Philosophy & Ethics Archieven - Page 3 of 3

The Three Sieves of Socrates illustrated as a Masonic moral lesson

The Three Sieves of Socrates: A Masonic Lesson in Speech

In Freemasonry, our meetings are a blend of serious reflection and warm fellowship. Brothers chat over coffee before the lodge opens, share a drink during the interval, and linger after the closing to enjoy each other’s company. During the formal proceedings — the lodge work itself — the tone is generally more earnest, with lectures and presentations that challenge us to think deeply. Yet even then, there is always room for a well-timed anecdote. Recently, a brother shared the parable of the Three Sieves of Socrates, and it struck a chord with everyone present. It is a short story, but one well worth reflecting upon — because its lesson is as relevant today as it was in ancient Athens. The Story of the Three Sieves Socrates, the great Greek philosopher, was walking through the streets of Athens one day when a man rushed toward him in a state of excitement. “Socrates! I must tell you something about your friend who—” “Hold on a moment,” Socrates interrupted. “Before you go any further, have you passed the story you want to tell me through the Three Sieves?” “The Three Sieves? What three sieves?” the man asked, bewildered. “Let us try,” Socrates suggested […]

Freemasons sharing a heartfelt discussion about love during a Lodge comparition

Love in Freemasonry: Selflessness and Brotherly Connection

This personal account of a Masonic comparition on the theme of love remains remarkably relevant, even more than two years after the event. The openness with which brothers spoke about what love means to them strikes a universal, timeless chord. What follows is an honest reflection on selflessness, vulnerability, and the extraordinary power of brotherly connection. What Is a Comparition? I was told afterward that I had just experienced a real comparition — a traditional Masonic discussion in which brothers openly share their thoughts following the presentation of a paper. That said, the remark was quickly qualified. The previous comparition had been about the concept of the Daimon and had taken the form of a guided group discussion after an introduction by two brothers. This evening was different because the originally planned event had been cancelled at the last moment. Fortunately, one of the brothers had a Tracing Board paper — what we call a “Bouwstuk” — far enough along that he could present it. The subject: love. Love Is Everywhere Love is everywhere, and without it, there is really no life. You see love in all its forms — between partners, in the devotion someone shows to a pet, […]