Why Are They Called Blue Lodges in Freemasonry?
In the world of Craft Masonry, a blue lodge refers to the core degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. This term is used to describe the Masonic ritual and organizational structure where the first three degrees of Freemasonry are conferred. Itrsquo;s important to note that no Masonic degree is considered higher than the Master Mason degree within the Craft Masonry framework. Other orders or chapters may exist, which provide supplementary degrees, but the commonality in a blue lodge revolves around the first three degrees.
The Origin of the Term “Blue Lodge”
The term “blue lodge” is derived from the color of the regalia and aprons worn by members, as well as the color of the lodge room itself. This historical association with the color blue has significant symbolic meaning in the context of Freemasonry.
Symbology of Blue in Freemasonry
According to the Masonic Encyclopedia by Coil, the color blue has deep historical and symbolic significance. Blue has been associated with immortality, eternity, and fidelity since ancient times. The ancient Babylonians, for example, linked the color blue to the gods, reinforcing its profound spiritual and divine connotations in Masonic rituals.
Historical Significance
In both the UK and Canada, blue lodge refers to a Masonic lodge where the three degrees of Freemasonry are conferred. The aprons worn by members often have blue facings, which can be traced back to these historical associations. Other Masonic bodies, such as the Holy Royal Arch, which is an advanced order, may have aprons of a different color, often red, and are referred to as red lodges.
Modern Usage and Interpretation
While the blue lodge retains its traditional symbolism, its modern usage must also be understood in the context of contemporary Freemasonry practices. The blue lodgersquo;s name reflects the historical and symbolic significance of the color blue, serving as a reminder of the ancient traditions and values upheld in this form of Freemasonry.
Key Terms and Definitions
Blue Lodge: A Masonic lodge where the first three degrees of Freemasonry, namely, Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, are conferred.
Entered Apprentice: The first degree of Masonry, signifying the individualrsquo;s initiation into Freemasonry.
Fellow Craft: The second degree of Masonry, denoting the completion of the first degree and the initiation into the teachings and responsibilities of a Fellow Craft.
Master Mason: The third and final degree of Masonry, representing the highest level of attainment in this foundational structure of Freemasonry.
Grand Lodge: The highest governing body of Freemasonry within a given jurisdiction. It oversees the administration and regulation of all Masonic lodges within that area.
Prince Hall Freemasonry: A separate and distinct form of Freemasonry that originated from the enslavement and discrimination faced by African American men in colonial North America, who were initially not allowed to join the exclusive British Freemasonry.
Regular Masonic Jurisdiction: A Masonic organization that adheres to the Landmarks of Freemasonry, which are the fundamental principles and tenets that define the practice and philosophies of Freemasonry.
Anglo-American Freemasonry: Refers to the Masonic tradition practiced in the United States and the United Kingdom, characterized by the focus on the three principal degrees of Freemasonry.
Continental Freemasonry: This refers to the Masonic tradition that emerged in Europe, particularly in France and other continental European countries, and may vary in its degree structure and practices.