Widow’s Son

A term which has been used in many mystery traditions in history, including Ancient Egypt (Isis, The Widow) and Manechism (Manes, the adopted Son of a Widow) but is today known as an identifying phrase between Freemasons representing the master architect of Solomon’s temple, Hiram Abiff. Commonly used in passing by Masons in order to identify each other.

Do you know the Widow’s Son (if yes, the person is likely a Freemason)

On the Square

A Freemasonic term based on the square level used by ancient & modern stone masons. According to "Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Vol II, Albert Mackey" the meaning of the square is:

"... In Freemasonry, it is a symbol of morality. This is its general signification, and is applied in various ways: 1. It presents itself to the neophyte as one of the three great lights; 2. To the Fellow-Craft as one of his working tools; 3. To the Master Mason as the official emblem of the Master of the Lodge" (Enc. of Freemasonry Vol II, Albert Mackey pp. 708)

Thus, the term "on the square" is much the same as "squared away," or "fair and square." To talk to a person "on the square" means to talk in a blunt and straightforward manner, as not to beat around the bush.

Let's talk 'on the square' (to speak candidly, bluntly, and in a straightforward manner)

“that which is lost”

A phrase used in many mystery traditions, including modern freemasonry, one way Masons may identify each other is as follows:

“Are you a traveling man?”
“Yes”
“Where do you travel?”
“I travel from West to East and then from East back to West, in search of that which is lost”

The true meaning of “that which is lost” refers to the missing phallus of Osiris in the Egyptian mythos. According to legend, Osiris is murdered and dismembered into 14 pieces, his wife, the widow Isis recovers all 14 save for his phallus, which was thrown into the Nile and consumed by 3 fish. The three fish represent: Ignorance (The Mob/People), Superstition (The Church) and Fear (The State)

That ancient Obelisk represents this missing phallus.

“Are you a traveling man?”
“Yes”
“Where do you travel?”
“I travel from West to East and then from East back to West, in search of “that which is lost” ”