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One of the most talked about topics in masonry today, besides de-recognition and homosexuality is still an issue that dates back to the beginning of the masonic fraternity. It is a constant struggle between senior brethren and newer members, and a point of soreness should be brother be promoted lacking it. It is also quite possibly one of the simplest expectations of a mason. I’m of course talking about knowing your ritual. Ritual is an inherent and integral part of masonry, and although it can be daunting, it is necessary to truly move forward on your masonic journey. There are of course many reasons brethren do not do it, i.e. they do not have time, they do not have the mental capacity, they are simply not interested, etc. But learning your ritual is the crux of your entire masonic journey, from understanding masonry’s symbolism to forming your own moral code. Here are 3 reasons you need to memorize your ritual.

1. IT HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED

Your ritual forms the basic explanation of what it means to be as mason, and how to become a better person. One of the most widely known taglines for masonry is that we “Make good men better,” and is is not for naught. The ritual contains symbols and metaphors for becoming a better person and living life on the square. It sets a standard of measure for you to continually challenge yourself. It explains why are are a fraternity and why that benfits us. The ritual is your one source of answers for being the best mason you can be, and being the best person you can be. All you need to do is to read it.

2. IT GIVES YOU DISCIPLINE AND INTELLIGENCE

The process of memorizing the ritual is in itself a lesson in discipline and by going through your ritual daily, you are also stimulating your mind improving both your cognition and memory. The benefits of memorization are well recorded and quick google search will let you know exactly how beneficial it is for your brain (Let me google that for you).

3. IT’S NOT FOR YOU

At the end of the day though, you are not memorizing the ritual for yourself. You are memorizing it so that you may pass on that knowledge to the next generation of masons. Masonry is as much about the future as it is about the past, and memorizing your ritual is a key step in passing on the light. Whether you are in the master’s chair carrying out the third degree, or being called upon for help by a fellow brother, the ritual is a guide for you to live your life and a guide to impart advice and instruction to those that follow in your footsteps.

Of course there are many more reasons for us to memorize our ritual, but I felt that these are most important reasons that really capture and curate the essence of our order. Do you think its necessary to memorize the ritual? Let me know.

Fraternally yours,

Flynn Francisco

W.M. Swastik Lodge 771 I.C., Mumbai

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