The Tyler is an officer of a Masonic Lodge, a position of significant tradition and function within the fraternity. This role is an essential part of the Lodge structure, and the Tyler is responsible for upholding the integrity of the meeting space and its proceedings. The Tyler’s duties and symbolic importance reflect the deep historical roots and philosophical principles of Freemasonry. This officer’s presence is a constant reminder of the vigilance and discipline required of every Mason.
Defining the Role and Terminology
The Tyler is specifically positioned outside the door of the Lodge room once the meeting has formally begun. This placement distinguishes them as the “Outer Guard,” the line of demarcation between the world at large and the exclusive, purposeful work conducted within the Lodge. The Tyler is always a Master Mason, the highest degree in Craft Freemasonry, ensuring the officer is fully qualified to perform the duties of the station.
The spelling of the title often appears as either “Tyler” or “Tiler,” and both are generally accepted within the fraternity. Historical Masonic records dating back to 1732 show the spelling “Tyler” in use, which contributes to its current prevalence in many jurisdictions. The different spellings refer to the exact same position and responsibilities, though “Tyler” is often considered the older and more traditional form. This office is a testament to the fraternity’s commitment to order, which requires a dedicated officer to manage the entrance and exit of all who approach the closed door.
Historical Roots of the Tyler’s Office
The origin of the term “Tyler” is rooted in the history of operative masonry, involving stonemasons and builders of physical structures. The name connects to the occupation of a tiler, the craftsman responsible for covering a building with tiles to protect it from the elements. The Latin word tegula, meaning “to cover,” is thought to be the root of the English word “tile.” Just as an operative tiler ensured the roof and walls concealed the interior, the Masonic Tyler figuratively “covers” or seals the Lodge from observation. This protection was particularly relevant when early lodges often met in public buildings where privacy was not guaranteed. The earliest documented mention of the specific title “Tyler” appears in the minutes of the Grand Lodge of England in 1732, evolving from earlier terms like “doorkeeper.”
Core Responsibilities of the Tyler
The functional job description of the Tyler centers on the procedural integrity and security of the Lodge meeting. The primary duty is to “tyle the door,” which means securing the entrance against unauthorized entry, referred to as “cowans and eavesdroppers.” The Tyler’s responsibilities extend to vetting any brother who seeks admittance after the Lodge has been opened, challenging latecomers or visiting Masons to verify their credentials and current good standing. Once eligibility is confirmed, the Tyler announces the brother to the Inner Guard, who relays the request to the Worshipful Master for permission to enter. The Tyler also assists with the preparation of candidates before they are admitted for ceremonial work.
Symbolic Meaning of the Tyler’s Station
Beyond the practical tasks of a doorkeeper, the Tyler’s station outside the Lodge door carries profound philosophical meaning. The Tyler represents the boundary between the “profane world,” considered disorderly and uninitiated, and the sacred, ordered space of the Lodge. This officer symbolizes the vigilance required to guard the secrets and integrity of the Craft, ensuring that the lessons and rituals remain exclusively for qualified members. The integrity of the Tyler’s role is a symbol for the personal discipline expected of every Mason. The function of setting a guard at the door is allegorically interpreted as the need for each brother to set a guard over their own thoughts, words, and actions, reflecting the internal commitment to self-improvement.
The Tyler’s Implements
The physical tool most associated with the Tyler’s office is the Tyler’s Sword, a ceremonial implement that symbolizes the officer’s authority and protective function. This sword is traditionally drawn and unsheathed while the Lodge is in session, signifying constant readiness to defend the meeting’s sanctity. Historically, the Tyler’s Sword was often depicted as having a wavy or fluted blade, sometimes called a “flaming sword.” This design is an allusion to the flaming sword mentioned in the Book of Genesis, which was placed at the Garden of Eden to prevent re-entry. The sword serves as a dramatic emblem of power, authority, and the defense of the Lodge’s ancient traditions, rather than being intended for actual defense.