What happens during the second degree?
The second degree in Freemasonry, known as the Fellow Craft degree, symbolizes the candidate's journey from ignorance to knowledge. It represents the struggles of the candidate as he seeks to attain learning and science. The candidate is expected to emerge from ignorance into knowledge, and this degree is designed to typify the struggles of the mind in pursuit of moral and intellectual truth.
During the ceremony, the candidate is 'put to his knees and takes the oath anew', which is similar to the oath taken as an Entered Apprentice but omitting three words. He is then taught the signs, posture, and words of entry, which are not explicitly described. The candidate is brought up for the entrusting, where the Master whispers the word to him through the brethren, symbolizing the transmission of knowledge.
Additionally, the second degree emphasizes the importance of geometry, which is considered the basis of Freemasonry. The candidate is encouraged to study the liberal arts, particularly geometry, as it is believed to enrich the mind and demonstrate the properties of nature. The degree also involves the concept of the 'Winding Stair', symbolizing the ascent towards greater understanding and enlightenment.
Overall, the second degree is a significant step in the Masonic journey, focusing on the development of the mind and the pursuit of knowledge.