The poem "The Level and the Square" by Rob Morris encapsulates fundamental Masonic principles of equality, virtue, and brotherhood. It emphasizes that Masons, regardless of social status, meet on equal ground ("the Level") and part with integrity ("the Square"). The text reflects on the importance of moral uprightness and accountability, symbolized by the Plumb and the All-Seeing Eye, which guide members in their conduct. It conveys a vision of a future where all are equal in the afterlife, reinforcing the notion of unity and shared purpose among Masons. The poem calls for continued labor and camaraderie during earthly life, with the promise of reunion in a spiritual realm. It serves as a reminder of the values that bind the Masonic community, urging members to honor their commitments and support one another, both in life and beyond. The overarching message is one of hope, fraternity, and the enduring bonds formed through Masonic teachings.
Rob Morris
December 16th, 2025
April 16th, 2026
manual
symbolism and_philosophy
We meet upon the Level and we part upon the SquareWhat words of precious meaning those Masonic words are!Come let us contemplate them! they are worthy of a thought;In the very walls of Masonry the sentiment is wrought We meet upon the Level though from every station comeThe rich man from his palace and the poor man from his home;For the rich must leave his wealth and state outside the Mason’s door,And the poor man finds his best respect upon the chequered floor We act upon the Plumb - tis the order of our Guide -We walk upright in virtue’s way and lean to neither side;The’ All Seeing Eye that reads our hearts doth bear us witness trueThat we still try to honour God and give each man his due We part upon the Square, for the world must have its due;We mingle with the multitude a faithful band and true;But the influence of our gatherings in memory is greenAnd we long upon the Level to renew the happy scene There’s a world where all are equal – we are hurrying towards it fastWe shall meet upon the Level there, when the gates of Death are passedWe shall stand before the Orient, and our Master will be thereTo try the blocks we offer with his own unerring square We shall meet upon the level there, but never thence departThere’s a Mansion – ‘tis already for each trusting faithful heartThere’s a Mansion and a Welcome and a multitude is thereWho have met upon the Level, and been tried upon the Square Let us meet upon the Level, then while labouring patient here;Let us meet and let us labour, though the labour be severe;Already in the western sky the signs bid us prepareTo gather up our Working Tools and part upon the Square Hands round, ye faithful Brotherhood, the bright fraternal chainWe part upon the Square below, to meet in heaven again!What words of precious meaning, those words Masonic are - We meet upon the Level and we part upon the Square