Hiding Secrets
Feb 16, 2013 23:26:19 GMT 9.5
Post by stepnwolf on Feb 16, 2013 23:26:19 GMT 9.5
In some parts of the States you may see a ring or label pin with this symbol, which indicates that the wearer is a MM. It is a little less obvious than the S&C and refers to one of the secrets of Blue Lodge.
Since the appearance of published exposés that purport to reveal all of the Masonic secrets, LL and jurisdictions have taken steps to prevent cowans from using these books to gain entrance into a L.
One way is to reverse the words of the first two degrees, so that B.. of one degree is now the word of the other and vice versa. When lettering the words a neutral letter can be inserted into the middle of the word, which may trip up the would-be intruder.
In interviewing the prospective visitor, the interrogator may drop an innocent-appearing question about traveling, the answer to which is not that obvious in written rituals. Care has to be taken to observe the customs of the L. (I was taught that in addressing the chair, the WM is saluted with the sign of the degree. This was not expected in a L. I was visiting and there was an awkward silence while the WM digested the novelty.)
A cursory use of Google will expose all of the secrets used in Blue L. There is one caveat to be remembered in using these sources, however: every site is a snapshot of usage in one L. or jurisdiction at a certain period of time. Contrary to the impression that Freemasonry is timeless, innovations creep in, LL attempt to preserve their uniqueness and safeguard their secrets. The safest way to learn them is in a L. just, perfect and regular.