Constitutional & Historical Sources
Primary References
- The Second Schaw Statutes (Edinburgh, 1599) and The Edinburgh Register House MS (1696): earliest written records of the 'Mason Word' and five points of fellowship in Scotland.
- Rev. Dr George Oliver, Signs and Symbols Illustrated and Explained (Grimsby, 1826).
Why Operative Stonemasons Needed Grips and Words in the Middle Ages
In the 14th to 17th centuries, before printed trade certificates, passports, or literacy were widespread, a skilled stonemason travelling from York Minster to Lincoln Cathedral or Kilwinning Abbey needed an unmistakable way to prove to the Master of the Work that he had served a seven-year apprenticeship as an Entered Apprentice or passed to the rank of Fellow of the Craft. A physical grip of the hand and a password tested inside the Mason's Lodge on site prevented unqualified cowans (dry-stone dykers) from claiming a master mason's wages.
How Modern Speculative Freemasons Use Modes of Recognition
Contrary to popular conspiracy fiction, Freemasons do not use secret handshakes in the street, boardroom, or courtroom to exchange favours – doing so would violate their obligation. Today, traditional modes of recognition are used purely inside the tiled Lodge room as part of the historical dramatic ceremony, whilst visiting Brethren prove their membership to the Lodge Secretary by presenting their official Grand Lodge Certificate and current clearance receipt.
Find Your Nearest UK Masonic Hall to Enquire
Ready to arrange an informal visit or tour? Choose a major UK Masonic Hall below or browse all 48 Provincial Grand Lodges:
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the 'Mason Word' in 17th-century Scotland?
Recorded as early as 1638 in Henry Adamson's poem 'The Muses Threnodie' and examined in 1696 manuscripts, the 'Mason Word' was the Scottish operative tradition of communicating trade recognition to apprentices and fellows, which later merged with English symbolic ritual.
How does a visiting Freemason prove he is a member at another UK Masonic Hall?
When visiting a Lodge where he is not personally known, a Brother contacts the Secretary in advance, brings his Grand Lodge Certificate and a letter of good standing from his Lodge, and may be briefly examined by the Tyler before entering the temple.