Unlocking Masonic Secrets: The Grips, Words, and Signs Revealed
An exploration into the traditional methods of recognition used within Freemasonry's Blue Lodge degrees.
Key Highlights
- Modes of Recognition: Freemasonry utilizes a system of specific grips (handshakes), words (passwords), and signs (gestures) for members to identify one another and prove their standing within the fraternity.
- Degree Structure: These recognition methods are tied to the three core degrees of the Blue Lodge: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, with unique elements for each level.
- Historical & Symbolic Roots: Originating from the practical needs of medieval stonemasons, these practices evolved into symbolic tools representing brotherhood, trust, morality, and the progressive lessons taught within Freemasonry.
Historical Roots and Purpose of Masonic Recognition
The tradition of using distinct handshakes, words, and gestures within Freemasonry is not arbitrary but deeply rooted in history and symbolism. Understanding this background provides context for their continued use today.
Historical illustration depicting a Masonic handshake, symbolizing fraternity and recognition.
From Operative to Speculative Masonry
The origins trace back to the era of operative stonemasons during the Middle Ages. Traveling craftsmen needed reliable methods to prove their qualifications and skill level when seeking work at new construction sites, like cathedrals. Secret grips and words served as credentials, ensuring that only genuinely skilled masons could access employment and the fellowship of the guild. They functioned much like a medieval form of identification or certification.
As Freemasonry transitioned from an operative craft guild ("operative Masonry") to a philosophical and fraternal organization ("speculative Masonry") from the 17th century onwards, these practical methods of recognition were retained. However, their purpose shifted. They became part of the fraternity's rituals and symbolic teachings, used to identify members, convey rank, and reinforce the moral and ethical lessons associated with each degree.
The Symbolic Meaning
Beyond simple identification, these methods carry significant symbolic weight within Freemasonry. The handshake, or grip, is often seen as embodying principles of brotherhood, fidelity, and trust. It represents the joining of individuals in a common pursuit of moral and intellectual development. The hand itself is a symbol of human action; thus, the exchange of grips can represent a commitment to virtuous conduct ("pure hands for pure actions").
The words serve as symbolic keys, unlocking passage between degrees and reminding the Mason of the specific lessons learned. The signs, often alluding to the symbolic penalties found in traditional obligations, act as visual reminders of the seriousness of a Mason's commitments to the fraternity's principles, such as secrecy and integrity. Together, these elements form a unique language understood by members, fostering unity and preserving the traditions of the craft.
The Three Degrees: Grips, Words, and Signs Explained
The core of Craft or Blue Lodge Freemasonry consists of three degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Each degree represents a stage in a Mason's journey and has its own distinct methods of recognition, taught during the respective initiation ceremonies. While specifics are traditionally guarded, commonly referenced descriptions based on historical documents and ritual exposures provide insight.
A lapel pin depicting the symbolic Masonic handshake, often associated with fraternity.
Entered Apprentice (1st Degree)
This is the introductory degree, symbolizing birth or the beginning of the Masonic journey towards enlightenment.
The Grip
The Entered Apprentice grip is generally described as being given by pressing the thumb firmly against the top of the first knuckle joint of the fellow Mason's right index finger during a handshake. It's the most basic grip, signifying initial recognition.
The Word (Password)
The traditional password for this degree is "Boaz." This name refers to one of the two massive bronze pillars that stood at the entrance of King Solomon's Temple, symbolizing strength.
The Sign
The sign often involves a gesture made with the right hand, sometimes placed over the heart or chest, symbolizing the sincerity expected of an Apprentice. Another associated sign historically relates to the symbolic penalty of the obligation, such as drawing the hand across the throat.
Fellow Craft (2nd Degree)
This degree represents the stage of learning and intellectual growth, analogous to manhood or the pursuit of knowledge.
The Grip
The Fellow Craft grip involves a distinct pressure, often described as the thumb pressing on the second knuckle joint or between the first and second knuckles of the right hand. It signifies progression beyond the Entered Apprentice level. There is also a "pass-grip" associated with this degree, used transitionally.
The Word (Password)
The primary password for the Fellow Craft degree is "Jachin," the name of the other pillar at Solomon's Temple, symbolizing establishment or to establish. A distinct word, "Shibboleth," is often identified as the "pass-word" for this degree, used to gain passage and referencing a biblical story about differentiating friend from foe by pronunciation.
The Sign
The sign for the Fellow Craft typically involves a different hand placement or motion than the Entered Apprentice, such as placing the left hand on the chest and the right hand in a specific posture, symbolizing the preservation of secrets and the control over one's actions. It may also allude to the symbolic penalty associated with this degree's obligation.
Master Mason (3rd Degree)
This degree symbolizes maturity, wisdom, and the completion of the symbolic journey within the Blue Lodge, dealing with themes of mortality, fidelity, and resurrection.
The Grip
Often referred to as the "Real Grip of a Master Mason" or the "strong grip," this handshake involves distinct thumb placement. It's commonly described as pressing the thumb firmly between the second and third knuckles of the right hand, or applying pressure with the fingertips in a specific manner. This grip is central to the symbolism of the degree.
The Word (Password)
The password for a Master Mason is traditionally "Tubal Cain." This name refers to a biblical figure described in Genesis as the first artificer in brass and iron, symbolizing mastery over the craft.
The Sign
The primary sign of a Master Mason is often called the "penal sign" or "dueguard." It is typically made by drawing the right hand, thumb extended, quickly across the midsection (from left to right hip), and then letting the hand fall to the side. This gesture dramatically alludes to the symbolic penalty mentioned in the Master Mason's obligation, reminding the Mason of the solemnity of his commitments.
Comparative Overview of Recognition Methods
The following table summarizes the commonly described grips, words, and signs for the three Blue Lodge degrees. It's important to remember that slight variations may exist between different Masonic jurisdictions, but this provides a general guide based on widely circulated information.
| Degree | Grip Description | Password / Pass-Word | Sign Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entered Apprentice (1st) | Thumb presses firmly on the first knuckle joint of the right index finger. | Boaz | Hand placed on chest/heart; or gesture across the throat (symbolic penalty). |
| Fellow Craft (2nd) | Thumb presses on the second knuckle joint or between first and second knuckles. Distinct pass-grip also exists. | Jachin (Password), Shibboleth (Pass-Word) | Hand positions symbolizing secrecy/control; or gesture across the chest (symbolic penalty). |
| Master Mason (3rd) | "Strong grip" involving thumb pressure between second and third knuckles, or specific fingertip pressure. | Tubal Cain | Drawing the hand quickly across the midsection (symbolic penalty sign or dueguard). |
Visualizing Masonic Recognition Factors
The various methods of recognition—grips, words, and signs—differ in their characteristics and application within Freemasonry. This chart provides a comparative visualization based on factors like their level of secrecy, importance in rituals, historical connection, complexity across degrees, and depth of symbolism. The scores are interpretive, reflecting general understanding rather than precise data.
As suggested by the chart, all three methods are highly significant in Masonic ritual and symbolism. Grips and words tend to be regarded as more secretive in their precise execution or pronunciation, while signs, though rich in symbolism, are inherently more visual. Each method contributes uniquely to the layered system of Masonic identification and education.
Interconnectedness of Masonic Symbols
The grips, words, and signs are not isolated elements but part of a larger, interconnected system of Masonic ritual and symbolism. They work together, often used in sequence during ceremonies, to reinforce the lessons and identity associated with each degree. This mindmap illustrates the relationship between these core recognition methods, the degree structure they relate to, their underlying purpose, and their historical context.
(Operative)"] id12["Transition to Speculative
Masonry"]
This mindmap highlights how the practical need for identification by medieval stonemasons evolved into a rich symbolic system within speculative Freemasonry. The grips, words, and signs are intrinsically linked to the progressive journey through the three degrees, serving purposes ranging from identification and ritual function to conveying deep symbolic meanings related to morality, brotherhood, and the fraternity's core tenets.
Understanding the Handshake in Context
While descriptions provide insight, understanding the context and meaning behind Masonic practices like the handshake often benefits from further exploration. The video below discusses the significance and symbolism associated with Masonic handshakes, offering perspectives on their role within the fraternity.
This video explores the meaning and context behind Masonic handshakes.
As discussed in the video and throughout this overview, the Masonic handshake is more than just a secret gesture; it's a symbolic act steeped in history and fraternal principles. It serves as a tangible link between members, representing shared values and commitments learned through the degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these grips, words, and signs still truly secret?
While many descriptions of Masonic grips, words, and signs have been published over the centuries (often in exposures intended to reveal Masonic secrets), the exact nuances of their execution and the context in which they are taught and used remain part of the private ritual experience for Freemasons. Their primary purpose today is less about absolute secrecy and more about tradition, ritual integrity, and symbolic recognition within the fraternity.
Do all Freemasons worldwide use the exact same methods?
There is a high degree of consistency in the core grips, words, and signs across mainstream Masonic jurisdictions worldwide, especially for the three Blue Lodge degrees described here. However, minor variations in wording, pronunciation, or the specific execution of a grip or sign can exist between different Grand Lodges or Masonic rites. The fundamental elements and their meanings generally remain consistent.
What is the purpose of these methods beyond just recognition?
Beyond identification, these methods serve important symbolic and educational functions. They act as mnemonic devices, helping members recall the lessons and obligations associated with each degree. They reinforce the themes of fidelity, trust, and brotherhood. Participating in these ritualistic exchanges helps build a shared identity and strengthens the bonds between members.
Are the "penalties" associated with the signs real?
No. The signs that allude to historical penalties (e.g., gestures across the throat or chest) are purely symbolic. They represent the solemnity of the obligations taken by a Mason and the historical severity with which breaches of trust were viewed. They are dramatic allegories emphasizing the importance of fidelity and secrecy within the fraternity's traditions, not literal threats.
What are the "Five Points of Fellowship"?
The Five Points of Fellowship are part of the ritual associated primarily with the Master Mason degree in some jurisdictions. They refer to specific points of physical contact (e.g., foot-to-foot, knee-to-knee, breast-to-breast, hand-to-back, cheek-to-cheek or mouth-to-ear) that occur during a particular part of the ceremony. They symbolize mutual support, fidelity, prayer, trustworthy counsel, and the keeping of secrets. While involving physical contact, they are distinct from the recognition grips used for identification.
References
- Secret Masonic Handshake and Others - Scribd
-
Masonic Signs, Tokens & Passwords (Explained) - MasonicFind
- Secret Masonic Handshakes, Passwords, Signs and Grips - Ephesians5-11
- The Meaning Behind the Masonic Handshake - Scottish Rite NMJ
- Freemasons: Facts, Symbols, Handshake & Meaning - HISTORY
- Masonic Handshakes: All you need to know (photos) - Proto Thema
- What Does a Masonic Handshake Mean? - Esoteric Freemasons
Recommended Reading
cdn.prod.website-files.com
cdn.preterhuman.net
Last updated April 25, 2025