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Preston's Charge at initiation into the first degree

The following text is the Charge at initiation into the first degree, as written by William Preston in his treatise "Illustrations of Masonry", first published in 1772. Many subsequent editions were published and expanded. The following text is the exact replica of the original english text of 1792, including spelling and punctuation.

William Preston has had a tremendous influence on the spreading of masonic rituals of his time, and has influenced many of the masonic scholars who followed him, like Thomas S. Webb. Thus, the following text has a definite historic meaning for those who study free-masonry. Obviously, it is a fragment of a ritual as practiced in 1792, and the wise reader will avoid drawing any undue conclusions concerning the rituals as practiced nowadays. The masonic brother, on the other hand, will realize the evolution that the masonic ritual has undergone since the end of the XVIIIth century. It would be convenient to quote Preston himself, in his introduction dated January 1st, 1788:

"To conclude. Having thus ventured to appear in vindication of the ceremonies, and in support of the privileges, of Masonry, I shall be happy to be considered a feeble instrument in promoting its prosperity. If I continue to meet with the approbation of my brethren, and succeed in my expectation of giving the world a favourable idea of the institution, I shall attain the full completion of my wishes; and if my hopes are frustrated, I shall still indulge the not unpleasant reflection, of having exerted my best endeavours in a good cause."

This charge was given after the initiation of a candidate, and constitues a true apology of the moral virtues of a freemason. According to Preston, "the paragraphs enclosed in brackets [ ] may be occasionally omitted, if time will not admit of delivering the whole Charge."

[Charge at initiation into the second degree]
[Charge at initiation into the third degree]

BROTHER,

[As you are now introduced into the first principles of Masonry, I congratulate you on being accepted into this ancient and honourable Order: ancient, as having subsisted from time immemorial; and honourable, as tending, in every particular, so to render all men, who will be conformable to its precepts. No institution was ever raised on a better principle, or more solid foundation; nor were ever more excellent rules and useful maxims laid down, that are inculcated on all persons at their initiation into the mysteries of Masonry. Monarchs, in all ages, have been encouragers and promoters of the Art, and have never deemed it derogatory from their dignity, to level themselves with the fraternity, extend their privileges, and patronise their assemblies.]

As a mason you are bound to be a strict observer of the moral law, as contained in the holy writings*; to consider these as the unerring standard of truth and justice, and regulate your life and actions by their divine precepts. Herein is inculcated your duty to God; In never mentioning his name, but with that awe and reverence which is due from a creature to his creator; to implore his aid in all your laudable undertakings; and to esteem him as the chief good: — to your neighbour; in acting upon the square, and doing unto him as you wish he should do unto you: — and to yourself; in avoiding all irregularity and intemperance, which may impair your faculties, or debase the dignity of your profession. A zealous attachment to these duties will ensure public and private esteem.

In the state, you are to be a quiet and peaceable subject, true to your sovereign, and just to your country; you are not to countenance disloyalty or rebellion, but patiently submit to legal authority, and conform with cheerfulness to the government of the kingdom in which you live.

[In your outward demeanour be particularly careful to avoid censure or reproach; and beware of those who may artfully endeavour to insinuate themselves into your esteem, with a view to betray your virtuous resolutions, or make you swerve from the principles of this institution. Let not interest, favour, or prejudice, bias your integrity, or influence you to be guilty of a dishonourable action; but let your conduct and behaviour be regular and uniform, and your deportment suitable to the dignity of your profession.]

Above all, practise benevolence and charity; for by these virtues, masons have been distinguished in every age and country. [The inconceivable pleasure of contributing toward the relief of our fellow-creatures, is truly experienced by persons of a humane disposition; who are naturally excited, by sympathy, to extend their aid in alleviation of the miseries of others. This encourages the generous mason to distribute his bounty with cheerfulness. Supposing himself in the situation of an unhappy sufferer, he listens to his complaints with attention, bewails his misfortunes, and speedily relieves his distress.]

The next object of your attention is our excellent Constitutions. These contain the history of masonry from the earliest periods, with an account of illustrious persons who have enriched the Art in different countries; and the laws and charges, by which the brethren have been long governed.

A punctual attendance on our assemblies we next enjoin, especially on the duties of the lodge to which you may belong. There, as in all other regular meetings of the fraternity, you are to behave with order and decorum, that harmony may be preserved, and the business of masonry be properly conducted. [The rules of good manners you are not to violate; neither are you to use any unbecoming language, in derogation of the name of God, or toward the corruption of good manners: you are not to introduce or maintain any dispute about religion or politics; or behave irreverently while the lodge is engaged in what is serious and important: but you are to pay a proper deference and respect to the Master and presiding officers, and diligently apply to your work in the Art, that you may sooner become a proficient therein, as well for your own credit, as the honour of the brethren by who you have been received.]

Although your frequent appearance at our regular meetings is earnestly solicited, yet it is not meant that masonry should interfere with your necessary vocations; for these are on no account to be neglected: neither are you to suffer your zeal for the institution, to lead you into argument with those you, through ignorance, may ridicule it. At your leisure hours, you are to study the liberal arts and sciences; and that you may improve in masonic disquisitions, converse with well-informed brethren, who will be always as ready to give, as you will be to receive, instruction.

Finally; keep sacred and inviolable the mysteries of the Order, as these are to distinguish you from the rest of the community, and mark your consequence among masons. If, in the circle of your acquaintance, you find a person desirous of being initiated into masonry, be particularly attentive not to recommend him, unless you are convinced he will conform to our rules; that the honour, glory, and reputation of the institution may be firmly established, and the world at large convinced of its good effects.

[From the attention you have paid to the recital of the charge, we are led to hope that you will estimate the real value of free-masonry; and always imprint on your mind the dictates of truth, honour, and justice.]

* The Bible; but in countries where it is not known, any other book, or emblem, which is understood to contain the will of God.