What Is a Cowan in Masonry
A cowan in Masonry refers to an intruder or someone who tries to enter a Freemason’s lodge without permission.
The term originated in Scotland and was first mentioned in a Scottish manuscript from 1598.
It was later introduced into English Freemasonry in James Anderson’s book of Constitutions in 1738.
Today, a cowan simply refers to a person who is not a Freemason.
Therefore, in Masonry, a cowan is someone who pretends to be a Freemason or tries to access its secrets without being a member.
Did You Know?
1. The term “Cowan” in Freemasonry refers to an individual who is not a Freemason and has no knowledge or understanding of the craft. This term originated from Scotland and Ireland, where it was used specifically to identify non-Masons who sought to gain access to the secrets of the Freemasons.
2. The word “Cowan” is thought to derive from the old Scottish language “Colban,” which meant a “person in disguise.” This is fitting, as a Cowan is someone who tries to gain entry to Masonic ceremonies or events under false pretenses.
3. Cowans are generally regarded as outsiders to the Masonic fraternity and are not allowed to attend or participate in Masonic meetings, rituals, or ceremonies. They are considered uninitiated individuals who lack the proper understanding and commitment to the principles and values of Freemasonry.
4. Historically, Cowans were viewed with suspicion and mistrust in Masonic circles, as their intent to infiltrate the organization was seen as a threat to the secrecy and integrity of the craft. Freemasonry places great importance on maintaining the privacy of its rituals and ceremonies.
5. While Cowans are not accepted as Masons, they are recognized within the fraternity as people who may have an opportunity to join and be initiated if they express a genuine interest in becoming a Freemason and adhere to the necessary requirements.
Origin And Usage Of The Term “Cowan” In Masonry
The term “Cowan” in Freemasonry originated in Scotland and is deeply rooted in the craft’s history. It can be traced back to a Scottish manuscript from 1598, where it referred to an individual who was not initiated and was attempting to enter a Freemason’s lodge. Eventually, this term became incorporated into the rituals and traditions of English Freemasonry when it was included in James Anderson’s influential book of Constitutions in 1738.
- The term “Cowan” originated in Scotland.
- It first appeared in a Scottish manuscript from 1598.
- The term refers to an uninitiated person seeking entry to a Freemason’s lodge.
- James Anderson included the term in his influential book of Constitutions in 1738.
“Cowan” is a term in Freemasonry that refers to an uninitiated individual trying to gain access to a lodge.
Cowan: A Definition And Historical Background
In the context of Freemasonry, a Cowan is someone who attempts to infiltrate a lodge without permission or pretends to be a Freemason. The term can also refer to a mason who has not served an apprenticeship or an individual who builds dry stone walls. While the exact etymology of the term remains uncertain, it is undeniably a purely Masonic term with a long-standing history in the craft.
Throughout the centuries, the term “Cowan” has evolved and taken on different meanings. In the eighteenth century, it was adopted by speculative Masons, those engaging in philosophical rather than practical aspects of the craft, to designate someone who was irregular or uninitiated. This allowed Freemasons to identify those who sought to gain access to their secret knowledge or privileges without having undergone the necessary ceremonies and rites.
- A Cowan is someone who infiltrates a lodge without permission or pretends to be a Freemason.
- The term also applies to masons who haven’t gone through apprenticeship and to individuals building dry stone walls.
- The term “Cowan” originated in Freemasonry and has a long-standing history in the craft.
- In the eighteenth century, speculative Masons used the term to identify those who were irregular or uninitiated.
- It helped Freemasons safeguard their secret knowledge and privileges from unauthorized individuals.
The Role Of Cowans In Operative And Speculative Masonry
To truly understand the role of Cowans in Freemasonry, it is important to explore both operative and speculative Masonry.
Operative Masonry refers to the craft as it was practiced by stonemasons in medieval times, constructing cathedrals and other grand structures. Cowans in this context were individuals who claimed to possess the skills and knowledge of a stonemason without undergoing the proper apprenticeship or training.
Speculative Masonry, on the other hand, emerged in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and focused on the moral and philosophical teachings associated with the craft. Within this realm, a Cowan became synonymous with an imposter, someone attempting to gain access to the esoteric teachings and traditions of Freemasonry without the legitimate credentials of being initiated into the fraternity.
- Operative Masonry involved the physical construction of buildings.
- Cowans were people who falsely claimed to be skilled stonemasons.
- Speculative Masonry focused on moral and philosophical teachings.
- Cowans in this context were imposters seeking to gain access to Freemasonry without being properly initiated.
Note: Speculative Masonry brought a shift in the meaning of “Cowan” to refer to imposters in Freemasonry.
Evolution Of The Term “Cowan” In Freemasonry
As Freemasonry evolved, the term “Cowan” also evolved in its significance. Originally referring to someone who was uninitiated or irregular, it now broadly means a person who is not a Freemason. This shift reflects the changing dynamics and priorities of modern Freemasonry.
In today’s Freemason community, the term Cowan is still used to denote those outside of the fraternity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the integrity and exclusivity of the Masonic tradition. Cowans, though not inherently negative or malicious, are viewed as outsiders lacking the understanding, enlightenment, and commitment offered by membership in the fraternity.
Modern Significance Of Cowans In The Freemason Community
The presence of Cowans in the Freemason community serves as a constant reminder of the need for vigilance in guarding the secrets, rituals, and teachings of the Craft. Freemasonry places great value on the bond shared by its members and the progressive journey of self-improvement that occurs within the lodge.
Moreover, the term “Cowan” also underscores the importance of seeking truth and knowledge through the proper channels. It serves as a reminder that Freemasonry is not simply a collection of secret knowledge but a path of spiritual growth, enlightenment, and moral values. Cowans, by their very nature, miss out on the deeper understanding and benefits that Freemasonry offers to its members.
In conclusion, “Cowan” in Freemasonry defines an individual who attempts to deceive or infiltrate the fraternity without proper initiation. The term has a rich historical background originating in Scotland and finding its way into English Freemasonry in the eighteenth century. Today, Cowans serve as symbolic reminders of the importance of preserving the sacred traditions, moral values, and fellowship that define the Freemason community.
- Cowans remind us to be vigilant in guarding the secrets of Freemasonry
- Freemasonry values the bond between its members
- Seek truth and knowledge through proper channels
- Freemasonry is a path of spiritual growth and moral values
“Cowan” defines an individual who tries to deceive or infiltrate the fraternity without initiation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are cowans and eavesdroppers?
Cowans and eavesdroppers are two intriguing figures with distinct yet interconnected roles. In the realm of secret societies, cowans referred to individuals who lacked formal training or affiliation with a lodge, particularly within the realm of operative masonry. Historically rooted in old Scottish traditions, cowans were often characterized as outsiders in the world of Freemasonry or other secretive organizations. Interestingly enough, cowans possessed the potential to excel as eavesdroppers due to their non-affiliation and outsider status. Eavesdroppers, on the other hand, were individuals who engaged in the act of secretly listening to private conversations or spying on others – essentially, a clandestine observer or eavesdropper. This parallel between cowans and eavesdroppers highlights an irony that an untutored cowan could very well utilize their outsider status to become successful eavesdroppers, utilizing their lack of affiliation to surreptitiously monitor hidden conversations or gather secretive information.
What are the three jewels of masonry?
The three essential pillars of freemasonry embody different virtues and lessons. The Square, positioned to the East, stands as the symbol of morality, reminding Masons to align their actions with ethical principles. The Level, found to the West, represents equality, reinforcing the importance of treating all individuals with fairness and impartiality. Finally, the Plumb, located to the South, embodies decency of conduct, encouraging Masons to maintain upright behavior and uphold high standards of personal integrity. Together, these three jewels serve as guiding principles for Freemasons, fostering a moral and virtuous life.
What are the 3 lesser lights?
The three lesser lights serve as symbolic representations within the lodge. One light is representative of the sun, embodying its authority over the day. The second light symbolizes the moon, signifying its influence over the night. Lastly, one light represents the Worshipful Master, highlighting their role in ruling and governing the lodge with consistency and order, mirroring the regularity of the sun and moon in their respective domains.
What is the pomegranate in masonry?
The pomegranate in masonry symbolizes the profound connection shared among Freemasons during their initiation rituals. It serves as a representation of the spiritual bond that creates “the fruit of Brotherhood.” The pomegranate’s outer shell, tough and bitter, illustrates the contrast between surface perceptions and genuine reality, reminding Masons to seek the truth beyond mere appearances.
