The poem "Wearing The Emblem" by Rob Morris emphasizes the moral and ethical responsibilities that accompany the symbols of Freemasonry, specifically the Square, Compass, Trowel, and the letter G. Each emblem represents a fundamental principle: the Square denotes virtue and moral integrity; the Compass signifies the importance of adhering to divine law and excluding negative emotions; the Trowel symbolizes the act of fostering unity and goodwill among individuals; and the letter G serves as a reminder of the omniscient presence of God, urging members to maintain purity of thought and speech. Morris calls upon Masons to internalize these teachings, ensuring that the values represented by the emblems are reflected in their actions and character. The poem serves as a moral guide, reinforcing the idea that true Freemasonry is not merely about wearing symbols but embodying the principles they signify in everyday life.
Rob Morris
December 16th, 2025
April 2nd, 2026
manual
education and_development
You wear the Square! but have you got That thing the Square denotes? Is there within your inmost soul That principle which should control Your actions, words and thoughts? The Square of virtue,is it there, Oh, you who wear the Mason's Square? You wear the Compass! Do you keep With that circle due That's circumscribed by law divine Excluding hatred, envy, sin,Including all that's true? The Moral Compass draws the line, And lets no evil passion in! You wear the Trowel! have you got That mortar, old and pure, Made on the recipe of God Divulged within His ancient Word, Indissoluble, sure? And do you spread, `twixt man and man, That precious mixture as you can? You wear the oriental G! Ah, Brother, have a care! He whose All-seeing Eye surveys Your inmost heart, with open gaze, Knows well what thoughts are there! Let no profane, irreverent word Go up t' insult th' avenging God! Dear Brother! if you will display These emblems of our Art, Let the great morals that they teach Be deeply graven, each for each, Upon an honest heart! Then they will tell, to God and man, Freemasonry's all perfect plan!