The Just Mason

Within the earliest steps of becoming a Mason are found the Four Cardinal Virtues, namely Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice. Each Virtue is explained in the lecture of the First Degree and expectations of the initiate are outlined with respect to his future conduct and the secrets of Freemasonry. It is not without reason the third section closes with the standard of Justice.

Justice is that quality of being just, maintaining impartiality, or being fair. It is conforming to what is morally upright and good, regardless of the circumstances. The lesson of the Northeast corner emphasizes the need for the initiate to act justly toward oneself, his Brothers, and the world at large. It goes beyond the "doing unto others" and is the cornerstone of conduct befitting a true Mason.

Justice toward all is a form of moral honesty and integrity which reflects upon both the Mason and the Fraternity. Being upright in dealings with others and carefully weighing one's words, acts, and deeds in the scales of fairness and day-to-day conduct is one of the highest of virtues. There is a definition of an "adult", which says simply an "adult is one, who does the right thing, at the right time, even when he does not want to." In that context, a Mason is one who does the "right" thing, period.

We are bound together by the cement of Brotherly love, affection, and fairness toward each other. It is that cement which must extend outward in our dealings with the outer world. Our actions must be such that all recognize our Masonic character. Beyond charity, each of us is a charged to be a just, upright, and good man.
Justice is generally represented by a matron, frequently with bandaged eyes, holding a pair of scales at equal level, and a sword. It is a common sight at courthouses and capitol buildings, and the symbolic lesson of fairness is there for all to see. But to the Mason, the true symbol of Justice is found the plumb and the uprightness of conduct essential to his being a Man and Mason. Look to the South, my Brother.