NM Freemason
← The Compasses

Chapter 9 · Study

The Compasses

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Vocabulary · 7

Compasses
A pair of dividers used by the operative builder to describe circles and to lay out the workman's plan. In speculative Masonry, the published symbol of due bounds: the limits within which the Mason's desires and passions are to be kept.
Due bounds
The published phrase from the first-degree lecture: the Mason is to circumscribe his desires and keep his passions within due bounds toward all mankind. The Compasses are the instrument by which this limit is measured.
Point within a circle
A published emblem in which the individual Mason (the point) is bounded by the limits of his duty (the circle). The Compasses are the tool that describes that circle.
Position by degree
The placement of the points of the Compasses on the altar tells the brother which degree the Lodge is working: both points hidden by the Square, one point shown, or both points shown. The published lecture explains each.
Circumscribe
To draw a boundary around; the published verb used in the lecture. The Mason is taught to circumscribe his conduct as the Compasses circumscribe a circle.
Jewel of the Past Master
In Anglo-American practice, the Compasses (often with a quadrant attached, and sometimes the sun) is the published jewel of office for a Past Master. Specifics vary by jurisdiction.
Operative origin
Dividers are among the oldest tools of the stone-mason, used to lay out the workman's plan on the drafting board before a single chisel touches the stone. Speculative Masonry preserves that lineage in its symbolism.

Practice questions · 4

  1. What does the published Masonic lecture say the Compasses teach the Mason?

    • a. To square his actions toward all mankind
    • b. To keep his desires and passions within due bounds ✓
    • c. To honor the brethren on every level
    • d. To labor diligently in his calling

  2. What was the operative use of the Compasses?

    • a. Striking off the rough edges of stone
    • b. Proving a right angle in a joint
    • c. Describing circles and laying out the workman's plan ✓
    • d. Carrying mortar to the course

  3. What does the position of the Compass points on the altar indicate?

    • a. The hour the Lodge was opened
    • b. The degree in which the Lodge is working ✓
    • c. The number of officers present
    • d. The direction of the next station

  4. In the published emblem of the point within a circle, what do the point and the circle represent?

    • a. The Master and the Wardens
    • b. The individual Mason, and the limits of his duty ✓
    • c. The lodge and its members
    • d. The Sun and the Moon