Internal and External Qualifications

Within the Craft there is a reasonable understanding of the internal and external qualifications expected of a petitioner or candidate. Clearly "internal qualifications" refer to the inner expectations and "external qualifications" refer to the outer. However, as with our symbols, there is more depth and these charges are worthy of careful review and reflection.

The external qualifications deal with the outward fitness, moral and religious character, the frame of the body, the constitution of the mind, and social position of the applicant. The fitness to do work, moral conduct, and social responsibility are basic expectations, but within the Ritual, the "external" context emphasis that "worldly wealth or honors" are not to be considered. Wherever Masons meet and work there must be mutual respect for each other and the lesson of the Level must hold true.

The internal qualifications are the most important aspects of an applicant for they are known only to him. It is easy to see the outward person, clothing and manner, but to look within is another matter. Only on the Petition for the Degrees of Freemasonry or during the initiation process, does the initiate openly comment on his internal beliefs and, bound by his honor, open avow them. It is at this time that the true expectations and responsibilities of a Mason are outlined.

As found in the "Laws of the Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F.& A.M.", the qualifications are outlined in the petition form, notably questions 26 through 30. Here are found the basic qualifications: first, that he come forward of his own free-will and accord, unbiased by solicitations of others; second, that he is not motivated by mercenary motives; and third, that he will conform to the usages of the Order. That he is interested in learning, recognizes service and recognition of the Craft in general are likewise stated. Finally the importance of his honor in recognizing God, the immortality of the human soul, and the holy scriptures, are necessary qualifications to becoming and being being a Mason.

An applicant must freely choose to be a part of the Fraternity and be motivated to do good, both as a person and for those about him. Financial gain leads to greed and self-interest, while the Fraternity fosters Brotherhood and charity. The willingness to conform to the laws and usages of the Order are a commitment to practice established rules of conduct and behavior, doing to others that which one would expect to be done to them. The Laws of the Grand Lodge outlines many rules for behavior and clearly holds the Texas Freemason to a course of conduct designed to produce a "good man and Mason". So it is that each day, we must weight carefully our own "internal and external qualifications" as we work serving the Grand Architect and the Craft.