What are the Secrets and handshakes?
One of the questions most often asked about Freemasonry is, “What are the secrets and handshakes?” Popular culture has created many myths around the subject, often portraying them as mysterious or dramatic. In reality, the traditional signs, words, and handshakes of Freemasonry are symbolic methods of recognition, rooted in history and designed to teach lessons of trust, honour, and integrity rather than conceal anything sinister………….
Freemasonry is often described as a “secret society,” but in truth it is far more accurate to describe it as a society with private traditions. Its existence, values, charitable work, buildings, and membership are all openly visible to the public. What Freemasonry does preserve privately are its ceremonies and rituals, not because they contain dark secrets, but because the experience itself is intended to be personal, meaningful, and memorable for each new member as they progress through their journey.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Freemasonry is the preservation of its ritual traditions. The ceremonies performed in lodges today closely follow structures and teachings that have been passed down for centuries, with many elements tracing back to the formation of the first Grand Lodge in 1717. While language and presentation may have evolved slightly over time, the core lessons, symbolism, and moral teachings remain fundamentally unchanged. In many ways, participating in a Masonic ceremony is like stepping into a living piece of history, connecting modern members directly to generations of Freemasons who experienced the very same words, signs, and ceremonies before them.
The rituals themselves can best be compared to a series of carefully prepared mini plays or theatrical performances. Every ceremony has its own script, structure, symbolism, and stage directions. The officers of the lodge spend many hours learning and memorising their parts, much like actors preparing for an important performance. Attention is given not only to the words themselves, but also to timing, atmosphere, and presentation, all with the aim of creating the best possible experience for the candidate or members present that evening.
This is where the small element of secrecy within Freemasonry truly comes into play. The privacy is not about hiding dangerous knowledge or excluding the world, but about preserving the impact and meaning of the experience itself. Imagine attending a theatre performance and, as you walk through the foyer, an usher tells you every twist, surprise, and ending before the curtain even rises. No matter how well the actors perform, some of the wonder and anticipation would already be lost. Freemasonry views its ceremonies in much the same way.
For a new candidate entering the lodge for his Initiation, it is like stepping into the beginning of a three-act play. Each ceremony introduces new lessons, symbolism, and discoveries that unfold gradually throughout his Masonic journey. By keeping the details of these rituals private, Freemasonry allows each member to experience that sense of curiosity, reflection, excitement, and discovery for themselves. Every degree becomes a memorable milestone, not simply because of what is said, but because of how it is experienced personally and without spoilers, preserving the sense of wonder that has been part of Freemasonry for centuries.
The "funny handshake"
To understand their purpose, it is important to look back to the origins of organised craftsmanship centuries ago. In a time long before passports, certificates, LinkedIn profiles, or printed CVs existed, skilled craftsmen travelled from town to town seeking employment on major building projects such as castles, cathedrals, and public buildings. A mason arriving at a new worksite needed some reliable way of demonstrating his level of training and experience to those already working there. The traditional methods of recognition allowed this to happen discreetly and efficiently.
As a mason progressed through the stages of learning — from Initiate or Entered Apprentice, to Fellow of the Craft, and finally to Master Mason — he was taught different methods of recognition connected to each stage. These represented not only practical proof of his advancement, but also the personal growth, discipline, and knowledge expected at that level. Each degree symbolised a step in moral and intellectual development, reminding members that advancement was earned through dedication and self-improvement rather than status or wealth.
The handshakes and signs themselves are therefore less about secrecy, and more about shared tradition and mutual trust. They create a bond between members across countries and cultures, providing a symbolic connection to the generations of craftsmen and Freemasons who came before them. Even today, they serve as reminders of equality and fraternity, reinforcing the principle that all members meet “on the level,” regardless of their profession, background, or position in society.
While Freemasonry does preserve certain private traditions for its members, the organisation itself is far from secret. Its values, charitable work, and principles are openly discussed and widely published. The traditional methods of recognition simply preserve an important part of Masonic heritage — a living link to the history of skilled craftsmen, personal honour, and the lifelong journey of learning that Freemasonry represents.