Why do Masons call themselves "Worshipful Master"?

Lets put this baby to bed! Does anyone think Websters Dictionary is a secret wing of the AF&AM or the F&AM? Here's Websters definition of "Worship" and "Worshipful" as it pertains to Old English.



Main Entry: wor·ship

chiefly british : a person of importance —used as a title for various officials (as magistrates and some mayors)


Main Entry: wor·ship·ful
aarchaic
Date: 14th century
aarchaic : notable , distinguished - chiefly British —used as a title for various persons or groups of rank or distinction

www.merriam-webster.com...

The term "Master" is derived from "Magistrate"

It all makes sense when consider that the first lodges in the United States were Chartered by the Grand Lodge of England.

Originally posted by doctordoom
The term "worshipful master" has a Jonestown ring to it to me.

Let's take a look at the word "worshipful".

The American Heritage Dictionary defines worship as "the reverent love and allegiance accorded a deity, idol, or sacred object." The Greek words for worship combine the ideas of "falling down before," "paying homage to," and "serving." From these definitions it is obvious that worship involves recognition of worth in God, and the offering of our honor, praise, and adoration to the One who is altogether worthy.

www.newtestamentchurch.org...

The word worship is reserved for a deity, idol or sacred object.
What makes a Mason a deity?
It's rather quite silly if you ask me.

So, I guess my question is, do you actually worship the "Worshipful Master" if you are a lower Mason?

Also, is there a higher level than the "Worshipful Master"?

Check out a Google search of the term "worshipful"

[edit on 20-12-2008 by doctordoom]

A Worshipful Master is simply the person who conducts the lodge meetings, like the judge in a courtroom (or like the Speaker of the House in Congress). After the members have gathered, the Worshipful Master calls the members to order and the meeting begins.

Some people say that the Worshipful Master is part of a Masonic trinity, but I doubt it.

Originally posted by vcwxvwligen
Some people say that the Worshipful Master is part of a Masonic trinity, but I doubt it.

The Masons in a lodge take turns (1 year each) to be Worshipful Master. Everyone moves into a different position each year.

Being part of a "Masonic trinity" would mean having a "deity" for only one year, which is rather absurd, so I think your doubt is well founded!