By Armen Mardirousi, PM
In the sacred halls of our lodge, we gather as brothers united not by blood, but by bonds far stronger—those forged through shared ideals, mutual respect, and the common pursuit of light. The phrase “Brotherhood of Man and the Manhood of the Brother” encapsulates two fundamental truths that lie at the heart of our Masonic journey: our universal connection to all humanity and our individual responsibility to embody the highest virtues of character.
The Universal Brotherhood
The Brotherhood of Man speaks to Freemasonry’s most expansive vision. When we recognize the divine spark within every human being, we acknowledge that the principles we hold dear—Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth—extend far beyond the walls of our lodge room. This brotherhood transcends the artificial divisions that too often separate people: race, religion, nationality, or social station.
Our ancient landmarks remind us that Masonry is universal in its scope. From the stonemasons who built the great cathedrals of Europe to the lodge meetings held in frontier towns of the American West, from the lodges that met in secret during times of oppression to those that flourish in freedom today, we are part of an unbroken chain of men seeking to perfect themselves and improve the world around them.
This universal brotherhood does not diminish our particular loyalties—to family, community, or country—but rather enriches them by placing them within a larger context of human solidarity. When we see the divine architect’s handiwork in every person we meet, we naturally extend the hand of friendship, offer aid to those in distress, and work toward justice and harmony in our communities.
The Development of True Manhood
Yet the Brotherhood of Man can only be as strong as the character of the individual brothers who comprise it. This brings us to the second half of our reflection: the Manhood of the Brother. True manhood, as Masonry teaches, is not defined by physical strength or worldly achievement, but by moral courage, integrity, and the continuous effort to subdue our passions and improve ourselves in Masonry.
The journey from Entered Apprentice to Fellow Craft to Master Mason is fundamentally about the development of character. Each degree presents us with new challenges, deeper symbolism, and greater responsibilities. We learn to govern our tongues, to act with prudence and discretion, to practice temperance in all things, and to meet adversity with fortitude.
The working tools of each degree serve as daily reminders of this ongoing work of self-improvement. The Twenty-Four Inch Gauge teaches us to divide our time wisely between service to God, our fellow man, and necessary refreshment. The Common Gavel helps us chip away the rough edges of our character. The Trowel spreads the cement of brotherly love and affection, binding us together in one sacred band.
The Reciprocal Relationship
These two concepts—the Brotherhood of Man and the Manhood of the Brother—exist in dynamic relationship with each other. As individual Masons grow in wisdom, strength, and beauty, they contribute more meaningfully to the universal brotherhood. Conversely, active participation in the brotherhood provides the context and motivation for continued personal growth.
Consider how our lodge meetings exemplify this relationship. When we open lodge, we create a sacred space where men of different backgrounds and experiences come together as equals, each bringing his unique gifts while sharing common obligations. The ritual work we perform together deepens our individual understanding while strengthening our collective bonds. The business we conduct serves both the lodge’s particular needs and Masonry’s broader mission.
Living the Lesson
The true test of our understanding comes not in the lodge room, but in how we carry these principles into our daily lives. Do we see the potential for brotherhood in every person we encounter? Do we conduct ourselves with the dignity befitting a Mason in all our dealings? Do we use our influence and resources to promote the welfare of mankind?
The Brotherhood of Man calls us to be bridge-builders in a divided world, to seek common ground rather than emphasize differences, to practice tolerance and understanding even when others do not. The Manhood of the Brother demands that we hold ourselves to the highest standards of conduct, that we keep our word, that we deal fairly with all people, and that we never bring dishonor upon the fraternity we represent.
A Continuing Journey
As we reflect on these timeless principles, let us remember that neither the brotherhood nor the development of character is ever complete. Each lodge meeting, each interaction with a brother, each opportunity to serve our community presents new chances to deepen our understanding and strengthen our commitment.
The ancient charges remind us that we are “cheerfully to conform to every laudable custom” of the countries where we reside, while also remembering that our highest allegiance is to the moral law written in every human heart. In this balance between particular duties and universal principles, we find both the challenge and the glory of the Masonic way.
May we continue to build that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, as we perfect ourselves in the craft and extend the blessings of brotherhood to all mankind. In doing so, we honor both the Brotherhood of Man and the Manhood of the Brother, living testimonies to the transformative power of Freemasonry in every age.
So mote it be.