What is the best thing about the first degree? The first degree, or Entered Apprentice degree, is often regarded as the most profound and impactful within Freemasonry. It marks the beginning of a transformative journey, introducing the candidate to the core principles of morality, brotherhood, and self-improvement. As Albert Pike states in Morals and Dogma, "The ceremonies of Masonry are designed to impress upon the mind the great truths of morality and virtue." The best aspect of this degree is arguably the profound sense of awakening it provides, along with the introduction to a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. It symbolizes the transition from the darkness of ignorance to the light of understanding, fostering a commitment to becoming a better person and contributing positively to society.