Symbolism of the Entered Apprentice Degree
The Lodge System of Masonic Education
The Grand Lodge of Georgia F. & A. M.
An Interpretation of the Ritual
The Masonic Lodge room is represented as a symbol of the world.
The Ritual
The West Gate where the candidate enters represents his birth.
The RitualWhen the candidate salutes he signifies his
obedience to the Lodge officers.
The RitualWhen he follows his guide and fears no danger, he
expresses his trust in and loyalty to the fraternity.
The Ritual
He takes his first steps into a new life, leaving the darkness of the profane world for the light of Freemasonry.
Symbols of the First Degree
• The Hoodwink
• The Cable Tow
• The Lodge
• The Entrance
• The Reception
• Circumambulation
Symbols
• The East
• The Altar
• The Obligation
• The Great Lights
• The Lesser Lights
• The Word & Grip • The Apron• The Northeast Corner• The Working Tools• The Worshipful Master
Symbols
Hoodwink & Cable Tow
The Hoodwink represents the darkness of the uninitiated man.
The Cable Tow symbolizes the external restraints by which a man is controlled.
The Lodge
The Lodge symbolizes the world of Masonry.
Entering the Lodge
The Ceremony of Entrance signifies birth and entry into Masonry.
The Reception symbolizes the penalty for violations of the obligations.
Circumambulation
This Rite represents the progressive journey of Masonic life and the search for light.
The East & the Altar
The East is a symbol of the source of light.
The Altar is a symbol of the worship of God.
The Obligation
The Obligation signifies the nature and place of obligation in human life.
The Great Lights
• The Holy Bible
• The Square
• The Compass
The Lesser Lights
• The Sun• The Moon• The Worshipful Master
Word, Grip, & Apron
The Word & Grip are our means of recognition.
The Apron is the emblem of purity and blamelessness.
The Northeast Corner
Halfway between a place of darkness and the source of light.
The Working Tools
The Worshipful
Master
A symbol and executive officer of the Lodge.