The Masonic Decalogue

The Masonic Alliance is an association of free men, whose origin stems from the medieval building brotherhood. Its foundation is the pure ethical law, which finds its expression in the Masonic regulations, and especially in the so-called “Old Duties of Free Masons”.

All men, of any calling and profession, regardless of material status or position, having been born under the equal laws of nature, have equal rights in society. Therefore, Free Masons meet as Brothers, and consider their Alliance a Fraternal Alliance. In the same sense, they cultivate and spread brotherly love towards their neighbors in profane circles.

All work and the entire life in the Alliance are based on love, truth, justice, and humanity. Starting from this foundation, the Alliance transmits the aforementioned virtues to profane society: – through symbolic rites and customs in the Royal Art; – through the educational cultivation of the feeling of humanity towards neighbors; – through a regular family and personal life; – through exemplary work on everything that is good, beautiful, and useful, both for the whole and for individuals.

Masons respect the Great Architect of all worlds and tolerate everyone’s faith. However, the Alliance does not belong to any sect or dogma; it therefore performs neither religious nor church worship. In it, every Brother is dear, whatever his faith.

As an open opponent of any restraint on freedom of conscience, religion, and opinion, the Masonic Alliance defends by all legal means these individual inviolabilities. And as a proponent of personal rights and convictions, it is also an opponent of any pressure and prevention of religious and political beliefs.

Masons of Serbia love their Fatherland; they are devoted and faithful to it. They consider it their duty to defend its freedom, independence, and the inviolability of its entirety, cooperating in the maintenance of internal order and peace – by word, by writing, and by deed. Therefore, they may participate in every public affair; but in this, they should always be guided by Masonic principles. For, by acting thus in their Fatherland, they contribute to the well-being of all humanity.

Lodges are peaceful and closed Workshops. Mutual exchange of information on religious, political, and social matters in general is not excluded within them, but always within the limits of Masonic principles. However, personal self-determination outside the Lodge is free.

The Masonic Alliance admits into its midst free men of good repute and driven by the desire to cultivate virtues and morality in society. It does not distinguish their nationality, their political beliefs, or their civil status. But it does not allow propaganda among its members; it only gives, at its discretion, requested information if it finds that any of the interested parties would be a worthy member of the great Masonic Family.

The History of Freemasonry, its principles and its aims are not secret. But it is forbidden to divulge the existing inner rites and established signs of recognition.

Masons are obliged to be faithful and loyal to the laws of their Lodge. They preserve its inviolability against anyone who does not belong to the Alliance; they defend Masonic interests and avoid discussing Masonic matters in profane circles.

Masons are free to withdraw from the Alliance, in accordance with existing regulations, whenever they see fit.

Family life among Masons, as well as relations with Masonic families and even with profane circles, is cultivated on the highest moral basis and is considered sacred.