How Does A Freemason Shake Hands

Freemasonry is an ancient secret society which exists in various forms throughout the world. One of the most recognisable symbols associated with Freemasonry is the handshake. This special handshake is used by Freemasons to identify each other and is a sign of mutual respect. In this article, we’ll look at how a Freemason shakes hands and what it means.A Freemason Handshake is a type of handshake used by members of the Freemasons, a fraternal organization which has been in existence since the late 18th century. This special handshake is used as a way to recognize other Masons and to show their brotherly bond. It involves pressing each other’s hands firmly while interlocking thumbs and often includes secret words or phrases.

The Meaning Behind the Freemason Handshake

The handshake of Freemasons is a sign of recognition between two members of the fraternity. It is a symbolic gesture that serves to strengthen the bond between two people, and to signify that they are both part of the same organization. The handshake is made up of three distinct movements – one hand grasping the other, followed by a shake, and then a final grasp. Each movement has its own meaning and purpose.

The first movement symbolizes trust and camaraderie between two individuals, while also serving as an acknowledgment that each person belongs to the same organization. The second movement signifies a commitment to helping each other in times of need, and providing support for one another in difficult circumstances. Therefore, the third movement reinforces this commitment by symbolically sealing it with a handshake.

The Freemason handshake also serves as a form of identification between members. The distinctive movements are meant to distinguish Masons from non-Masons, who may not know or understand the significance behind the gesture. By recognizing another Mason through this handshake, each individual is able to verify their membership in the fraternity without having to divulge any personal information.

The Freemason handshake has been used for centuries as a sign of friendship and solidarity among members of the fraternity. Even today, it remains an important part of Masonic tradition and culture, serving as an outward demonstration of unity and loyalty among Masons around the world.

How Do Freemasons Shake Hands?

Freemasons have a unique way of shaking hands which is known as the ‘grips and tokens’ handshake. This handshake is used as a way of recognizing other Freemasons who are members of the same Masonic lodge. The handshake consists of two distinct parts, the ‘grip’ and the ‘token’. The grip must be performed correctly in order for it to be recognized and accepted by other Freemasons. The token is then used to identify the lodge that the two Masons are from.

The grip is performed by grasping another’s right hand firmly and pressing the thumb firmly between the knuckles of the first two fingers. This is done three times in succession with each person saying some form of words such as ‘brotherly love’, ‘friendship’, or ‘peace’.

The token is then exchanged between the two Masons, usually in a secret manner so that non-Masons do not know what they are doing. It is usually a sign or gesture that both parties know to recognize and can identify with their particular Masonic lodge.

The grips and tokens handshake has been used by Freemasons for centuries as a way to recognize one another and to identify which Masonic lodge they belong to. It is an important part of Freemasonry culture and serves as an outward sign of unity among its members.

The Traditional Handshake of a Freemason

The traditional handshake of a Freemason is known as the ‘Lion’s Paw’. It is performed by pressing the thumb in between the knuckles of both hands. This handshake is used to prove that someone is a member of Freemasonry. The Lion’s Paw has been an important part of Freemasonry for centuries, and has been passed down from generation to generation.

The handshake symbolizes the bond between two Masons, and serves as a way to recognize each other as brothers in the fraternity. When two Masons meet, they will often shake hands in this way to show their mutual respect and brotherhood. It also serves as a reminder of their commitment to uphold the principles and values of Freemasonry.

In addition to recognizing each other, this handshake is also used during initiation ceremonies and other ritualistic events. During these events, it serves as a reminder that all Masons are equal regardless of rank or station in life. The Lion’s Paw is also used during Masonic funerals, when members give their last respects to those who have passed on before them.

The traditional handshake of Freemasonry continues to be an important symbol amongst its members today. It serves as an outward expression of the values and principles that unite Masons around the world. By shaking hands in this way, they reaffirm their commitment to each other and honor those who have gone before them.

The Different Types of Freemason Handshakes

Freemason handshakes are a form of secret communication used by members of the Freemasonry fraternity. These handshakes help to identify members and allow them to communicate with each other in a discreet manner. There are several different types of Freemason handshakes, each with its own unique meaning and purpose.

The most basic type of handshake is the clasp shake, which is used to greet fellow members and exchange information. This type of handshake involves gripping the other person’s right hand firmly while pressing the knuckles together three times. This gesture has been used since the days of Ancient Greece, and was adopted by the Freemasons as a way to identify each other in public without drawing attention.

The second type of Freemason handshake is known as the five-point grip. This involves clasping hands together with all five fingers interlocked, and then pressing them together three times. This type of handshake is usually reserved for more important occasions such as initiations or meetings, as it can be used to signal recognition among higher-ranking members.

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The third type of Freemason handshake is known as the lion’s paw. This involves grasping the other person’s right hand in an upward position while pressing your thumb against theirs three times. This gesture symbolizes strength and courage, and is used on special occasions such as coronations or funerals to honor deceased members.

Therefore, there is the secret Masonic handshake which involves grasping both hands together in a specific manner while repeating certain words or phrases associated with Freemasonry. This gesture is only used among trusted members who have proven their loyalty and dedication to the craft, so it remains a closely guarded secret within Masonic circles.

Overall, there are several different types of Freemason handshakes that can be used to identify members and communicate with each other discreetly. These gestures are steeped in centuries-old tradition and continue to be practiced today by millions around the world who have sworn an oath to uphold its principles.

Are There Any Special Customs for Shaking Hands in a Freemason Lodge Room?

Shaking hands is a common way of greeting someone in many cultures, and it is something that is often done in Freemason lodges as well. However, there are some special customs for shaking hands in a Freemason lodge room. These customs may vary from lodge to lodge and from region to region, but there are some general principles that can be followed.

In most lodges, the handshake will take place between two Masons when they are greeting each other or when they are being introduced by someone else. The handshake should be firm and confident, and it should be accompanied by eye contact and a warm smile. In some lodges, the person initiating the handshake will use their left hand to grasp the other person’s right hand. This symbolizes equality between the two parties involved.

When shaking hands with someone of higher rank or authority within the lodge, some Masons will perform a special gesture known as an “obligation grip.” This involves grasping the other person’s wrist with one’s left hand while shaking their right hand firmly with one’s own right hand. This symbolizes that both parties are bound together in mutual trust and respect.

In reflection, there are certain customs for shaking hands in a Freemason lodge room that should be followed by those who wish to show proper respect to others within the fraternity. These customs serve to reinforce the principles of equality and mutual trust among all Masons.

The Symbolic Gestures of the Freemason Handshake

The Freemason handshake is a unique form of greeting that is used to recognize and identify members of the Masonic Order. This symbolic gesture is one of the oldest known rituals in Freemasonry, and it has been used for centuries as a way to show respect and brotherhood among members. The handshake consists of three distinct parts, each of which has its own special symbolism.

The first part of the handshake involves pressing the thumb firmly against the top portion of the other person’s right hand. This symbolizes the strength and solidarity between both parties, and serves as a reminder that each member should always strive to be supportive of one another.

The second part involves both parties extending their hands outwards and shaking them firmly three times in succession. This gesture signifies unity, with each person representing one-third of the Masonic Order as a whole.

Therefore, after shaking hands three times, each party will bring their hands back together with their palms facing upwards and their fingers intertwined. This symbolizes friendship, trust, and loyalty between two individuals who have come together to form a bond in Freemasonry.

Overall, these symbolic gestures are meant to remind both parties that they are part of something far greater than just themselves – they are part of an ancient order that is steeped in tradition and dedicated to upholding certain values that have been passed down for generations. By performing this ritual on a regular basis, Masons can ensure that they remain true to these principles and that they continue to build strong relationships with one another.

Does it Matter Who Initiates the Freemason Handshake?

The Freemason handshake is an important part of Freemasonry, a fraternal organization centered around the principles of brotherhood and mutual support. The handshake, or “grip” as it is sometimes known, is a symbol of unity and trust between two Masons. It is an important part of any Masonic gathering, and as such it is important to understand the significance of who initiates the handshake.

The Freemason handshake is a sign of respect and recognition between two Masons who have taken the same oaths and pledges to serve one another in brotherly love. A traditional aspect of the handshake is that it should be initiated by the more senior Mason. This shows respect for their experience and also serves to show that they are taking responsibility for being held accountable for their actions.

In some cases, it may not be known who the more senior Mason is, or there may be confusion as to who should initiate the handshake. In these cases, it can be up to either person to initiate the handshake if they feel comfortable doing so. However, if one Mason feels uncomfortable initiating it then they should politely explain why they are not able to do so and allow their fellow Mason to step in and take responsibility for initiating it.

In some cases, one Mason may have forgotten about initiating the handshake or may simply not know how to do so properly. In these situations, it can be helpful for both parties involved to gently remind each other about what needs to happen in order for a successful exchange of the grip. It can also help both parties feel more comfortable with each other if they are familiar with each other’s handshakes before attempting any kind of formal exchange.

Ultimately, while there are certain traditions surrounding who should initiate a Freemason handshake, much of this comes down to personal preference. As long as both parties involved understand what needs to happen in order for a proper exchange of grips then either party can take responsibility for initiating said exchange without fear of breaking any Masonic laws or customs..

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Last Thoughts

The Freemason handshake is a unique and intricate gesture that communicates the Masonic ideals of brotherhood, friendship, and respect. Through its many symbolic meanings and gestures, it is an important part of Masonic culture and tradition. While it may seem complicated at first, its intricacies can be easily learned with some practice. Understanding the meaning behind the handshake reveals the true depth of Masonic philosophy and strengthens the bonds between Masons.

The Freemason handshake is a powerful symbol of fraternity, trust, and mutual respect that has been shared among members for centuries. It is a gesture that unites Masons from all over the world in their common beliefs and values. While there are variations to the handshake from one region to another, each one carries with it a special meaning that underscores the shared principles of Freemasonry.

Esoteric Masons is part of USA Freemasonry.