How were you received?

• A. By a handshake and welcome.
• B. By the point of a sharp instrument piercing my naked left breast.
• C. By being led to the inner chamber in silence.
• D. By being asked to recite the pledge aloud.

Answer: (B)

The moment being tested is a symbolic reception into the lodge, where the ritual conveys acceptance and binding to the fraternity. In some traditional rites, the reception includes a dramatic symbolic act—often described as a sharp instrument piercing the left breast—that represents the candidate’s willingness to be bound by the oaths and to endure what comes with membership. It’s not about actual harm; it’s a ritual symbol of commitment and entering the secret work of the lodge.

A handshake and welcome is a common, friendly greeting but doesn’t capture the solemn, initiation-signifying action that this item is pointing to. Being led to the inner chamber in silence is part of the ceremonial progression in some traditions, but it doesn’t pinpoint the reception moment itself. Being asked to recite a pledge aloud relates to taking oaths, which happens after reception, not the initial reception moment.