The 47th Problem: Finding One’s Square

by WBro. Greg Henkelman

Today, I am honoured by you, my Brethren, who have entrusted me with the station of WM. It is an office and a duty which I do not take lightly.

Some might think the journey to the East is the culmination of a path through “the chairs”, it is certainly not this simple. In fact, the jewel of the WM’s office, the Square, represents a reminder of the continuation of a Masonic journey which is so often aided by the support of a Lodge’s members.

As I prepared to install our PM this evening, I also paused to consider his jewel: the 47th problem of the first book of Euclid, better known as the Pythagorean theorem. Though Masons first learn of this discovery as the basis of Geometry and we are told to use it as an inspiration to be lovers of the Arts and Sciences in the MM charge, I also see in the theorem a pre-Pythagorean value.

In the Operative application of the theorem by ancient cultures, workmen could form square and true forms using a “rope trick”: a cable or rope divided into 3, 4, and 5 units, shaped into a triangle, could be used to frame a perfect square. A wonderfully simplistic tool with amazing, almost magical power!

It is said that when Pythagoras discovered this fundamental law of nature, he shouted “Eureka!”. When Thomas Hobbes first understood the theorem at the age of 42 while glancing through Euclid’s book, he exclaimed “By God, this is impossible!” and was apparently motivated into a lifelong study of geometry, physics, philosophy, and political science. Good men had found a secret of incredible value and went on to make their respective worlds’ better.

From a Speculative standpoint, consider who forms you, helps make you Square, as you carve the rough edges of your ashlar towards the Masonic ideal. How can you use the secret “rope trick” to better yourself and Masonry?

I still remember the thrill of being raised with Bros Shepherd and Garret. I remember practicing with WBro Morton to try to nail my obligations when it came time to impress my coach, RWBro Hickmore. I remember sitting outside with WBro Khan waiting for my turn as Hiram Abiff. I was telling him a story of an elevator ride with my father in Hawaii, when a stranger asked him when he had been “hit on the head”. I had no clue what the code meant…not knowing that within a few minutes I would understand the symbolism fully! As I have progressed, I have come to recognize the significance in my own life of the many Masonic symbols in our Institution and am thankful that such wisdom exists. I am so proud of Britannia’s tradition and standing in the Masonic community, a standing developed by Brotherly concern for each other, the work of members who became GM’s, DDGM’s, and Grand Lodge Officers, the willingness of our PM’s to stay involved, the team work of our Officers, and the outstanding attendance at our recent centennial. Brethren, we must continue our good work.

I am also proud to follow in my father’s footsteps towards the East. If Masonry takes a good man and makes him better, I would like to acknowledge that my parents made me a good man to start with. In my home, challenging discussions and debates brimmed with the idealism of Freemasonry. My father’s actions often showed me what Masonry looked like, not just what it said. How lucky was I to have both a WBro and father guiding my transition into adulthood! Many of us are fathers ourselves: I hope I am living proof that Masonic learning can guide us as we shape our own children as well.

In conclusion, like Pythagoras, we need not invent a theorem to shout “Eureka!” The solution to the problem existed long before Pythagoras found it. The Square was planted within us by the Grand Architect of the Universe. We need only find it with the help of those around us: our friends, family, and Brethren. I thank you all for helping me find my Square and look forward to building strong and true on the foundations of our past successes.