By W.: John Barling, Secretary of Hyde Park Lodge 370
In Freemasonry, some things can evolve over time, rituals may vary slightly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and local customs can shape how Lodges operate. But then there are the Landmarks which are the essential, unchanging elements of the Craft. These Landmarks are like bedrock. Without them, Freemasonry would lose its identity.
Yet there are also principles and practices that, while not quite Landmarks, still carry deep historical weight. These time-tested ideas help Freemasonry function day to day, even though they don’t meet the strict definition of a Landmark. In Florida, these are defined in Article XIII and Article XIV, Section 3 of the Digest of Masonic Law.
Before we can appreciate what a Landmark is, we must first understand what makes something a true Landmark. For a principle or practice to be considered a Landmark of Freemasonry, it must have two key qualities:
1. Antiquity
It must go back to the very beginnings of the Craft, as far back as we can trace Freemasonry in recorded history. It’s not something added later on or adapted to modern needs.
2. Universality
It must be accepted and practiced by Masons everywhere, across time and geography. Without it, Masonry would not be the same, no matter where you go.
These two qualities, ancient origin and universal acceptance, are what give Landmarks their authority and permanence. In Florida, the Grand Lodge has officially recognized several Landmarks that meet these criteria.
The Recognized Landmarks in Florida
Here are the Landmarks that the Grand Lodge of Florida has officially adopted, along with a simple explanation of what each one means as referenced in Art., XIII Section 2 of the Digest.
(a) Belief in One True God
Masonry is not a religion, but it is spiritual in nature. Every Mason must believe in a Supreme Being; however he understands that Being. This foundational belief gives moral and ethical grounding to our work.
(b) Belief in the Immortality of the Soul
Masons believe that life doesn’t end with death. This principle gives deeper meaning to our symbolism and rituals, especially the teachings of the Third Degree.
(c) The Volume of Sacred Law Must Be on the Altar
No Lodge meeting can open without a sacred book. In Florida, this is the Holy Bible. It reminds us that all our obligations are made before a higher power.
(d) The Legend of the Third Degree
This ritual story lies at the heart of the Master Mason degree. It’s more than theater; it teaches moral truths through symbolism and allegory.
(e) Secrecy and Recognition
Certain words, signs, and tokens help Masons recognize each other and protect the integrity of the Craft. Every Lodge must be properly tyled while at labor and visitors must prove they are true Masons (unless they are duly and properly avouched for). Some aspects of Masonry can’t even be written down, they’re preserved only through tradition.
(f) The Symbolism of the Operative Art
Freemasonry uses the tools and language of stonemasons to teach moral lessons. These symbols (the square and compasses, rough ashlar, etc) connect us to our operative roots.
(g) Qualifications for Membership
To join, a man must be freeborn, of lawful age, well-recommended, and physically capable of understanding and participating in Lodge work (unless a special exception is granted). These requirements ensure that candidates can fully engage in the experience.
(h) The Three Degrees of Craft Masonry
Freemasonry is built around three degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. This structure has been around for centuries and forms the core of Masonic learning and progression.
(i) Grand Master and His Authority
Since Speculative Masonry began, the Craft has been governed by a Grand Master, elected from among the Brethren. He holds unique powers, including the authority to enter any Lodge, issue dispensations, and, on rare occasions, make a Mason “at sight.”
(j) The Lodge as the Basic Unit
Freemasons gather in Lodges. This is where ritual is performed, fellowship is built, and Masonic work is carried out. The Lodge is the heartbeat of the Craft.
The Principles and Practices of Florida Masonry
In Article XIV, Section 3, the Grand Lodge of Florida lists seven principles that are treated as deeply important, but not quite immutable. These ideas are fundamental to how Freemasonry works and reflect ancient precedents. But they don’t meet the strict test of Antiquity and Universality, so they aren’t classified as Landmarks.
(a) Lodge Leadership
Every Lodge is governed by a Master and two Wardens. This structure helps keep order and reflects centuries of tradition.
(b) Representation and Voice
Every Mason has the right to be represented in Grand Lodge decisions and to instruct his representatives. This ensures that the Craft remains governed by the Brethren, not imposed from the top down.
(c) Right of Appeal
If a Mason feels he’s been treated unfairly, he has the right to appeal to the Grand Lodge. This protects the dignity and rights of every Brother.
(d) Right to Visit
All Masons in good standing have the right to visit other regular Lodges, unless there’s a good reason not to. This reinforces our global Brotherhood.
(e) No Interference Between Lodges
Each Lodge is sovereign within its jurisdiction. One Lodge can’t interfere in the business of another—this maintains order and respect.
(f) Jurisdictional Authority
Every Mason is subject to the laws of the Grand Lodge where he lives, regardless of where he was raised. This helps maintain discipline and clarity.
(g) Equality of All Masons
Masonry teaches that all men are equal in Lodge. Titles and honors don’t change that, we meet on the level.
Landmarks vs. Principles
| Feature | Landmarks | Principles |
| Can they be changed? | No—considered unchangeable | Yes—can be modified if needed |
| Origin | Ancient and universal | Based on longstanding tradition |
| Purpose | Define what Masonry is | Guide how Masonry functions |
| Spiritual/Moral? | Mostly symbolic and philosophical | Mostly procedural and organizational |
| Examples | Belief in God, Third Degree, secrecy | Lodge governance, appeal rights, jurisdiction |
I think of Landmarks as the spiritual core, the soul if you will, of Freemasonry. It tells us what our Fraternity is at its essence. The Principles on the other hand, I think of them as well-worn tools passed down from the generations. They help shape how we work, communicate, and live together in Brotherhood.
While both are valuable and essential, only one is permanent and unchangeable.
Understanding the difference helps every Mason appreciate not only where we came from, but why we do things the way we do.
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