Masonic aprons are an integral part of the dress and regalia worn by members of the Freemasons fraternity. The use of aprons can be traced back centuries to the medieval stonemasons guilds from which Freemasonry emerged in the early 18th century. Aprons hold deep symbolic meaning for Freemasons and serve as an emblem of their beliefs and values. This article will examine the history and symbolism of Masonic aprons and explain why they continue to be worn by members today.
History of Masonic Aprons
The use of aprons by stonemasons dates back to ancient history. Stonemasons wore thick leather aprons to protect their clothes and skin from sharp tools and stone fragments while working. In the Middle Ages, as stonemasons began to organize themselves into guilds, the apron took on greater meaning. The MASTER Masons who oversaw building projects wore more decorative aprons as a badge of their status within the guild. Aprons came to denote the hierarchy, qualifications and achievements of masons.
When Freemasonry emerged in England in the early 1700s, the fraternity adopted many of the symbols and tools of the medieval stonemasons. This included the apron, which became one of the essential elements of Masonic regalia. The symbolic aprons worn by Freemasons today evolved from the functional aprons worn centuries earlier by operative stonemasons.
Types of Masonic Aprons
There are several different types and styles of Masonic aprons, each with different symbolic meanings:
Lambskin Apron
The lambskin apron is the most widely used Masonic apron today. It is typically 14 to 16 inches wide and 12 to 14 inches deep. White lambskin aprons are generally worn by Freemasons who have attained the 3rd or MASTER Mason degree. The lambskin material symbolizes purity and innocence.
Two Tier Apron
In some Masonic jurisdictions, members who have reached higher-level degrees wear a two tier apron. The top tier is sometimes trimmed in the color associated with the member’s rank or position.
Funerary Apron
A plain white cotton or linen apron without any adornments is worn by Freemasons at Masonic funeral services. This symbolizes the equality of all members when they pass onto the next life.
Officer’s Aprons
Aprons with embroidery, trim or symbols corresponding to the officer’s position are worn by Worshipful Masters, Wardens and other leaders within a Masonic lodge.
| Apron Type | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Lambskin | Purity, innocence |
| Two Tier | Higher degree or rank |
| Funerary | Equality in the afterlife |
| Officer’s | Leadership position |
Symbolism of Masonic Aprons
Freemason aprons are densely packed with symbols that carry moral lessons which Freemasons are intended to reflect upon. Some of the key symbolic meanings associated with Masonic aprons include:
White Color
The white lambskin and other light colors typically used for aprons represent purity, innocence and neutrality. White symbolically wipes away the stains of the outside material world.
Badge of Honor
As aprons were worn by MASTER masons historically, the Masonic apron represents the achievements, authority and honor of the wearer. Aprons must be earned through initiation.
Protection
As aprons protected medieval stonemasons from hazards, the Masonic apron symbolizes guarding oneself against immorality, temptation and evil influences.
Secrecy
Folding down the top part of the Masonic apron is said to represent the veil of secrecy and privacy in Masonic rituals and dealings.
Builder’s Tool
The Masonic apron likens the Freemason to a builder who uses moral teachings and brotherly love to build a more righteous world.
Two Pillars
Some aprons feature two pillars which represent the two legendary pillars built by King Solomon’s temple, symbolizing equilibrium and progress.
Why Masons Wear Aprons Today
While aprons may seem odd or archaic to outsiders, they hold deep significance for Freemasons today. Some of the key reasons aprons continue to be worn include:
Tradition
Wearing aprons allows modern Masons to connect to centuries of tradition and history stretching back to medieval stonemasons guilds. Maintaining this unbroken historical line is important to Freemasons.
Shared Identity
The apron helps signify a Mason as part of the Freemasonry brotherhood. Aprons unite Masons as joint caretakers of the fraternity’s philosophical and moral lessons.
Spiritual Reminders
Glancing down at the symbols and imagery on his apron reminds a Freemason of the core teachings and virtues of Masonry meant to guide his conduct outside of formal lodge meetings.
Initiation Rite
Being invested with the apron during Masonic initiation ceremonies imprints the symbolic importance of the apron onto the consciousness of new members.
Signals Achievement
A Mason’s apron displays his degree, achievements and office to other members. More elaborate aprons indicate higher ranks and stature within Freemasonry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Masonic aprons are far more than decorative accessories. They are a historic relic that has been handed down within the fraternity for centuries, connecting today’s Freemasons to their operative stonemason forefathers. But beyond tradition, the apron is one of the most essential symbolic elements of Freemasonry. The imagery and meaning woven into each apron’s fabric continually instructs the Mason who wears it in morality, virtue, and the great teachings of the fraternity. For Freemasons, donning the apron serves as a constant physical reminder of their purpose, values and united identity as part of a brotherhood dedicated to spiritual enlightenment and human progress.