FreeMasons and the Four Cardinal Virtues: Temperance, Prudence, Fortitude and Justice

The four cardinal virtues, temperance, prudence, fortitude and justice, have been taught to Freemasons for over 300 years, and are considered values to live by. The Masons are not the original source, as these virtues actually date back to the age of Greek philosophers, in the time of Plato. Throughout the centuries these four cardinal virtues have been integrated into most religions and accepted by most modern Christian theologians: For the Jewish, in Wisdom 8:7. The Catholic Church, in the time of Saints Augustine and Ambrose, around 390. The four cardinal virtues when combined with the 3 theological virtues or graces (1 Corinthians 13) of Faith, Hope and Charity (Love - King James vers.), make the seven heavenly virtues. For hundreds of years, these have been widely accepted as morals to live by.

The first degrees of Masonry instill the importance of living all aspects of life by the four cardinal virtues, and that most moral are hinged upon these. Temperance is generally accepted as the first of these virtues. However, the four cardinal virtues are considered intertwined and inseparable. After all, what is temperance without prudence, fortitude without justice, or justice without prudence?

In Masonry, temperance is the moderation of all things. Temperance, like all of the virtues, is good for the physical body as well as spirit. A Mason is to avoid excessive, wasteful living habits, to live a balanced life. To control his temper with his brother Masons, family and all others. Not to be controlled by his emotions. No over indulging in food or drink, the latter of which can cause lapse in judgment and loss of secrets entrusted by fellow Masonry brothers Observance of temperance allows Masons of all walks of life, regardless of societal or monetary class to freely share in their commonality in the temples.

For the Mason, prudence is a two part virtue of acquiring knowledge thru both thinking and education. To be prudent is to use good judgment and reasoning. Always seek and live by the truth. By living prudently, a Mason has a clear conscience, open to knowledge and reasoning. The cardinal virtue of prudence is often called Truth, with virtual same meaning.

Fortitude gives Freemasons a 300+ year worldwide history and the claim of being the longest surviving fraternity organization. This is the value of high principles and the ability to stand by your convictions, stay the course regardless of the cost or pain endured. To give up is un-Mason-like. The virtue of fortitude implores high moral fiber and the courage to live by his convictions. This fortitude and courage has had grandious impact thru-out history.

The cardinal value of justice is one that the Mason takes one step farther than simple justice. Common aallegorical sculptures depicting justice are blindfolded, holding an equaled scale and sword. A Mason must act, with eyes wide open, unselfishly, even self-sacrificing. He must act honorably to his fellow Masons and all others. "Treat others as he would be treated" (Matthew 7:12) must be a cornerstone in the Freemason's life.

Lessons of these virtues are taught from Mason to Mason, thru tradition and rite. The knowledge learned is to be applied, individually to each man's life. Masonry is said the help good men become better men. By living with temperance, prudence, fortitude, and justice, Freemasons achieve this.