Which elements are described as part of the due form of taking the master mason's obligation?

• A. Kneeling upon my naked knees, both hands resting upon the holy Bible, Square and Compass
• B. Standing with right hand on the Bible and a hat on
• C. Kneeling with hands on the altar and not on the Bible
• D. Sitting with hands on the knees

Answer: (A)

Taking the Master Mason’s obligation is performed with a posture and symbols that express humility and a binding commitment. The due form requires kneeling on both knees, which shows reverence and submission before the duties you’re about to undertake. The hands are placed upon the Holy Bible and upon the Square and Compass, tying the oath to sacred law and to the guiding tools of Masonry. This combination—kneeling, hands on the Bible, with the Square and Compass present—embodies the solemn oath and its witnesses.

Other postures or placements don’t fit because they either alter the posture (standing or sitting) or omit the essential witnessing objects (the Bible and the working tools). For example, standing with a hat on changes what is traditionally required, and kneeling with hands on something other than the Bible or on the altar without the Bible doesn’t fulfill the witnessed oath.