Liberal Arts and Sciences
Many of us in the Craft have heard the phrase “the Liberal Arts and Sciences” countless times. Yet if we are honest with ourselves, how many could name all seven without hesitation? Fewer still could clearly explain their meanings, let alone place them in their proper Masonic and esoteric context, or describe their role in shaping a well-rounded mind.
“Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars.”
Proverbs 9:1
Over the next seven weeks, I invite you to join me in revisiting these “seven pillars” one by one. Together we will explore not only their historical and symbolic place in the Craft, but also their practical value in life today. Along the way, I encourage you to share your own reflections: anecdotes from Lodge or life, favourite quotations, or curious insights from your personal study.
Week 1 - Grammar
Our journey begins with Grammar, the first discipline of the Trivium. Grammar is far more than the mechanics of language, it is the art of building the very foundations of thought. By giving us both vocabulary and the rules to use it well, Grammar enables all meaningful communication. In Masonry, precision of language preserves the purity of ritual, the accuracy of our lectures, and the integrity of symbolic teaching. Without it, the deeper truths woven into our allegories can quickly become clouded, distorted, or lost.
So I ask you:
How has the study, or disciplined use of Grammar, whether in ritual, lectures, or daily life, shaped your Masonic journey?
Do you have anecdotes, “fun facts,” or favourite quotations that reveal its place in the Craft?
Share them, and let’s build together.
If your attention spans more than 18 seconds 😊, I have added a bit more for your further contemplation.
Where does the Liberal Arts and Sciences come from?
The Trivium and Quadrivium
Within Masonry, the seven liberal arts form the backbone of intellectual and spiritual development. The first three, known as the Trivium (Grammar, Logic, Rhetoric), cultivate the art of language and reasoning; while the Quadrivium (Arithmetic, Geometry, Music, Astronomy) trains the mind to perceive harmony, measure, and the hidden order of the universe. In Masonry, these arts symbolize the progressive refinement of both intellect and spirit, forming a path from basic understanding to universal wisdom (Joseph & McGlinn, 2002).
Introduction to Grammar
As we journey along the path of self-discovery, Grammar is the gateway to all the other liberal arts. It is the discipline that enables us to “come to terms”, to define, distinguish, and synthesise ideas with clarity and purpose. Far beyond a collection of rules, Grammar, in the classical sense, is the art of inventing symbols and combining them to express thought. This foundational stage equips us to absorb, structure, and transmit knowledge, not just in language, but across all disciplines (Robinson, 2013).
In Masonic symbolism, Grammar is reflected in the structured language of ritual and the careful choice of words inscribed on our tracing boards and in lectures. Just as a poorly laid foundation dooms a building, so too does imprecise grammar undermine understanding in the Craft and in the world. As young apprentices, we memorize context and vocabulary; as we advance, Grammar provides the scaffolding for deeper inquiry, initiatory learning, and the unlocking of tradition’s encoded wisdom (Nairn, 2011).
In practical Lodge work and personal study, mastery of Grammar underpins our ability to communicate, to teach, and to inspire. It reminds us, in both operative and speculative senses, that careful preparation and respect for rules are prerequisites for creation, order, and progress, echoing the very process by which humanity shapes order from chaos.
Feel free to share your perspectives:
What is your experience with Grammar, Masonic, professional, or otherwise?
Have you encountered a moment when precise use of language changed the course of a Lodge meeting, a personal conversation, or your understanding of symbolism?
References:
Joseph, S. M., & McGlinn, M. (2002). The trivium: The liberal arts of logic, grammar, and rhetoric. Paul Dry Books.
Robinson, M. (2013). Trivium 21c: Preparing young people for the future with lessons from the past. Crown House Publishing.
Nairn, R. J., [Rt Wor Bro ] (2011) Grammar – Masonic Authors. Linford Lodge of Research. URL: http://linfordresearch.info/fordownload/Research%20Papers/Nairn%20Trivium%20grammar.pdf
Hi David. Thanks mate. Trying to find other ways to engage.