"Now this was the manner in former times in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing for to confirm all things; a man plucked off his and gave it to his neighbor..." Ruth 4:7 (Masonic Bible)

During the ceremonies of the Entered Apprentice Degree, the candidate is instructed about the above-referenced passage of scripture from the Masonic Bible, which is meant to indicate both the confirming of a contract, as well as the commitment to fully perform the terms and conditions of that contract. In Freemasonry, this symbolism is intended to convey the sanctity of the contract made between the candidate and the Masonic institution when he assumes his vows. For the Israelite of Ruth's era there was nothing more essential than shoes, or sandals without which men and women were compelled to walk across hot sands, dirt and rock. Consequently, giving a shoe to another person not only conveyed the importance of the commitment, but a sense that the person to whom the shoe was given was as important as the person giving it.

This symbolism is repeated throughout Masonry by way of different lessons, because it is the purpose of the Craft to ensure that each Mason appreciates the importance of his vows and promises. Entire charitable institutions rely upon the keeping of such commitments. Hospitals operated by Shriners would vanish if Masons suddenly decided it was unimportant to care for the helpless. Homes for the aged would no longer receive funding if groups of Masons turned their backs on the needs of others. Members of individual Masonic lodges would never experience random acts of kindness by their brethren if Masons concluded that self interest was more important than assisting others. It is the agreement, or covenant made by each Mason that guarantees that the world will experience the fruits of Masonic labor. Yet, as with other Masonic symbolism, there are also other esoteric lessons to be learned from the Masonic Bible scripture found in the book of Ruth.

"Now this was the manner in former times in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing for to confirm all things; a man plucked off

his and gave it to his neighbor..."

Ruth 4:7