Each Grand Master leaves behind a personal mark upon his tenure through the presentation of a commemorative pin distributed among the Brethren throughout the state. These pins are far more than simple tokens or collectibles; they often contain symbols, words, and ideas that reflect the principles, values, and deeper message the Grand Master wishes to share during his year of service.
If you have already received the pin of Most Worshipful Grand Master John A. Bridegroom—or when you do—you may notice the phrase *Temet Nosce* inscribed upon it. These ancient words carry a profound meaning: *Know Thyself*. Yet behind this simple translation lies a lesson that has challenged philosophers, seekers, and wise men for centuries.
“Temet Nosce” is far more than a call to simple self-awareness. It speaks to the lifelong journey of understanding one’s own nature, motives, virtues, weaknesses, and place within the greater order of existence. It teaches that before a man can truly understand the world around him, he must first look inward and come to understand himself.
This principle rests at the very heart of Freemasonry. The Craft does not merely seek to gather men together within a fraternity; it seeks to transform and refine them through reflection, discipline, and moral improvement. Every working tool, every symbol, and every degree encourages the Mason to examine himself honestly—to chip away ignorance, ego, vice, and prejudice, just as the rough ashlar is shaped into a stone fit for the building of the Temple.
To “Know Thyself” is to recognize both the light and the imperfections within. It requires humility to acknowledge faults, wisdom to seek truth, and strength to pursue continual improvement. In this way, the phrase becomes inseparably connected to the great tenets of Freemasonry: Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. A man who truly knows himself develops compassion for others because he understands that all men labor under their own imperfections and struggles. He becomes more patient, more charitable, and more willing to extend Relief where it is needed. Most importantly, he becomes devoted to Truth—not only external truth, but the truth found within his own character and conduct.
Freemasonry teaches that the Temple is not built solely of stone, but within the heart and soul of each Mason. “Temet Nosce” reminds us that this inner labor is never truly complete. The journey toward wisdom lasts a lifetime, and every lesson, every degree, and every virtuous act becomes another step toward mastering oneself.
For in the end, the greatest conquest a man can achieve is not over others, but over himself.
MWGM John A. Bridegroom's pin:
