Wisdom of the East & Operative Roots
This seminal Chinese philosophical text of antiquity enunciates a "principle of the square" closely mirroring the Golden Rule.
What is "The Great Learning"?
In masonic ritual and historical tradition, the first grand lodge of its kind is symbolically ascribed to the porchway of this biblical structure built in Jerusalem.
What is King Solomon's Temple?
This ancient Chinese philosopher (372–289 BC) added to the philosophical framework by stating, "Ye who are engaged in the pursuit of wisdom must also use the compasses and square."
Who is Men Ke (Mencius)?
Celebrated in the first degree tracing board for his curious and masterly workmanship, he is the legendary master craftsman associated with the building of the first temple.
Who is Hiram Abif?
Demonstrating the grand scale of medieval European architecture, this massive German cathedral was built between 1248 and 1322.
What is Cologne Cathedral?
According to the Cooke Manuscript's telling of Lamech's children, all knowledge of the liberal arts was inscribed on these to survive destruction by fire or flood.
What are two pillars of stone?
This turbulent religious and political era in England and Europe led to a decline in great building projects and the gradual fading of pure operative stonemason guilds.
What is the 16th Century (or the Reformation of the Church)?
In Barbados, these two local areas take their names directly from masonic connections and lie extremely close to St. Mary's Church.
What is Mason Hall Street and Temple Yard?
Featuring prominently in historical trade and civic architecture, this famous London landmark served as a hub for medieval guild governance.
What is the Guildhall in London?
Formerly a masonic temple in Belleville/Spry Street, this site owned by the Central Bank of Barbados has been converted into a museum dedicated to freemasonry, education, and commerce.
What is the Spry Street Museum (the Old Temple)?