What is the purpose of a token in Masonry?

• A. A token is a friendly grip used to recognize a brother in dark or light.
• B. A token is a ritual oath.
• C. A token is a written passkey.
• D. A token is the ground-floor symbol.

Answer: (A)

A token is a physical, nonverbal signal used to recognize a fellow Mason. It’s a specific friendly grip that a Mason can use to acknowledge another Mason when sight isn’t reliable—whether in dim light or when you’re not looking directly at each other. This grip serves as a discreet way to confirm membership and brotherhood without speaking or revealing ritual details. It isn’t an oath, nor a written passkey, nor a visible symbol; it’s a tactile recognition tool that reinforces trust and fellowship among members.