What is the penalty clause described in the obligation?

• A. Binding myself by the penalty of having my body severed in twain, my bowels taken thence and burned to ashes and the ashes scattered to the four winds of heaven, that there might not remain among men or masons, trace or recollection of so vile a wrench as I, should I knowingly or willing violate or transgress any part of this master mason obligation so help me God and keep me steadfast.
• B. A monetary fine.
• C. Exile from the lodge for a year.
• D. A temporary suspension of rights.

Answer: (A)

The penalty clause in the Master Mason obligation is the ceremonial sanction tied to the oath, underscoring how seriously the vows are to be taken. The traditional wording of the obligation includes a graphic, symbolic penalty—an extreme, body-severing fate if the oath is knowingly violated—meant to show the gravity of breaking the vows and keeping sacred secrets. While in practice no lodge enforces such a punishment, the clause exists in the ritual as a stark reminder of the commitment being made. The other options describe milder, administrative penalties that do not match the described sanction in the ritual, so they aren’t the correct reflection of the penalty clause described in this obligation.