THE

CONSTITUTIONS AND GENERAL STATUTES

FOR THE
GOVERNMENT
OF THE ANCIENT & PRIMITIVE RITE OF FREEMASONRY IN AND
FOR
AL MOROCCAN GRAND LODGE
Issued under the auspices of the
Grand Sanctuary
As compiled and amended February 2006 and
Rectified on April 2011by the
Ill:.Rt:.Revd:.Tau:.Khalid El Bey
Sage Theosopher of the Rite
77th Degree

The Charges of all Members of the Order

To be read at the making of new Brethren and Sisters, or when the Master or Mistress shall order it.
I. KNOW THYSELF
A Member of this Order is obliged by his/her tenure to make a sincere effort to improve him/herself.
Being in possession of the knowledge that to know Self is to know all things, Members of this Order
pledge their lives to do just that. When ask is this an act of your own free will and accord and in
conjunction with this, the reason for which solicitation into the Order is not allowed, it is the intent of
the investigator to determine whether the Candidate has as a personal goal the improvement of
him/herself; for absent such a goal we cast pearls to swine.

II. OF LODGES / TEMPLES

A Lodge, Temple (from here on, Sanctuary) is a place where Members of the Order assemble to work
and to instruct and to improve themselves in the mysteries of their ancient science. In an extended
sense, it applies to persons as well as to place; hence every regular assembly or duly organized meeting
of Masons is called a lodge; or of Thebans is called a Temple. Every Member ought to belong to some
Sanctuary, and be subject to its by-laws and the general regulations of the Craft. A Sanctuary may be
either general or particular, as will be best understood by attending it, and there a knowledge of the
established usages and customs of the Craft may be acquired. From ancient times no Member, except
Neophytes could be absent from the Sanctuary, especially when warned or Summoned to appear at it,
without incurring a severe censure; unless it appeared to the Master or Mistress that pure necessity
hindered him/her.
The persons made Masons/Thebans and admitted members of a lodge/temple must be good and true
men/woman, free born, and of a mature and discreet age and sound judgment, no immoral or
scandalous men/women, but of good report.

III. OF ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORDER

All preferment among members is grounded upon real worth and personal merit only, that so the lords
may be well served, the Membership not put to shame, nor the royal Craft despised; therefore no
Member is EVER chosen by seniority, but instead for said Members merit. It is impossible to describe
these things in writing, and therefore every Member must attend in his/her place and learn them in a
way peculiar to this Fraternity. Candidates may, nevertheless, know that no Master or Theban should
take an apprentice unless he/she is a perfect youth having no maim or defect in his/her body, that may
render him/her incapable of learning the art, or serving his/her Master and of being made a Candidate
and then an Initiate in due time, after he/she has served such a term of weeks, months or years as the
custom of the country directs; and that he/she should be descended of honest parents, that so when
otherwise qualified, he/she may arrive to the honor of being a qualified Member of the Order,
according to his/her merit.
No Member of the OTM can be secured as Mistress of a Temple until she has reached the part of
fourth degree in the OTM; nor a Master until he has raised to the third degree, who is also to be nobly
born, or a gentleman/woman of the best fashion, or some eminent scholar, or some curious architect
or other artist descended of honest parents, and who is of singularly great merit in the opinion of the
Order.
These rulers and governors, supreme and subordinate, of the ancient Order, are to be obeyed in their
respective stations by all of their respective Members, according to the old charges and regulations,
with all humility, reverence, love and alacrity.

IV. OF THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CRAFT IN WORKING

All Members should work honestly on working days that they may live creditably on holy days; and
the time appointed by the law of the land or confirmed by custom, shall be observed. The most expert
of the Members shall be chosen or appointed the Master/Mistress, or overseer, of the Orders work,
who is to be seen as a Master/Mistress by those that work under him/her. The Members are to avoid

all ill language, and call each other by no disobliging name, but brother or Sister; and to behave
themselves courteously within and without the Sanctuary.
The Master or Theban, knowing themselves to be able of cunning, shall undertake the Order's work as
reasonably as possible, and truly dispend their goods as if they were their own; nor give more wages to
any brother or sister than he/she really may deserves.
All Members receiving their wages justly shall be faithful to the Order and honestly finish their work,
whether task or journey; nor put the work to task that hath been accustomed to journey. None shall
discover envy at the prosperity of a brother or sister, nor supplant them nor put them out of their work
if they capable to finish the same; for no man can finish another's work so much to the Order's profit,
unless he be thoroughly acquainted with the designs and draughts of him that began it.
When a Member is chosen to work under the Master/Mistress, he/she shall be true both to
Master/Mistress and Fellows, shall carefully oversee the work in the Master's/Mistress absence, to the
Order's profit; and his/her brethren/sisters shall be attentive to them.
All Members employed shall meekly receive their wages without murmuring or mutiny, and not desert
the Master/Mistress till the work is finished. A younger Member shall be instructed in working to
prevent spoiling the materials for want of judgment, and for increasing and continuing
brotherly/sisterly love.
All tools used in working shall be approved by the Grand Lodge.
No laborer shall be employed in the proper work of in the Order; nor shall Members work with those
who are not free, without an urgent necessity; nor shall they teach laborers or unaccepted
Masons/Thebans as they should teach a brother or a sister.

V. OF BEHAVLOUR, VIZ.:
IN THE LODGE WHILE CONSTITUTED
You are not to hold private committees or separate conversations without leave from the
Master/Mistress, nor to talk of anything impertinently, or unseemly, nor interrupt the Master or
Mistress or any Member speaking to the Master or Mistress; nor behave yourself ludicrously or
jestingly while the Sanctuary is engaged in what is serious and solemn; nor use any unbecoming
language upon any presence whatsoever; but to pay due reverence to your Master, Mistress and
Fellows and put them to worship.
If any complaint be brought, the Member found guilty shall stand to the award and determination of
the dignitaries who are the proper and competent judges of all such controversies (unless you carry
them by appeal to the Grand Lodge), and to whom they ought to be referred, unless a Order's work be
hindered the meanwhile, in which case a particular reference may be made, but you must never go to
outside-law about what concerns the Order, for no reason whatsoever.
BEHAVIOUR AFTER THE LODGE IS OVER AND THE MEMBERS NOT GONE
You may enjoy yourself with innocent mirth, treating one another according to ability, but avoid
excess, or forcing any Member to eat or drink beyond his/her inclination, or hinder him/her from
going when his/her occasions call him/her, or doing or saying anything offensive, that would forbid an
easy and free conversation, for that would blast our harmony and defeat our laudable purposes.
Therefore, no private piques or quarrels must be brought within the door of the Sanctuary, far less any
quarrels about religion, or nations, or state policy, we being only as Masons/Thebans of the universal
purpose before mentioned; we are also of all nations, tongues, kindred and languages, and resolved
against all politics, as what never yet conduced to the welfare of the Sanctuary, nor ever will.
BEHAVIOUR WHEN MEMBERS MEET WITHOUT STRANGERS, BUT NOT IN A SANCTUARY
FORMED
You are to salute one another in a courteous manner as you will be instructed, calling each other
brother/sister, freely giving mutual instructions as shall be thought expedient, without being overseen
or overheard, and without encroaching on each other or derogating from that respect which is due to

any brother/sister, were he not a Member; for though all Members are as brethren/sisters on the same
level, yet Masonry takes no honor from a man/women that he/she had before, nay, rather it adds to
his/her honor, especially if he/she has deserved well of the Order, who must give honor to whom it is
due and avoid ill manners.
BEHAVIOUR IN PRESENCE OF STRANGERS NOT MASONS
You should be cautious in your words and carriage, that the most penetrating stranger should not be
able to discover or find out what is not proper to be intimated; and sometimes you may divert a
discourse and manage it prudently for the honor of the worshipful Order.
BEHAVIOUR AT HOME AND IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
You are to act as becomes a moral and wise person particularly not to let your family and friends and
neighbors know the concerns of the Order, etc.; but wisely to consult your own honor, and that of
your ancient Order, for reasons not to be mentioned here. You must also consult your health by not
continuing together too late or too long after Sanctuary hours are passed; and by avoiding of gluttony
or drunkenness, that your family be not neglected or injured, nor you disabled from working.
BEHAVIOUR TOWARD A STRANGE OR UNAFFILIATED BROTHER/SISTER
You are cautioned to examine him/her in such a manner as prudence shall direct you, that you may
not be imposed upon by an ignorant false pretender, whom you are to reject with contempt and
derision and beware of giving him/her any hints of knowledge.
But if you discover him/her to be a true and genuine brother/sister you are to respect him/her
accordingly, but never go further in discussion then the knowledge he/she possesses; and if he/she is in
want you must relieve him/her if you can, or direct him/her how he/she may be relieved. You must
employ him/her some days or else recommend him/her to be employed. But you are not charged to do
beyond your ability; only to prefer a poor brother/sister and a good man/woman and true before all
other people in the same circumstances.
Finally--All these charges you are to observe, and also those that shall be communicated unto you in
another way; cultivating universal love, the foundation and capstone, the cement and glory of this

ancient Order; avoiding all wrangling and quarreling, all slander and backbiting, nor permitting others
to slander any honest brother/sister, but defending his/her character and doing him/her all good
offices, so far as is consistent with your honor and safety and no further. And if any of them do you
injury, you must apply to your own or his/her Sanctuary, and from thence you may appeal to the
Grand Lodge, at a semi-annual communication, as has been the ancient laudable conduct of our
forefathers/mothers in every nation; never taking a legal course but when the case cannot be otherwise
decided; and patiently listening to the honest and friendly advice of Masters and Mistresses, when they
would prevent you going to law with strangers, or would excite you to put a speedy period to all
lawsuits that so you may find the affair of Masonry with more alacrity and success; but with respect to
the brothers or sisters at law, the Masters and Members should kindly offer their mediation which
ought to be thankfully submitted to by the contending Members; and if that submission is
impracticable, they must, however, carry on their process of complaint to the Grand Lodge without
wrath and rancor (not in the common way) saying or doing nothing which may hinder brotherly love
and good offices to be renewed and continued, that all may see the benign influence of Masonry, as all
true Masons have done from the beginning of the world, and will do to the end of time.
Amen, so mote it be.

CONSTITUTION
OF
AL MOROCCAN GRAND LODGE
OF THE
ANCIENT AND PRIMITIVE RITE OF FREEMASONRY
Article I
SEC. 1 - The Illustrious Patriarchs, Sovereign Grand Master of the Rite, constituting the Grand Sanctuary of Ancient
and Primitive Freemasonry, in and for Al Moroccan Grand Lodge (O:.O:.O:.), being appointed and duly convoked by
the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Conservator General, in accordance with the authority vested in him by Letters Patent
granted him by the Illustrious Sovereign Grand Hierophant of the Rite.
The Grand Sanctuary, after careful and deliberate discussion, have ordained and decreed, and by these presents do
ordain and decree in the manner following:
GENERAL ORDINANCES AND STATUTES FOR THE BETTER DISCIPLINE AND GOVERNMENT OF ALL
DULY CONSTITUTED BODIES PRACTICING ANCIENT AND PRIMITIVE FREEMASONRY, ACCORDING
TO THE VENERATED TRADITIONS OF THE ANCIENT AND PRIMITIVE RITE, ON February 2006.
The Grand Sanctuary in and for Al Moroccan Grand Lodge (O:.O:.O:.), has absolute control over all subordinate
bodies of the Rite as guaranteed by this Constitution.
OF WHOM COMPOSED
The Grand Lodge is composed of the following Grand Officers General:
1. The Most Illustrious Sovereign Grand Master,
2. The Illustrious Deputy Grand Master,
3. The Illustrious Grand Senior Warden,
4. The Illustrious Grand Junior Warden,
5. The Illustrious Grand Secretary,
6. The Illustrious Grand Treasurer,

7. The Illustrious Grand Senior Deacon,

8. The Illustrious Grand Junior Deacon,
9. The Illustrious Grand Expert
10. The Illustrious Grand Inspector General
11. The Illustrious Grand master of Ceremonies
12. The Illustrious Grand Keeper of the Sanctuary
The twelve Grand Officers, and all Grand Representatives, also the two first officers of all Mystic Temples, and all
Ill:.Brothers in possession of at least the 3rd Degree, and duly registered as such.
DUTIES OF GRAND OFFICERS
SEC. 2 - THE MOST Ill. SOVEREIGN GRAND MASTER
Must be regarded as the fountain of authority governing Al Moroccan Grand Lodge (O:.O:.O:.) of the Ancient and
Primitive Rite, and by virtue of his sanction are bodies empowered to practice and observe the Ritual of the Ancient
and Primitive Rite in a proper and legitimate manner. He will preside at all convocations of the Grand Lodge, and
shall be entitled, in recognition of his dignity, to the seat of honor, when present, at every Orient beneath his
jurisdiction.
It is his prerogative to grant dispensations for the formation of Symbolic Lodges, Mystic Temples, Sublime Councils,
Senates and Chapters of Rose Croix, in any State or Territory where no Mystic Temple exists, which he will establish,
or cause to be established, after receipt of a petition couched in appropriate language, and emanating from an
adequate number of Masons/Thebans, to insure a correct formation of the body petitioned for.
He shall, moreover, possess authority for conferring the various Degrees of the Rite, from the 4th to the 90th Degree,
or in the OTM from the 5th to the 88th degree inclusive. Nevertheless, he is privileged to delegate the authority
organically vested in him, for the conferring of those degrees, to any Patriarch or Matriarch of the Rite, which shall
only be done by Letters Patent, issued under his hand and the Seal of the Grand Lodge. He will, moreover, appoint
Deputies of each of the Subordinate Grand Lodge Officers, his Grand Representatives, and the first officers of such
Mystic Temples as may at any time be organized. He is also empowered to fill all vacancies among the Grand
Officers, by appointment, for the unexpired term of office.
SEC. 3 - THE DEPUTY GRAND MASTER is the second dignitary of the Grand Lodge. He shall assume, in the
event of the absence or illness of the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master, his duties and prerogatives. At other times he
shall perform such duties as may be assigned to him by the Ritual, tending to the propagation and correct
advancement and welfare of the Rite.

SEC. 4 - THE GRAND SECRETARY, shall have charge of the correspondence of Al Moroccan Grand Lodge
(O:.O:.O:.) of the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis, official and particular; a correct copy of which he shall
cause to be registered upon the Archives of the Sovereign Sanctuary, whose record it shall be his province to guard
and preserve. All official documents must be attested by the signature of the Grand Secretary, otherwise they are to be
deemed void and of no effect; and to him officially must be addressed all communications and documents touching
the Grand Lodge or the general welfare of the Rite; he shall, furthermore, act as the cashier of the Sanctuary receiving
all monies, which he shall pay over to the Grand Treasurer.
SEC. 5 - THE GRAND TREASURER shall render to the Grand Lodge, at its regular convocation, a full and complete
report of its financial condition, exhibiting receipts and expenditures, with vouchers, as to disbursements, and
statements as to the revenue; and no monies shall be paid out except on the written order of the Most Ill. Sovereign
Grand Master, countersigned by the Grand Secretary and the Grand Chancellor.
SEC. 6 - THE GRAND EXPERT It shall be his duty to preserve a constant scrutiny over the workings of the bodies
owing allegiance to the Grand Lodge, so that its primitive harmony be preserved, its venerable traditions respected,
and its distinctive landmarks conserved against inroads and encroachments. It shall, moreover, be the duty of this
dignitary to present the claims, petitions and congratulations of such Masonic Bodies as may desire to establish
fraternal intercourse with the Grand Lodge or of such subordinate bodies as may seek official intercourse with the
Patriarchs of the Rite.
SEC. 7 - THE GRAND INSPECTOR GENERAL is charged with the supervision of the Rituals, emanating from the
Sovereign Sanctuary, that they may contain true and faithful reproductions of our Ancient and Primitive Ceremonial,
Charges and Lectures, uncorrupted by errors, misrepresentations, or interpolations. He is the expounder of the Ritual
of the Rite, and shall confer the several degrees and lectures when requested so to do by subordinate bodies.
SEC. 8 - THE GRAND MASTER OF CEREMONIES shall assist the Grand Inspector General in the performance of
degrees and to conduct candidates in the rituals.
SEC. 9 - THE GRAND KEEPER OF THE SANCTUARY shall have charge of the Peristyle of the Sanctuary, which
he shall see guarded against the curious and profane. He shall, moreover, have custody of the insignia and
paraphernalia of the Grand Lodge, which he shall see preserved in constant readiness and repair, so that they may be
used as required by the ordinary or extraordinary convocation of the Grand Lodge. He shall furthermore be charged
with the direction and marshalling of all processions of the A. and P. Rite of Memphis, at which the Grand Lodge
officiates.
SEC. 10 - No Grand Officer can supersede any appointed Grand Officer of a higher station.
SEC. 11 - No member of the Grand Lodge in his capacity as a Grand Lodge Officer (except the Grand Master), is
entitled to a vote, on Election, or any question brought before the Subordinate lodges, except he be a contributing

member of some subordinate body of the Rite; Exceptions being made to those who reside where no subordinate
body exists.
SEC. 12 - Any Officer of the Grand Lodge may be deposed by the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master for a continued
neglect of his duties.
CONVOCATIONS
SEC. 13 - There shall be two regular convocations of the Grand Lodge on a dates that will be chosen around the
equinoxes and solstices (March and September), for the appointment of officers and dispatch of business, due notice
of which must be issued at least twenty days previous, to each and every member, by the Grand Secretary.
Special convocations may be called by the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master, at such time and place as he may
designate, of which due notice shall be given by the Grand Secretary.
QUORUM
At all stated convocations eleven members shall constitute a quorum, three of whom must be Grand Lodge Officers.
APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS
SEC. 17 - In event of the departure of the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master from his Office (and ONLY in such an
instance), the Deputy Grand Master shall cause the Grand Secretary to issue special notices to each and every Grand
Lodge Officer, calling an election to fill the vacancy, at the next regular convocation, from among the actual officers
of the Grand Lodge, and the officer receiving a majority of all the votes shall be declared elected for the duration of
his life or until he departs from his station; when there shall be another election. The Ill. Deputy Grand Master shall
assume the prerogatives of Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master ad interim; and in case of death or inability of the
Deputy Grand Master, the next in office shall assume his duties, and so in succession; and all Grand Lodge Officers
shall be appointed by the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master, and immediately assume the duties of their offices.
INSTALLATIONS
Installation of officers of all bodies of the Rite shall be held either in private, as soon after appointment as practicable.
Article II
REVENUE OF THE GRAND LODGE
SEC. 1 - The Revenue of the Grand Lodge shall be derived from the following sources, to wit: For all dispensations,
charters or warrants, granted to any and all Temples.

Also, for all Rituals granted to the before mentioned bodies in any State or Territory where no Mystic Temple exists,
from assessments and fees from all bodies working under its jurisdiction, and from all Degrees conferred by the
Representatives of the Sovereign Grand Master.
SEC. 2 - All charters for Mystic Temples, where no Mystic Temple exists, as well as blank charters, diplomas,
certificates, and rituals, must emanate from the Grand Lodge, with the necessary seals thereunto affixed.
FEES FOR CONFERRING DEGREES
SEC. 3 - The fee for conferring the Degrees of the Ancient and Primitive Rite shall be (unless conferred for merit):
For Symbolic Degrees of the Rite, 1st 3rd Degree...........$50 per degree.
For the Symbolic OTM Degrees, 1st 4th Degree.$50 per degree.
For all succeeding degrees..there is no fee.
At no time may these fees increase without the consent of the Grand Lodge.
DUES TO THE GRAND LODGE
SEC. 4 - Each Mystic Temple shall pay into the Treasury of the Grand Lodge each year, a tax totaling 10% of its
gross revenue. All taxes must be paid on time; Lodges in violation will acquire additional financial penalties,
suspension or expulsion.
Every subordinate body shall be accountable to the Grand Lodge, of its jurisdiction, for the assessment of each
member embraced in its returns (or to the Grand Lodge, if no Mystic Temple exists in the jurisdiction where such
subordinate is established); and each Mystic Temple shall in like manner account to the Grand Lodge.

Article III
REPRESENTATIVES
SEC. 1 - There shall be a Grand Representative of the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master in every jurisdiction where
there exists a Chapter, Senate, Council or Mystic Temple of Al Moroccan Grand Lodge (O:.O:.O:.) of the Ancient
and Primitive Rite; he or she shall be appointed by the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master for his/her official term.

Deputy Representatives may be appointed by a Grand Representative to assist him in the active portions of his duties,
subject to his supervision and direction; such appointment to be approved by the Sovereign Grand Master.
SEC. 2 - Grand Representatives shall vise all returns and reports from the Mystic Temple within their jurisdiction, to
the Grand Lodge. They shall exercise a general supervision over the workings of the Rite, and make detailed reports
on or before the first day of June in each year, to the Grand Lodge, of the condition and progress of the work within
their jurisdictions.
Article IV
P E N ALT I E S
SEC. 1 - Any Mystic Temple neglecting or refusing to make returns for more than one year, its Charter may be
suspended, and it can only be restored by paying all back dues, with an explanation for violating the constitutional
statutes and ordinances. And all Symbolic Lodges (Craft Lodges), Sublime Councils, Senates and Chapters of Rose +
Croix shall, on such suspension, make returns and payments to the Grand Lodge, until suspension is annulled.

Article V
DEGREES CONFERRED
The Ancient and Primitive Rite of Freemasonry develops the principles of Religion, as taught to man in the first ages;
and inculcates the practice and duty of paying homage to the Divine Author of our being; having for its basis the
knowledge of the existence of deity, the immortality of the soul, and man's accountability to that higher intelligence
as a rational being.
Requiring from all who enter its portals, the exercise of benevolence, the morals derived from the study of Science
and Art; also the practice of the Virtues which adorn humanity, which is the bond that unites mankind, of whatever
nation or religious sentiment, in one universal brotherhood.
It is the symbol of the sweet illusion of that hope which teaches knowledge of Him or Her, who redeems, and of
Charity, which blessed. The Ancient and Primitive Rite is composed of 97 Degrees of Science; divided for instruction
into Four Series or Grades.
1 - The first series is the Symbolic Degrees
2 - The second series is the Philosophical-Qabalistic Degrees
3 The third series is the Gnostic-Hermetic Degrees

4 - And the fourth series is the Hermetic Degrees

Whereas, the Ancient and Primitive Rite, acknowledges the Blue Lodge as the foundation and fundamental basis of
the beloved institution, to which the Masonic allegiance of all its members is due, and from which there can be no
deviation; therefore, no Mason can be allowed to join the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Freemasonry the Rite of
Memphis & Misraim, unless he is a member of a Lodge in good standing, working under a Lodge of Free and
Accepted Masons.
SECTION 1: Symbolic Degrees (Masons)
1. Entered Apprentice
2. Fellow Craft
3. Master Mason
SECTION 2: Philosophical-Cabalistic Degrees:
This section is consisting of the 4th to the 33rd degree.

SECTION 3: Gnostic-Hermetic Degrees

This section is consisting of 38 Ritual Chambers from the 34th to the 72nd degree.
Section 4 Hermetic Degrees
This section is consisting of the 73rd to the 90th degree.

SECTION 1a: Symbolic Degrees (OTM)

1. Merciful Beneficiary
2. Adored Noble
3. Guided Dove
4. Mystical Theban
**In the OTM, degrees are separated into Grades:

Grade 1: Degrees 1-8

Grade 2: Degrees 9-16
Grade 3: Degrees 17-25
Grade 4: Degrees 26-34
Grade 5: Degree 35-43
Grade 6: Degree 44-52
Grade 7: Degree 53-61
Grade 8: Degree 62-70
Grade 9: Degree 71-79
Grade 10: Degree 80-87
Grade 11: Degree 88
The Sovereign Sanctuary Degrees shall be conferred only by authorization of the Grand Lodge, or by the Most Ill.
Sovereign Grand Master.
Article VI
GRAND CHANCELRY
There shall be within the body of the Grand Lodge a Grand Chancellery (consisting of the M. Ill. Sovereign Grand
Master, the Deputy Grand Master, the Grand Secretary and the Grand Inspector General) for the conferring of the
decorations, which the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Freemasonry possess, which are as follows:
1st The Grand Star of Sirius.
2nd The Decoration of Alidee.
3rd The Decoration of the Grand Commanders of the third series of the Rite.
4th The Decoration of the Lybic Chain.
5th The Decoration of the Golden Branch of Eleuisis.
These five decorations are exclusively the reward for merit, and are regulated by the program, deposited in the Grand
Chancellery of the Rite.
The Grand Chancellery has alone the right to give these Masonic Decorations.
Article VII
SEALS

SEC. 1 - The Seal of Al Moroccan Grand Lodge and of the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master is a stamped or raised
seal, with the Masonic emblems thereon, with the mark of a Bishop and the number 142.
SEC. 2 - The Seal of the Grand Secretary is a circle, enclosing a pen and parchment.

ARTICLE VIII
HONORS
SEC. 1 - A presiding officer of a Chapter of Rose Croix, Senate of Hermetic Philosophers or Sublime Council, must
be received by the battery of the body to which he is a visitor, and the members standing, until he is seated in the
Orient.
SEC. 2 - An officer of the Mystic Temple, visiting a subordinate body officially, must be received under the arch of
staffs, and with the battery.
SEC. 3 The Deputy Grand Master, visiting officially a subordinate body, must be received under the arch of staffs,
and be conducted to the Orient by two officers of the body.
SEC. 4 - A Grand Representative or Officer of the Grand Lodge, visiting a subordinate body officially, must be
received in the same manner as the Deputy Grand Master.
SEC. 5. - On an official visit, the Most Ill. Sovereign Grand Master must be received under the arch of staffs, with
gavels beating, and be conducted to the Orient and presented with the gavel.
Article IX
SUBORDINATE GRAND LODGES
SEC. 1 - In any State or jurisdiction, where there are established three subordinate bodies of Al Moroccan Lodge of
the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis & Misraim, there may be, by the presiding officers of said bodies
petitioning, in due form, a Charter granted by the Grand Lodge for a Subordinate Grand Lodge, for such said State or
jurisdiction; said petition to be accompanied by the prescribed fee, and sealed by the proper representative.
Article X
SEC. 1 Subordinate Grand Lodges are legislative bodies, and have authority, under the Grand Lodge, in their
jurisdiction, over all the Degrees, from the 1st to the 3rd Degree, inclusive.

SEC. 2 - It is the province of Subordinate Grand Lodges to explain and develop the dogmatic and moral portion of
the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Freemasonry. It has the power to enforce the laws of the Rite for the government of
Chapters; to dedicate and consecrate their temples, and install their officers; also, to observe that the Statutes and
Ordinances of the Rite be properly enforced.
a) In each Jurisdiction (state) there must be only one Subordinate Grand Lodge.
SEC. 3. - No Master of the Subordinate Grand Lodges can be deposed unless by action of the Grand Lodge, which
shall act, only upon full and authentic reports of the Subordinate Grand Lodge.
SEC. 4 - Decisions of the Subordinate Grand Lodges, only bear authority when they have the seal of the Deputy
Grand Secretary and have been registered in the great Book of the Grand Lodge.
SEC. 5 - Each Subordinate Grand Lodge (or Craft Lodge if no Subordinate Grand Lodge exist) shall regulate the
internal affairs of its jurisdiction, and make such laws for their better government as shall be necessary for the locality
in which they may be established; provided, always, such do not conflict with the Statutes and Ordinances of Al
Moroccan Grand Lodge of the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis & Misraim. All such laws must be reported to
the Grand Lodge.
SEC. 6 - Each Subordinate Grand Lodge (or Craft Lodge if no Subordinate Grand Lodge exists) shall make an
quarterly report on or before each quarterly meeting, to the Grand Secretary, of all Degrees conferred in Chapters,
within its jurisdiction, accompanied by the Fees, as prescribed by Secs. 2, 3 and 4, Article II, of these Statutes. Such
report must be attested by the Grand Treasurer.
Article XI
OF SUBORDINATE GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
A Each Subordinate Grand Lodge is composed of eleven Grand Officers, who shall hold office for a term of two years,
to wit:
1. The Grand Master
2. The Deputy Grand Master
3. The Grand Examiner
4. The Grand Keeper of Rites
5. The Grand Annalist
6. The Grand Treasurer
7. The Grand Ceryce
8. The Grand Master of Ceremonies.

9. The Grand Conductor.

10. The Grand Captain of the Guard.
11. The Grand Guard of the Council.
ARTICLE XII
OFFICERS
SEC. 1 - The GRAND MASTER must be regarded as the legislative head of the Subordinate Grand Lodge, and is
entitled to the seat of honor, when present, at every Orient beneath the jurisdiction of his Subordinate Grand Lodge.
It is his privilege to confer the Degrees from the 1st to the 3rd, inclusive, upon a Man in good standing; and he may
grant a dispensation to a Chapter for the same.
He shall also grant dispensations for the formation of Chapters, on receipt of a petition, couched in appropriate
language, from a constitutional number of Masons within his jurisdiction; blanks for such Dispensation must be
obtained from Al Moroccan Grand Lodge.
He may, moreover, appoint such officers of subordinate bodies as may be organized under dispensation. He shall also,
in the absence of any officer of the Subordinate Grand Lodge, appoint assistant Grand Officers from among those
Patriarchs who possess the 3rd Degree, to fill the vacancy for the time being.
It is his prerogative to preside at all Installations and Consecrations. He shall, moreover, issue his dispensation for the
public procession (funerals etc) of any body within the jurisdiction of his Subordinate Grand Lodge.
SEC. 2. - The GRAND ORATOR is the second officer of the Subordinate Grand Lodge; in the event of the absence,
sickness or death of the Grand Maste, he shall assume the duties of his office; at other times he shall perform the
duties assigned to his office, by the Ritual of the Rite.
SEC. 3 - THE GRAND EXAMINER is charged with the supervision of the Rituals, Charters, Dispensations and
Diplomas, issued by the Grand Lodge to the Subordinate Grand Lodge; also to visit officially the subordinate bodies,
in order that no irregularities may corrupt the harmony of the work.
SEC. 4 - THE GRAND KEEPER OF RITES shall keep a clear copy of the of the Subordinate Grand Lodge, for the
information of the Grand Representative and the grand Lodge, and shall read the balustre at the opening of the
Subordinate Grand Lodge.
SEC. 5 - THE GRAND ANNALIST shall have charge of the correspondence of the Subordinate Grand Lodge. He
shall register all E.A.s and Members of Chapters, returned to him by subordinate bodies, within the jurisdiction of his
Subordinate Grand Lodge, with the particulars thereunto belonging.

He shall receive arid safely preserve in the archives of the Subordinate Grand Lodge all documents appertaining
thereto. He shall attest and seal all Charters, Diplomas, and other Instruments of the Subordinate Grand Lodge
emanating from the grand Lodge. He shall, furthermore, act as cashier of the Subordinate Grand Lodge, keeping a
correct account of all monies due and paid to the Subordinate Grand Lodge, which he shall pay over to the Grand
Treasurer. He shall attend all meetings of the Subordinate Grand Lodge, with the necessary books and writings, and
transmit to the Grand Lodge, and to the several Subordinate Grand Lodge, a certificate of the election of Grand
Officers, and of subordinate Officers, authenticated under his hand and seal, and that of the Grand Master.
SEC. 6. - THE GRAND TREASURER shall render an account to the Subordinate Grand Lodge at its convocations,
and a full report of its finances, with vouchers as to receipts; and no monies shall be paid out except by vote of the
Subordinate Grand Lodge, or upon the written order of the Grand Master, countersigned by the Grand Orator and
Grand Annalist.
SEC. 7. - THE, GRAND CERYCE shall present the claims, petitions and correspondence, of such subordinate bodies
as may desire official intercourse with the Subordinate Grand Lodge.
SEC. 8 - THE GRAND MASTER OF CEREMONIES shall explain and develop those portions of the Ancient and
Primitive Rite which relate to initiations and receptions, and enlighten the less instructed brethren in the knowledge
of our sublime institution, and impress upon them the importance of propagating Truth, justice, Science, Honor and
Wisdom.
SEC. 9 - THE GRAND CONDUCTOR shall introduce visitors to Subordinate Grand Lodge, attend to the
installations in subordinate bodies, and shall have, moreover, the custody of the banner of the Subordinate Grand
Lodge.
SEC. 10 - THE GRAND GUARD OF THE COUNCIL shall have charge of the inner gate of the Subordinate Grand
Lodge, and of the insignia and paraphernalia thereof, which he shall cause to be in readiness when required, at each
and every convocation of the Subordinate Grand Lodge.
SEC. 11 - THE GRAND CAPTAIN OF THE GUARD shall superintend the exercise and drill of the several bodies in
the tactics adopted by the Subordinate Grand Lodge, and officiate as Grand Marshal.
SEC. 12 - MEMBERS OF THE SUBORDINATE GRAND LODGE - Every brother of the Jurisdiction where the
Subordinate Grand Lodge sits that possesses at least the 3RD Degree.
ARTICLE XIII
CONVOCATIONS

SEC. 1 - Convocation of Subordinate Grand Lodges will be at the discretion of the Grand Master of said Lodge.
SEC. 2 - There should be at least, a biennial meeting for the election of all the officers of the Subordinate Grand
Lodge, the elected officers each to serve two years.
SEC. 3 - Quarterly Convocations may be held for the dispatch of any business of the Subordinate Grand Lodge.
SEC. 4 - Special Convocations may be convened at any time, within the jurisdiction of the Subordinate Grand Lodge,
by the Grand Master.
ARTICLE XIV
CRAFT LODGES shall develop each their own by-laws for the operation of their lodge, so long as their by-laws do
not conflict with those of Al Moroccan Grand Lodge.
THIS concludes the Constitution of Al Moroccan grand Lodge of the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis &
Misraim.

Jurisprudence for the O:.O:.O:., A:.P:.R:.M:.:.

A BEGINNERS GUIDE TO MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE

Introduction
We are told:
"Grand Lodge alone has the inherent power of enacting laws and regulations for the Government of
the Craft, and of altering, repealing and abrogating them, in manner prescribed only by the Book of
Constitution, always taking care that the Ancient Landmarks of the Order be preserved."
The powers are absolute, and must be exercised within certain bounds. Likewise it is part of the duty of
the Grand Expert:
"to examine the Bylaws of Lodges and to certify to the Board of General Purposes if they are in
accordance with the Book of Constitution and the Ancient Landmarks."
Other examples about with the Book of Constitution, which indicate that there are laws, regulations,
powers and duties which apply to Grand Lodge, Lodges and Brethren, details of which are not found
within the cover of the Book of Constitution. What are these other Rules and Regulations? Where can
they be found? What is their importance when compared with the Book of Constitution?
The answer is to be found in that all embracing title "Masonic Jurisprudence" and my task is to here
sketch an outline of its various sources.
The Dictionary tells us that "Jurisprudence is the science or philosophy of the law" . . . When then is
"Masonic Jurisprudence?" Josiah Drummond, a leading American Masonic Jurist, defines it this way
- "Masonic Jurisprudence is not the invention of new laws, or the procuring of their enactment, but the
knowledge of the ancient usages of the Craft, and of the Landmarks and Laws of the Institution. Our
laws are in many cases the usages of the Craft for many years, and it is only by a careful study of our
history, policy and customs, that knowledge of these laws is obtained."

To assist in an understanding of this very complex and interesting subject I have prepared three
examples analyzing the breakdown of Masonic Jurisprudence into various subjects.
'Masonic Jurisprudence' is divided into three principal groups named: Ceremonial Law, Moral Law,
and Judicial Law.
Ceremonial Law will not be touched except to enumerate the sources which create the rules making
ceremonial law. They are Usages and Custom; Ritual; Masonic Etiquette; Order of Precedence; Edicts
of the Grand Master; and the Decisions of the Ritual Committee. I will for present purposes
concentrate on the analysis of Judicial Law, although I note that Moral law and Judicial Law are closely
intertwined and regularly overlap. The source of Moral law are the Volume of the Sacred Law (V.S.L.);
the Ritual; and Custom. Let me turn my attention then to Judicial Law.
The most logical division of Judicial Law is into the Written Laws and the Unwritten Laws. The Laws,
customs and usages of Freemasonry may be classified, like the laws, customs, and usages of our
Parliament into two divisions - the "written laws" and the "unwritten laws". Blackstone (a well known
English legal authority) defines "the unwritten laws of Masonry" as those "whose original institution
and authority are not set down in writing, as Acts of Parliament are, but receive their binding power
and the force of law by long and immemorial usage, and by their universal reception throughout the
kingdom"; and he defines "the written laws" to be the "statutes, acts or edicts made by or with the
advice and consent of, the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and Commons in Parliament assembled."
These definitions are generally the same as the "written" and "unwritten laws" of Freemasonry.
1. The Unwritten Laws
Although at present our law is shifting gradually to the written "enactment", the "unwritten law" is still
by far the more important. In the first instance, we must rely upon it to meet all new problems, for the
legislator acts only after they attract attention. But even after the legislator has acted, it is seldom if
ever that his foresight extends to all the details of his problem or that he is able to do more than
provide a broad outline. Hence even in the field of enacted law, the unwritten element of the legal
system plays a chief part. We must rely upon it to fill the gaps in legislation, to develop the principles
introduced by legislation and to interpret them. Accordingly the unwritten or traditional element of the
legal system is and must be used even in an age of copious legislation to supplement, round out and
develop the enacted element. Moreover large areas are often untouched by enactment, and here the
traditional element is supreme. Here fundamental ideas change slowly, and may be held back at times

in the interests of uniformity and consistency, through the influence of the traditional element. In
Masonry, the most important of our jural materials are in the "traditional element." Firstly, we must
rely upon the traditional element to meet all new problems. Secondly, we must rely on the traditional
element to fill all gaps in Masonic Legislation. Thirdly, we must rely on it to interpret and to develop
legislation and fourthly, above all, as we are a universal institution and ought to legislate cautiously, we
must rely on the traditional element to furnish the principles of legislation and as a means of criticizing
legislation.
The "unwritten laws" of Freemasonry may be summed up as comprising: (1) The Ancient landmarks;
(2) The Moral law; (3) Masonic Usages and Custom; (4) Grand Master's Prerogatives; and (5) Powers
of Worshipful Master.
I will now deal individually with each of the five classifications into which the "unwritten laws" are
divided.

Ancient Landmarks
What are "Landmarks"?
Numerous attempts have been made to enumerate and to define the Landmarks of Freemasonry but as
one leading Masonic writer has said "No one has been able, or ever will be able, to compile a list of
Landmarks that will prove to be acceptable or satisfactory to all concerned. The basic principles of
Freemasonry, which are presumed to be embodied in the Landmarks, cause little trouble, for the Grand
Lodges of English speaking countries are in practical accord in this respect. The chief difficulty lies in
the determination of what a Landmark, and therefore binding upon the entire Craft and permitting of
no departure from its provisions, and what is merely a regulation, subject to modification or repeal at
the pleasure and judgment of Grand Lodges."
We should not, however, confuse "Landmarks" with Fundamental Principles. Landmarks are of human
origin and fundamental principles are Nature's Law. As an example of something which might be
universally accepted as a Landmark, perhaps the essential requisite for a candidate to believe in a
Supreme Being before he or she may be admitted to the Craft, would be as good an example as any.
The Craft ritual contains many references to Landmarks. The Candidate is told that his fidelity must
be exemplified by his strict observance of the Constitutions of the Fraternity and by adhering to the

Ancient landmarks of the Order. The Initiate is told in the course of a lecture that he may offer his
opinions under the superintendence of an experienced Master who will guard the Landmarks against
encroachment. The Master Elect is required to be well-skilled in the Landmarks and has to promise
that he will not permit or suffer any deviation from them and that it is not in the power of any man or
body of men to make innovation in the body of Masonry.
Many of the best known Masonic writers have expressed themselves on the subject of Landmarks, all
of whom acknowledge the difficulty in defining a Masonic Landmark. Just as there is no authoritative
definition, so no Landmarks are named by Grand Lodge which, in its wisdom has neither defined nor
specified them. It has been suggested that, if the Landmarks were approved by Grand Lodges, then the
same authority could "disapprove", alter, change or obliterate the Landmarks - whereas Landmarks are
unchangeable. Unfortunately there is a tendency to use the work "Landmark" as a convenient name or
description of something not having definite meaning. Examples abound of attempts to correct a
grammatical error in the Ritual as being classified as "the Landmarks being in danger" an incorrect
usage of the term.
Masonic writers often quote a list of some twenty-five so called landmarks offered by the well-known
American Mason; Albert G. Mackey (listed in an Encyclopedia of Freemasonry (1858). I would list the
following, purely as examples of Masonic Landmarks:
(1) A belief in a Supreme Intelligence.
(2) The V.S.L. having a place in every Lodge.
(3) A Candidate for Initiation to be a man or woman of mature age.
(4) The division of symbolic Masonry into three degrees.
(5) The Government of the Fraternity by a Grand Master.
(6) The Prerogatives of the Grand Master.
The Moral Law
We now come to the "Moral Law". It is suggested that there are three main sources from which a
Freemason can obtain the answer to the question, "What constitutes Moral Law?" The sources
suggested are ' The V.S.L., the Ritual and Custom.
Without going into the moral teachings contained in the V.S.L., or the Ritual, the term "Moral Law" is
accepted by various authorities as resting upon an awareness of the difference between what is "right"
and what is "wrong". In these modern days of enlightenment there can be no excuse for normal people

being ignorant of the difference between right and wrong. From childhood onwards we are surrounded
by the influences of parents, home, friends, the school, church, etc., all of which agencies held up to
know definitely what is right and hence as members of human society it is incumbent on us to do the
right thing, if we except the same be done to us. Thus, masonically speaking, the "Moral Law" can be
summed up in three principal duties - (1) Our duty to Nature; (2) Our Duty to your Neighbor; (3)
Our Duty to Ourselves.
Masonic Usage and Custom
Next we come to "Masonic Usage and Custom" or what may be called "Tradition". Tradition has been
defined as "That which is handed down at all times, and in all places and by all persons". Tradition is
one of the world's most powerful forces. Men of all ages and in every sphere of activity have to reckon
with it. No one can move without encountering it in family and commercial life, in business and in
society, in the legal world and in religion, as well as in Freemasonry. Along with the Landmarks, the
traditions which control and direct the usages of the Fraternity form no small part of its "unwritten
law", and they are of considerable use in the interpretation of doubtful points of its unwritten law. The
law which thus has antiquity, universality and common sense for its purport, must over-ride all
subsequent laws which are modern, local and have only partial agreement. A custom, once established
and recognized, breeds authority both in belief and procedure. Their tenacity and insistency make it
difficult and almost impossible to break away from them.
Tradition possesses the element of experience and it carries authority. There is no logical argument for
perpetuating a custom because it is old, and yet one cannot get away from the act that tradition makes
for orderliness and decorum. These customs develop inevitably and naturally into traditions, the worth
of which we, as masons, are bound to recognize. They ultimately coalesce as unwritten laws through
begin universally accepted over a long period.
Grand Masters Prerogatives
Further into this text are examples of the Grand Master's powers and prerogatives (not an exhaustive
list) but from the examples you will no doubt more fully appreciate what is meant when, at the
Installation of a new Grand Master, the Installing Grand Masters says - "you will be invested as Grand
Master with powers and prerogatives which will be well nigh absolute and the interests of the Craft for
weal or woe will be in your hands."

Powers of the Worshipful Master or Worshipful Mistress

As Worshipful Master or Mistress he/she holds supreme power over their Lodge but no matter what
the non-Masonic social rank of the Master or Mistress may be, they should remember that although
they are elevated beyond their brethren/sisters as what one writer has described as "an autocratic
dictator, or an amiable Democracy" their only ambition should be to increase knowledge, foster
intelligence, advance education, relieve distress, and promote all good and patriotic works, without
reference to political opinion, personal motives, or religious creed.
One salient fact that must not be lost sight of, however, is that the Craft Lodge and its Master or
Mistress antedates the Grand Lodge and its powers, as the powers possessed by Grand Lodge have
been transferred to it by the Craft Lodges. At the present time the constituent elements of a Lodge, the
power of meeting, the membership of Grand Lodge, and uncertain broad lines of conduct, both of
Lodges and of individuals are circumscribed by the regulations of Grand Lodge. However, there are
ancient rights and privileges inherent in the office of Worshipful Master which remains as the peculiar
powers of that office and no by-law may be passed which restricts those inherent powers.
Annexed hereto in are examples of the powers of the Worshipful Master or Mistress (again not an
exhaustive list, but indicative only).
2. Written Laws.
What, then, are the "written laws" which bind a Freemason? This heading which needs no further
explanation, may be divided into the following headings - (1) V.S.L.; (2) Edicts of the Grand Master;
(3) Decisions of Grand Lodge; (4) Book of Constitution; (5) Ancient Charges and Regulations; (6)
Ritual; and may be further divided into the sub-headings of (1) Decisions of the Board of General
Purposes; (2) Lodge By-Laws; and (3) Resolutions of the Lodge.
The Volume of the Sacred Law
The Volume of the Sacred Law is no mere Addendum to our ceremonies - no mere acceptance of an
old tradition. As one of the three Great Lights of Freemasonry it is vital to our whole structure and is
the very foundation upon which everything else is built. For the great majority of masons in the world
the Volume of the Sacred Law is the Bible; for our purposes it is The Book of the Law; and it is not
necessary to deal with the divine laws it contains as it will assuredly be well known to all.

Edicts of the Grand Master.

In Ancient times the Edict was a pronouncement by the "Magistrate" (of sorts) of the course which he
proposed to take in the administration of his office. It was a sort of post-election platform from which
the citizen might know what to expect from the officer in question. In this same sense we use it in
Masonry. An edict is a general administrative (as distinguished from a judicial) order prescribed the
conduct of masons is some matter of administrative knowledge. Thus, the will of the Grand Master
may become an Edict and as such it has the force of law. It is proclaimed, or promulgated, to the
brethren throughout the Jurisdiction and it is incumbent upon them to obey any such Edict of the
Grand Master.
Decisions of Grand Lodge
The functions of a Grand Lodge may be divided into three classes. They are: (1) Legislative; (2)
Judicial; (3) Executive.
In its legislative capacity, a Grand Lodge can make the laws; in its judicial, it explains and applies
them; and in its executive, it enforces them. Although by its legislative powers the Grand Lodge may
make laws, these laws must never contravene the Landmarks; for the whole power of the Grand Lodge,
great as it is, is not sufficient to subvert a Landmark. The legislative powers are therefore limited only
by the Landmarks, and beyond these it can never pass.
In its judicial functions, a Grand Lodge becomes the interpreter and administrator of the laws which it
has enacted in its legislative capacity. In the performance of its executive functions, the Grand Lodge
carries its laws into effect, and sees that they are duly enforced. Whilst the Book of Constitution
contains the laws and regulations enacted by Grand Lodge for the government of the Craft, brethren
and lodges are just as much bound to abide by the decisions of Grand Lodge on matters which come
before it. Although these decisions may not be embodied in the Book of Constitution they may be
found in the printed proceedings of the Grand Lodge which are available to all members of Grand
Lodge.

The Book of Constitution

The Book of Constitution contains the fundamental rules for the government and guidance of the
Craft and Grand Lodge itself is bound by the Book of Constitution and must abide by its provisions.
The Rules it contains are self evident.
The Ancient Charges and Regulations.
In Masonry the necessity for collating the many records containing the Ancient Regulations of the
Fraternity was realized years ago and it was directed that they be collected and, after being properly
digested, be annexed to the Book of Constitution. This was accordingly done and that portion in front
of the Book of Constitution known as "The Charges of all Members of the Order" constitutes, by
universal consent, a part of the fundamental law of our Order. These Charges concern the moral
conduct of a Member, and in their turn represent the crystallized public (Masonic) opinion of
successive ages, since the experience of the ages has shown that certain courses of conduct are most
conducive to personal happiness and general welfare.
The Ritual
"The mode of opening and closing a Lodge, of conferring the Degrees, of installation, and other
duties", says Mackey, "constitute a system of ceremonies which are called the Ritual." It is our proud
boast that Freemasonry has existed from time immemorial, but our ritual has only been committed to
writing within comparatively recent times. When Lodges were few and each one more or less selfcontained, the language used in the ceremonial was handed down by word of mouth, and there was no
need for a written ritual. When, however, owing to the increased popularity of the Craft, it became
necessary to organize it under the direction of Grand Lodges, the need arose for uniformity in the
ceremonial, so that a written ritual became necessary. The origin of the Craft Ritual is thought to be in
the lectures which were used by operative Lodges and which were continued and turned into
ceremonial by the Speculative Masons who were becoming more and more numerous in the operative
Lodges.
As our Grand Lodge only meets semi-annually to transact business, many of its administrative powers
are delegated to its Grand Officers, and to its various Boards and Committees. These Committees
evidently discharged their duties to the satisfaction of the Grand Lodge.

The Board of General Purposes

The power and responsibility of the Board of General Purposes are many and varied and it has charge
of the finances and the care and regulation of all the concerns of Grand Lodge, lodges and brethren.
Whilst the Board of General Purposes is entrusted with administrating the policy of Grand Lodge, all
business transacted by it is, of course, subject to confirmation by Grand Lodge, unless the Book of
Constitution otherwise provides.
By-Laws
Every lodge is permitted to make its own By-Laws, provided they do not conflict with the regulations
of the Grand Lodge, nor with the ancient usages of the Fraternity. Of this, the Grand Lodge is the only
judge, and therefore the original By-Laws of every lodge, as well as the subsequent alterations to them,
must, after being adopted and confirmed by the members be submitted to the Board of General
Purposes for approval and confirmation before they can become valid.
Resolutions of the Lodge
A resolution has been called a formal expression of opinion by a legislative body or public meeting. A
proposition, when first presented, is called a motion, and if adopted it becomes a resolution. Many
Lodges adopt, from time to time, certain resolutions on important subjects, and these resolutions carry
as much authority as the Book of Constitution or By-Laws until such time as they may be rescinded.
Conclusion
This introductory foray into Masonic Jurisprudence has identified the sources of the laws which affect
the Craft and the brethren. If nothing else, I trust I have dispelled any myth that the Book of
Constitution is a complete self-contained Code of Masonic Law. This preliminary overview, covering as
it does a wide range of topics in a very condensed fashion, will undoubtedly do an injustice to some of
the more complex areas of Masonic Jurisprudence, and may inadvertently have overlooked other areas.

APPENDIX A
EXAMPLES OF SOME OF THE POWERS AND PREROGATIVES POSSESSED BY THE GRAND
MASTER
It would not be possible to enumerate or define all the powers and prerogatives possessed by the
Grand Master, but some of them are as follows:
1. To convene Grand Lodge at such time and place as he may deem expedient.
2. To preside over every assembly of the Craft and at all meetings of the Grand Lodge. From this
prerogative is also derived the principle that the Grand Master may assume the chair of any lodge at
which he may be present, and govern the lodge as its Master. He is, in brief, the Head of the Craft in
his own Jurisdiction, and cannot, at any meeting of the Fraternity for Masonic purposes, be placed,
without his consent, in a subordinate position.
3. The right of appointment.
4. A second or casting vote on all questions before the Grand Lodge.
5. To authorize the formation of new Lodges and the issue of Charters therefore.
6. To grant Dispensations, that is, the dispensing with a law or regulation, or the exemption of a
particular person from the obligation to comply with its injunctions. Such Dispensation to be granted
for:
[i] A Lodge or Temple to operate (probationary period, which is usually 6 months).
[ii] Initiation of a Cherub.
[iii] Initiation on night of ballot or vote.
[iv] Number of candidates who may be initiated.
[v] Period of acquaintance.
[vi] Period of residence.
[vii] Wearing of regalia.
7. To prohibit the Initiation, Passing or Raising of a candidate.
8. To appoint or prohibit the Installation of a Master of a Lodge.
9. To issue Edicts which are mandatory for all members of the Craft to obey.
10. There can be no appeal against the decision of the Grand Master.

APPENDIX B
EXAMPLES OF THE POWERS OF THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER OR MISTRESS
1. The Master/Mistress is absolute in their lodge/temple. The craft cannot remove, censure or suspend
them, vote them from the Chair, or prevent them from taking it. No individual possesses the right of
appealing to the members against any act of the Worshipful Master/Mistress, however wrong it may
be. The craft's only redress is by way of appeal to Grand Lodge.
2. Meetings of the lodge/temple are under their full control and they may, if they so desire, vary the
business set down for a Regular Meeting provided that the provisions of the Book of Constitution are
observed. They may also, where they consider it necessary, convene an Emergency Meeting of the
Lodge/temple but may only transact the business set down on the Business Paper for the meeting, no
variation being permissible.
3. To control the admission of visitors and to refuse to admit a visitor whose presence they feel would
disturb the harmony of the Lodge/Temple, or be offensive to any one of the members. Their decision
in this regard cannot be questioned.
4. To refuse admission to a member of their lodge (to be exercised with great caution. Only in cases of
intoxication, improper clothing, or some unmistakable good reason, would its exercise be justified).
5. To postpone a ballot should they see the necessity for further inquiry.
6. To declare a motion out of order and decline to submit it to the lodge/temple. From their decision
there is no appeal, except to Grand Lodge. They have the right to regulate and terminate all discussion
and decide points of order.
7. To have direct and absolute charge of the finances of the Lodge.
8. The Master/Mistress is exempt from trial by their lodge/temple, while they are Master/Mistress.
Grand Lodge alone has any penal jurisdiction over them.