Symbol of purity and innocence
White gloves represent clean hands and pure intentions. Symbolically, a Mason should act honorably and ethically in all dealings.
2. Equality among members
When everyone wears the same simple white gloves, social status disappears—rich or poor, all members are equal within the lodge.
3. Historical tradition
In medieval stonemasonry, gloves protected craftsmen’s hands. Freemasonry preserved the custom as a link to its operative (working mason) origins, even though modern Freemasonry is symbolic rather than manual.
4. Respect and decorum
Gloves are part of formal lodge attire, reinforcing the solemn and respectful nature of Masonic ceremonies.