what are we specifically allowed and not allowed to tell the profane?

Members are restricted from divulging the modes of recognition, describing initiation ceremonies, or revealing anything strictly esoteric and improper to be made known 3. The arcana or inner mysteries, handed down by oral tradition as unwritten landmarks, are preserved within the lodge and withheld from writing to avoid schisms and maintain esoteric instruction 2. Beyond the ritual itself, the internal, personal impression that symbolic instruction produces upon a Mason's heart is regarded as private 3.

Outside these esoteric bounds, much of Masonic life and instruction is open to public knowledge. Members may discuss the fraternity's history, scripture references, public Constitutions, printed annual Proceedings, and historical obligations published in scholarly works 32. The physical aspects of a lodge—such as meeting times, the names of officers, the furniture, music, wall charts, and general layout of the lodge room—carry no secrecy and may be spoken of freely 3.

Similarly, the ethical lectures delivered in meetings, social gatherings, and the extensive charitable activities undertaken for members, families, and the wider community are entirely unreserved 1. The fraternity maintains public temples, operates open libraries, and publishes thousands of books and journals, making it a society with secrets rather than a secret society 2.