First Degree as they walk post W.M.; both cut Sn.
S.D., squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to right of J.W.
S.D.: Advance to the J.W. as such, showing the Sn. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn. of First Degree; both cut Sn, and communicating the Token and Word.
J.W. to Cand.: Have you anything to communicate?
Cand. S.D. dictates: I have.
J.W. rises and faces Cand., S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in that of J.W.; Cand gives G., S.D. guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
J.W.: What is this?
Cand. S.D. dictates: The Grip, or Token, of an E.A.F.
J.W.: What does this Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Word.
J.W.: Give me that Word, in this instance, freely and at length.
Cand., S.D. dictates: Boaz.
J.W.: Pass Boaz. Returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D. and sits.
S.D. and Cand. continue to square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. when approaching SW corner: Salute the S.W. as an E.A.F. in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn. of First Degree as they walk past S.W., both cut Sn.
On arriving at NW corner, S.D. and Cand. turn face W.M., and wait.
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k. which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Brethren, take notice, that Bro. … surname only, who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry, is now about to pass in view before you to show that he is a Candidate properly prepared to be Passed to the Second Degree.
S.D. takes Cand. by right hand and again commences to square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. when approaching NE corner: Salute the W.M. again as an E.A.F. in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn of First Degree as they walk past WM.; both cut Sn.
S.D. and Cand. continue to square the Lodge.
S.D. to Cand. at SE corner: Salute the J.W. again, as such, in passing. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sn of First Degree as they walk past J.W.; both cut Sn.
S.D. squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to right of S.W.
S.D.: Advance to the S.W. as such, showing the Sign S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of First Degree; both cut Sn, and communicating the Pass Grip and Pass Word you received from the W.M. previous to leaving the Lodge.
S.W. to Cand.: Have you anything to communicate?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I have.
S.W. rises and faces Cand., S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in that of S.W., Cand. gives P.G.,
S.D guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
S.W.: What is this?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Pass Grip leading from the First to the Second Degree.
S.W.: What does this Pass Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Pass Word.
S.W.: Give me that Pass Word.
Cand., S.D. dictates: Shibboleth.
S.W.: What does denote?
Cand., S.D. dictates: Plenty.
S.W.: And how depicted in a F.C.’s Lodge?
Cand., S.D. dictates: By an ear of corn, near a fall of water.
S.W.: Pass, Shibboleth. Returns Cand.’s hand to S.D. and remains standing. S.D. conducts Cand by an anti-clockwise movement to left of S.W. and places Cand.’s right hand in S.W.’s left hand, S.D.
ensures that Cand. faces E and then takes position at left of Cand.
S.W., raises Cand.’s right hand and, without taking Sp, gives Sn of F: W.M., I present to you Bro. … surname only, a Candidate properly prepared to be passed to the Second Degree.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., direct the S.D. to instruct the Candidate to advance to the E by the proper steps. S.W. drops Sn of F, returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D and sits S.D. with Cand on his left, advances on to edge of S. P.
S.W.: Bro S.D., who, without taking Sp, gives Sn of F and turns his head to the right, it is the W.M.’s command that you instruct the Candidate to advance to the E by the proper steps. S.D. drops Sign of Fidelity.
S.D. conducts Cand. towards the E to within about two yards of the NE corner of the Lodge and turns with Cand. to face S, meanwhile, J.D., squaring the Lodge, takes position at left of Cand. S.D. then moves to midway across the Lodge and turns to face Cand.
S.D. to Cand.: The method of advancing from W to E in this Degree is by four steps as though a.t.a.w.s.; for your instruction I will go through them, after which, please copy me. S.D. returns to position at right of Cand. and faces S: Place the left foot across the Lodge, right foot down the Lodge, heel to heel so as to form a Square. Step off with the left foot. S.D. then demonstrates the steps, raising the ks appropriately. On arriving at pedestal he bows the head to W.M, turns right, and squaring the Lodge opposite Cand., returns to his former position facing S. Taking Cand.’s right hand in his left, S.D. instructs Cand. how to place his foot and together they take the four steps so that Cand. arrives directly in front of W.M. J.D. squaring the Lodge at NE corner, takes position at left of Cand.
W.M. to Cand.: As in every Degree the secrets of Freemasonry are to be kept separate and distinct, another Obligation is now required of you, in many respects similar to the former; are you willing to take it?
Cand.: I am. Prompted by S.D., if necessary.
W.M.: Then you will kneel on your right knee. Deacons assist Cand., place your left foot so as to form a Square, place your right hand on the Volume of the Sacred Law, while your left arm will be supported in the angle of the Square. W.M. rises, I.P.M. passes S. to W.M. who places it under Cand.’s left elbow, the J.D. having assisted Cand. to raise his left arm to the appropriate position, J.D. with right hand supports the S. in this position throughout the Obligation.
W.M. sounds his Gavel one k, which is answered by S.W. and J.W. The Brethren rise and, without taking Sp, all come to order with Sn of F. The Deacons, standing slightly behind Cand., raise and arch their Wands above his head.
 
 
Obligation
 
W.M. to Cand.: Stating your names at length, repeat after me: I, … Cand. states his full name, in the presence of T.G.G.O.T.U. and of this worthy and worshipful Lodge of F.C.Fs., regularly held, assembled, and properly dedicated, of my own free will and accord, do hereby and hereon W.M. presses the fingers of his left hand on Cand.’s right hand, then presses the palm of his left hand on V.S.L., solemnly promise and swear that I will always heel, conceal, and never reveal, any or either of the secrets or mysteries of, or belonging to, the Second Degree in Freemasonry, denominated the Fellow Craft, to him who is but an E.A., any more than I would either of them, to the uninitiated or popular world, who are not Freemasons. I further solemnly promise to act as a true and faithful Craftsman, to answer Signs, obey Summonses, and maintain the principles inculcated in the former Degree. These several points I solemnly swear to observe, without evasion, equivocation, or mental reservation of any kind. So help me A.G. and keep me steadfast in this, the Solemn Obligation of a F.C.F. W.M. here removes the S. from Cand.’s l.e., returns it to I.P.M. and lowers Cand.’s l.a.
W.M.: As a pledge of fidelity and to render what you have repeated a Solemn Obligation which might otherwise be considered only a serious promise, you will seal it with your lips twice on the Volume of the Sacred Law. Cand. does so, Deacons then lower their Wands and all drop Sn off.
W.M.: Your progress in Freemasonry is marked by the position of the Square and Compasses. When you were made an E.A.F., both points of the Compasses were hidden; in this Degree one is disclosed, implying that you are now midway in Freemasonry, superior to an E.A., but inferior to that which I trust will hereafter be communicated to you.
W.M. takes Cand.’s right hand in his own Rise, duly obligated, F.C.F. Deacons assist Cand.
W.M. sits and Brethren resume their seats. S.D. conducts Cand. by a clockwise movement to right of W.M. and both stand facing S. about three feet from him. J.D., squaring the Lodge, returns to his seat.
W.M.: Now that you have taken the Solemn Obligation of a F.C.F., I shall proceed to entrust you with the secrets of the Degree. You will therefore advance to me as at your Initiation, showing the Sign S.D. and Cand. give Sp and Sn of first Degree, both cut Sn; you will now take another short step towards me with your left foot, placing the heel of the right into its hollow as before S.D. and Cand. take Sp and W.M. points to Cand.’s feet. That, my Brother, is the second regular step in Freemasonry and it is in that position the secrets of the Degree are communicated. They consist, as in the former, of a Sign, Token, and Word, with this difference, that in this Degree the Sign is of a three-fold nature. W.M. rises, faces Cand. and takes Sp. Please copy me. The first part of this three-fold Sign is called the Sign of Fidelity and is given by placing the right hand, thumb extended to form a Square, over the left breast W.M. gives Sn of F., S.D. and Cand. copy him, emblematically to shield the repository of your secrets from the attacks of the insidious. The second part is called the Hailing Sign or Sign of Perseverance. and is given by elevating the left hand, thumb also extended to form a Square, thus W.M. gives H. Sn, S.D. and Cand. copy him. This took its rise at the time when Joshua fought the battles of the Lord, for it was in this position that he prayed fervently to the Almighty to continue the light of day until he had completed the overthrow of his enemies.
The third is the Penal Sign. and is given, after dropping the left hand to the side, by drawing the right hand (fingers clenched) sharply across the breast and drop it to the side also W.M. drops his left hand to his side and then gives P Sn, S.D. and Cand. copy him. This Penal Sign alludes to the symbolic penalty at one time included in the Obligation in this Degree. It implied that, no further demonstration of the Sns as a man of honour, a F.C.F. would rather have had his left breast laid open, the heart therefrom and given to the ravenous birds of the air or the devouring beasts of the field, as prey than improperly disclose the secrets of the Degree.
W.M.: The Grip, or Token, is given by a distinct pressure with the thumb on the second knuckle-joint of a brother’s right hand. S.D. places Cand.’s r.h. in that of W.M. who gives the G and ensures that Cand.’s t. is in correct position.
This Grip also demands a Word; a Word to be given and received with the same strict caution as that in the former Degree. It should never be given at length, as you are about to receive it, but always by letter or syllable. except at certain times.
To enable you to do this I will tell you the Word; it is Jachin.
Cand., prompted by S.D. repeats the W.: Jachin.
W.M. spells the W.:
Cand., prompted by S.D., repeats the spelling: ….
W.M.: As in the course of the ceremony you will be called upon for this Word, our Brother, the S.D., will dictate the answers you are to give.
What is this? W.M. emphasises the G.
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Grip, or Token, of a F.C.F.
W.M.: What does this Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Word.
W.M.: Give me that Word.
Cand., S.D. dictates: In this Degree, as in the former, I was taught to be cautious but I will letter or halve it with you.
W.M.: Halve it and you begin. S.D. dictates first half and Cand repeats it, W.M. responds with second half.
W.M.: This Word is derived from the right hand pillar that stood at the porch entrance of King Solomon’s Temple, so named after Jachin, a Priest, who officiated at its dedication. The import of the Word is ‘To Establish.’ Cand., prompted by S.D, repeats ‘T.E.’, and when conjoined with that in the former Degree ‘Strength.’ Cand. prompted by S D, repeats ‘S.’, for God said "In strength will I establish this mine house to stand firm for ever."
Pass Jachin. W.M. returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D. and sits.
S.D., squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to right of J.W.
S.D., gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree: Bro. J.W., I present to you Bro. … surname only, on his being Passed to the Second Degree.
J.W. to S.D.: I will thank Bro. … surname only to advance to me as a F.C.F., showing the Sn. S.D. cuts Sn and, instructing Cand. by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of Second Degree, both cut Sn.
J.W. to Cand: Have you anything to communicate?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I have.
J.W. rises and faces Cand., S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in that of J.W., Cand. gives G., S.D. guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
J.W.: What is this?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Grip, or Token, of a F.C.F.
J.W.: What does this Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Word.
J.W.: Give me that Word.
Cand., S.D. dictates: In this Degree, as in the former, I was taught to be cautious but I will letter or halve it with you.
J.W.: Letter it and you begin. S.D. dictates first letter and subsequent alternate letters, Cand. repeating appropriately, J.W. responding in turn with second letter and subsequent alternate letters.
J.W.: Pass, Jachin. Returns Cand.’s right hand to S.D. and sits. S.D., squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to right of S.W.
S.D. gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree: Bro, S.W., I present to you Bro. … surname only, on his being Passed to the Second Degree.
S.W. to S.D.: I will thank Bro. … surname only, to advance to me as a F.C.F., first as an E.A., showing the Sn. S.D. cuts Sn and instructing Cand. by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of First Degree and cut Sn; both then give Sp of Second Degree.
S.W. to Cand.: What is that? Points to Cand.’s feet.
Cand., S.D. dictates: The second regular step in Freemasonry.
S.W.: Do you bring anything with you?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I do. S.D. instructing Cand. by demonstration, both give Sn of F.
S.W.: What is that?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Sign of Fidelity, emblematically to shield the repository of my secrets from the attacks of the insidious.
S.W.: Do you bring anything else?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I do. S.D. instructing Cand. by demonstration, both give H. Sign.
S.W.: What is that?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Hailing Sign or Sign of Perseverance.
S.W.: When did it take its rise?
Cand., S.D. dictates: At the time when Joshua fought the battles of the Lord, for it was in this position that he prayed fervently to the Almighty to continue the light of day until he had completed the overthrow of his enemies.
S.W.: Do you bring anything further?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I do. S.D. instructing Cand. by demonstration, both drop left hand to the side and give P. Sn.
S.W.: What is that?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Penal Sign.
S.W.: To what does it allude?
Cand., S.D. dictates: To the symbolic penalty at one time included in the Obligation in this Degree which implied that, as a man of honour S.D. instructing Cand. by demonstration, both place the right hand, thumb extended to form a Square over the left breast, a F.C.F. would rather have had his heart torn from his breast S.D. instructing Cand. by demonstration, both give P.Sn. than improperly disclose the secrets of the Degree.
S.W.: Have you anything to communicate?
Cand., S.D. dictates: I have.
S.W. rises and faces Cand.; S.D. places Cand.’s right hand in that of S.W., Cand gives G, S.D. guiding Cand.’s thumb to correct position.
S.W.: What is this?
Cand., S.D. dictates: The Grip, or Token, of a F.C.F.
S.W.: What does this Grip demand?
Cand., S.D. dictates: A Word.
S.W.: Give me that Word.
Cand., S.D. dictates: In this Degree, as in the former, I was taught to be cautious but I will letter or halve it with you.
S.W.: Halve it and you begin. S.D. dictates first half and Cand. repeats it; S.W. responds with second half
S.W.: Whence is this Word derived?
Cand., S.D. dictates: From the right hand pillar that stood at the porch entrance of King Solomon’s Temple, so named after Jachin, a Priest who officiated at its dedication.
S.W.: The import of the Word?
Cand., S.D. dictates: To establish.
S.W.: And what when conjoined with that in the former Degree?
Cand., S.D. dictates: Strength, for God said "In strength will I establish this mine house to stand firm for ever."
S.W.: Pass Jachin. Returns Cand.’s hand to S.D. and remains standing.
S.D. conducts Cand. by an anti-clockwise movement to left of S.W. and places Cand.’s right hand in S.W.’s left hand, S.D. ensures that Cand. faces E and then takes position at left of Cand.
S.W. raises Cand.’s right hand and gives Sp and Sn of F: W.M., I present to you Bro. … surname
Only, on his being Passed to the Second Degree, for some mark of your favour.
D.C. comes forward bearing F.C.’s badge on a cushion and presents it to W.M.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., I delegate you to invest our Brother with this W.M. rises, picks up badge and exhibits it to the Brethren, the distinguishing badge of a F.C.F. S.W. cuts Sn.
W.M. replaces badge on cushion and sits, D.C. carries cushion to S.W., who, having released
Cand.’s hand picks up badge; S.D. turns Cand. to face S.W. and as S.W. places new badge in position S.D. withdraws the E.A. badge and places it on the cushion held by the D.C. who has moved across to receive it. S.D. then assists S.W. if necessary. Meanwhile D.C. returns to his seat, squaring the Lodge.
S.W., holding right hand lower corner of Cand.’s badge with his left hand: Bro. … surname only, by command of the W.M. I invest you with the distinguishing badge of a F.C.F., to mark the progress you have made in the science.
Please pay attention to the W.M. S.W. sits.
S.D. again taking charge of Cand., conducts him onto edge of S.P. and both face E.
W.M.: I will state that the badge with which you have now been invested points out that, as a Craftsman, you are expected to make the liberal arts and sciences your future study, that you may the better be enabled to discharge your duties as a Freemason, and to estimate the wonderful works of the Almighty.
W.M.: Bro. S.D. who gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, place our Brother in the SE part of the Lodge. S.D. cuts Sn.
S.D., squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to SE corner of S.P. and both face N. S.D. on Cand.’s right and slightly behind him.
S.D. to Cand.: Right foot across the Lodge, left foot down the Lodge, heel to heel so as to form a Square, S.D. instructing Cand. by demonstration, both place feet appropriately. Please pay attention to the W.M.
 
 
Charge
 
W.M.: Masonry being a progressive science, when you were made an E.A.F. you were placed in the NE part of the Lodge to show that you were newly admitted; you are now placed in the SE part to mark the progress you have made in the science. You now stand, to all appearance, a just and upright F.C.F. and I give it to you in terms of strong recommendation ever to continue and act as such, and as I trust the import of the former Charge neither is, nor ever will be, effaced from your memory, I shall content myself with observing that, as in the former Degree you were made acquainted with the principles of moral truth and virtue, you are now expected to extend your researches into the hidden mysteries of nature and science.
W.M.: Please step this way.
S.D. conducts Cand. to front of W.M.’s pedestal; W.M. rises.
W.M.: I now present to your notice the working tools of a F.C.E; they are the Square, the Level, and the Plumb Rule. I.P.M. hands the appropriate tool to W.M. who shows each one in turn to Cand and places it on top of pedestal. The Square W.M. picks up S. and applies it to the r.h. corner of the pedestal is to try whilst constructing rectangular corners of buildings and to assist in bringing rude matter into due form. W.M. replaces S. on pedestal and picking up L., applies it to surface of pedestal. The Level is to lay levels and to prove horizontals; W.M. without relinquishing L., picks up P.R. and applies it to broad face of L. and the Plumb Rule to try and to adjust uprights whilst fixing them on their proper bases replaces L. and P.R. on pedestal. However, as we are not operative, but free and accepted, or speculative Masons, we apply these tools to morals.
W.M.: in this sense the Square W.M. displays it teaches us to regulate our lives and actions according to Masonic line and rule, and to harmonise our conduct so as to render us acceptable to that Divine Being from whom all goodness springs and to whom we must give an account of all our actions replaces S. on pedestal. The Level W.M. displays it. demonstrates that we have all sprung from the same stock, are partakers of the same nature, and sharers in the same hope, and although distinctions among men are necessary to preserve subordination, yet ought no eminence of situation cause us to forget that we are Brothers and that he who is on the lowest spoke of fortune’s wheel is equally entitled to our regard, for a time will come, and the wisest of us knows not how soon, when all distinctions save those of goodness and virtue shall cease, and death, the grand leveller of all human greatness, will reduce us to the same state replaces L on pedestal. The infallible Plumb Rule W.M. displays it. which, like Jacob’s ladder, connects Heaven and Earth, is the criterion of rectitude and truth. It teaches us to walk justly and uprightly before God and man, turning neither to the right nor to the left from the strict path of virtue; not to be an enthusiast, persecutor, slanderer or reviler of religion; not bending towards avarice, injustice, malice, revenge, nor the envy and contempt of mankind, but giving up every selfish consideration which might have a tendency to injure others. To steer the barque of life o’er the rough sea of passion without quitting the helm of rectitude is the highest perfection to which human nature can attain.
W.M. picks up L. and applies P.R. to its broad face.
And as the builder raises his column by the aid of the Level and Plumb Rule, so ought every Freemason to conduct himself through life; to observe a due medium between avarice and profusion, to hold the scales of justice with an equipoise, to make his passions and prejudices coincide with the strict line of his duty and in all his pursuits to have eternity in view replaces L. and P.R. on pedestal. Thus the Square W.M. points to it teaches morality, the Level again points equality, and the Plumb Rule again points justness and uprightness of life and actions, so that by Square conduct W.M picks up S. with right hand, Level steps picks up L. with left hand and transfers it to right hand, and upright intentions picks up P.R. with left hand and transfers it to right hand, we hope to ascend raises right hand, still holding working tools, towards Heaven to those blessed mansions whence all goodness emanates. W.M. turns working tools to I.P.M.
W.M.: You are now at liberty to retire in order to restore to yourself your personal comforts and on your return to the Lodge I may call your attention to a Charge and to an explanation of the Tracing Board, should time permit. And Bro. … surname only, I congratulate you on completing this, your second regular step in Freemasonry. W.M. sits.
S.D., squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to NW corner of S.P., and. by a clockwise movement, both face E.
S.D. to Cand.: Salute the W.M. as a F.C.F., first as an E.A. S.D. prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of First Degree and cut Sn, both then give Sp and Sn of Second Degree and cut Sn.
S.D. conducts Cand. to the door which has been opened by I.G. and Cand. leaves the Lodge to re-attire. I.G. locks door and both S.D. and I.G. return to their seats.
When Cand. is ready to re-enter the Lodge, T. gives a report one k.
I.G. advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree: Bro. J.W., there is a report.
J.W., having obtained silent consent from W.M., gives one k. I.G. cuts Sn, goes to the door and opens it.
I.G. speaks to T. across the threshold: Whom have you there?
T.: Bro. … surname only on his return.
I.G.: Wait while I report to the W.M. Locks door, advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
I.G.: W.M., Bro. … surname only on his return.
W.M.: Admit him Bro. I.G. I.G. cuts Sn. W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W. Bro. S.D. I.G. goes to the door and waits. S.D., squaring the Lodge, goes to the door which is opened by I.G., Cand. enters and is conducted by S.D. on to edge of S.P., both face E; I.G. locks door and returns to his seat.
S.D. to Cand.: Salute the W.M. as a F.C.F. S.D prompting by demonstration, both give Sp and Sn of Second Degree and cut Sn.
W.M.: Bro. S.D. who gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, place our Brother in the centre of the Lodge. S.D. cuts Sn. S.D, squaring the Lodge at Secretary’s table, conducts Cand. to appropriate place and both stand facing W.M.
 
 
Charge
 
W.M.: Bro. … surname only, now that you have advanced to the Second Degree, we congratulate you on your elevation. It is unnecessary to recapitulate the duties which, as a Freemason, you are now bound to discharge, or enlarge on the necessity of a strict adherence to them, as your own experience must have established their value. Your past behaviour and regular deportment have merited the honour which we have conferred and in your new character it is expected that you will not only conform to the principles of the Order but steadily persevere in the practice of every virtue. The study of the liberal arts, which tends so effectually to polish and adorn the mind, is earnestly recommended to your consideration, especially the science of Geometry which is established as the basis of our Art. As the solemnity of our ceremonies requires a serious deportment, you are to be particularly attentive to your behaviour in our regular assemblies; you are to preserve our ancient usages and customs sacred and inviolable and induce others, by your example, to hold them in veneration.
The laws and regulations of the Order you are strenuously to support and maintain. You are not to palliate or aggravate the offences of your Brethren, but in the decision of every trespass against our rules, judge with candour, admonish with friendship, and reprehend with mercy. As a Craftsman, in our private assemblies you may offer your sentiments and opinions on such subjects as are regularly introduced in the Lecture, under the superintendence of an experienced Master, who will guard the Landmarks against encroachment. By this privilege you may improve your intellectual powers, qualify yourself to become a useful member of society and, like a skilful Brother, strive to excel in what is good and great. You are to duly honour and obey all regular signs and summonses, given and received. You are to encourage industry and reward merit, supply the wants and relieve the necessities of Brethren and Fellows to the utmost of your power and ability, and on no account to wrong them, or see them wronged, but timely to apprise them of approaching danger and to view their interests as inseparable from your own. Such, my Brother, is the nature of your engagements as a F.C. and these duties you are bound by the most sacred ties to observe.
 
 
Explanation of the Second Tracing Board
 
W.M.: When the Temple at Jerusalem was completed by King Solomon, supported by Hiram, King of Tyre, and aided by Hiram Abiff, its costliness and splendour became objects of admiration to the surrounding nations and its fame spread to the remotest parts of the then-known world. There was nothing however in connection with this magnificent structure more remarkable, or that more particularly struck the attention, than the two great Pillars which stood at the porchway entrance. That on the left was called Boaz, which denotes ‘In Strength’, that on the right Jachin, which denotes ‘To Establish.’, and when conjoined ‘Stability’, for God said "In strength will I establish this mine house to stand firm for ever."
The height of these Pillars was seventeen and a half cubits each, their circumference twelve, their diameter four; they were formed hollow, the better to serve as archives to Freemasonry, for therein were deposited the constitutional rolls. Being formed hollow, their outer rim or shell was four inches or a hand’s breadth in thickness. They were made of molten brass and were cast in the clay ground on the banks of the Jordan, between Succoth and Zeredathah, where King Solomon ordered those and all his holy vessels to be cast; the superintendent of the casting was Hiram Abiff. These Pillars were adorned with two chapiters, each five cubits high; the chapiters were enriched with net-work, lily-work, and pomegranates; net-work, from the connection of its meshes, denotes unity; lily-work, from its whiteness, peace; and pomegranates, from the exuberance of their seed, plenty. There were two rows of pomegranates on each chapiter, one hundred in a row. They were further adorned with two spherical balls on which were delineated maps of the celestial and terrestrial globes, pointing out ‘Masonry universal’, and they were considered finished when the net-work or canopy was thrown over them. They were set up as a memorial to the Children of Israel of that miraculous pillar of fire and cloud which had two wonderful effects, the fire giving light to the Israelites and facilitating their escape from their Egyptian bondage, while the cloud proved darkness to Pharaoh and his followers in their attempt to overtake them.
K.S. ordered the pillars to be placed at the entrance of the Temple as the most proper and conspicuous situation, that the Children of Israel might have the happy deliverance of their forefathers before their eyes in going to and returning from Divine worship.
At the building of King Solomon’s Temple an immense number of artificers were employed, consisting of E.As. and F.Cs. The E.As. received a weekly allowance of corn, wine and oil; the F.Cs. were paid their wages in specie and went into the middle chamber of the Temple to receive them; they got there by the porchway entrance. After our ancient Brethren had entered the porch they arrived at the Foot of the winding staircase which led to the middle chamber. Their ascent was opposed by the J.W. who demanded of them the Pass Grip and Pass Word leading from the First to the Second Degree.
The Pass Grip you are all in possession of, and the Pass Word you will recollect is which denotes ‘Plenty’ and is here depicted by an ear of corn near a fall of water.
The word Shibboleth takes its rise from the time that an army of Ephraimites crossed the river Jordan in a hostile manner against Jephthah, the renowned Gileaditish general. The reason they assigned for this unfriendly visit was that they had not been called out to partake of the honours of the Ammonitish war, but their true aim was to share the rich spoils with which, in consequence of that war, Jephthah and his army were then laden. The Ephraimites, who had long been considered a clamorous and turbulent people, now broke out into open violence and after many severe taunts to the Gileadites in general, threatened to destroy their victorious commander and his house with fire. Jephthah, on his part, tried all lenient means to appease them, but, finding these ineffectual, he had recourse to rigorous ones. He therefore drew out his army, gave the Ephraimites battle, defeated them and put them to flight. To render his victory decisive and to secure himself from like molestation in the future, he sent detachments of his army to secure the passages of the Jordan over which he knew the insurgents must of necessity attempt to go in order to regain their own country. He gave strict orders to his guards that if a fugitive should pass that way owning himself an Ephraimite he should immediately be slain, but if he prevaricated or said ‘nay’, a test was to be applied which was to pronounce the word Shibboleth. They, from a defect in aspiration peculiar to their dialect, could not pronounce it properly but called it Sibboleth. This slight deviation discovered their country and cost them their lives and Scripture informs us that there fell on that day, on the field of battle and on the banks of the Jordan, forty and two thousand Ephraimites. And as was then used as a test word to distinguish friend from foe, King Solomon afterwards ordered that it be adopted as a Pass Word to prevent any unqualified person ascending the winding staircase which led to the middle chamber of the Temple.
Our ancient Brethren having given these convincing proofs to the J.W., he said "Pass ...." They then passed up the winding staircase, consisting of three, five, seven, or more steps; three to rule a Lodge, five to hold a Lodge, and seven or more to make it perfect. The three who rule a Lodge are the W.M. and the two Wardens; the five that hold a Lodge are the W.M., the two Wardens and two F.Cs.; the seven that make it perfect are two E.As. added to the former five. Three rule a Lodge because at the building of King Solomon’s Temple there were but three Grand Masters who bore sway, namely, Solomon, King of Israel, Hiram, King of Tyre, and Hiram Abiff; five hold a Lodge in allusion to the five noble orders of Architecture, which are the Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite; seven or more make a perfect Lodge because King Solomon was seven years and upwards in building, completing, and dedicating the Temple at Jerusalem to God’s service; they have likewise a further allusion to the seven liberal arts and sciences, namely, Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music, and Astronomy.
When our ancient Brethren had gained the summit of the winding staircase they arrived at the door of the middle chamber, which they found open, but properly Tyled against all below the Degree of a F.C. by the S.W., who demanded of them the Sign, Token, and Word of that Degree. After they had given him these convincing proofs he said "Pass ...." They then passed into the middle chamber to receive their wages, which they did without scruple or diffidence. Without scruple, knowing that they were justly entitled to them, and without diffidence, from the great reliance they placed on the integrity of their employers in those days.
When they were in the middle chamber their attention was particularly arrested by certain Hebrew characters, which are here depicted by the letter G., W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W., all rise and come to order with Sn of R. alluding to God, T.G.G.O.T.U., to whom we must all submit and ought most humbly to adore. All drop Sn
of R and resume their seats; S.D., squaring the Lodge, conducts Cand. to a seat in the SE and then returns to his own seat.
 
 
Closing
 
W.M. sounds his Gavel, one k., which is answered by S.W. and J.W.: Brethren, assist in closing the Lodge in the Second Degree.
All rise.
W.M.: Bro. J.W. who gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, what is the constant care of every F.C.F.?
J.W.: To prove the Lodge close Tyled.
W.M.: Direct that duty to be done. J.W. cuts Sn.
J.W.: Bro. I.G. who advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, prove the Lodge close Tyled. I.G. cuts Sn, goes to the door and gives ks. of Second Degree. T. answers with similar ks. I.G. advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
I.G.: Bro. J.W., the Lodge is close Tyled. Cuts Sn and returns to his place.
J.W., gives ks., Sp and Sn of Second Degree: W.M., the Lodge is close Tyled. Cuts Sn.
W.M.: Bro. SW. who gives Sp and Sn of Second Degree, the next care?
S.W.: To see that the Brethren appear to order as Craftsmen. Cuts Sn.
W.M.: To order, Brethren, as Freemasons in the Second Degree. All come to order with Sp and Sn of Second Degree.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., in this position what have you discovered?
J.W.: The Sacred Symbol.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., where is it situated?
S.W.: In the centre of the building.
W.M.: Bro. J.W., to whom does it allude?
J.W.: To God, T.G.G.O.T.U.
W.M.: Then, Brethren, let us remember that wherever we are, or whatever we do, He is with us, His all-seeing eye observes us, and while we continue to act in conformity with the principles of the Craft, let us not fail to discharge our duty towards Him with fervency and zeal.
ALL: So mote it be.
W.M.: Bro. S.W., the labours of this Degree being ended, you have my command to close the Lodge. Holds Sn of F and with his left hand gives ks of Second Degree.
S.W.: Brethren, in the name of T.G.G.O.T.U. and by command of the W.M., I close all drop H.Sn. this F.C.’s Lodge. All cut Sn of F; S.W. gives ks. of Second Degree.
J.W.: Happy have we met, happy have we been, happy may we part, and happy meet again; and it is closed accordingly. Gives ks. of Second Degree.
I.G. goes to the door, gives ks. of Second Degree and being answered similarly by T, returns to his place. During which time the S.D., assisted by J.D. attends to TB and both return to their places. I.P.M. adjusts S. and Cs., replaces the Working Tools and returns to his place. W.M. then sits, after which the Brethren resume their seats.
W.M.: Bro. I.G. who advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of First Degree, admit all E.As. I.G. cuts Sn, goes to the door, opens it and calls for E.As. who enter the Lodge and, without giving Sp or Sn , return to their seats I.G. locks door, advances on to edge of S.P. and gives Sp and Sn of First Degree.
I.G.: W.M., all E.As. are admitted. Cuts Sn and returns to his seat.

Home