In the 16th century, a famous architect named Hiram Abif built a Temple in Scotland that sparked envy among three craftsmen. They kidnapped Hiram to force him to reveal the Temple's construction secrets. Hiram refused to divulge the secrets. Enraged, the craftsmen murdered him.
Eventually, Hiram's body was found and the masons founded a lodge to commemorate his memory. Parts of Masonic rituals are based on this legend. The motif of the murdered master builder has a strong connection to the symbolism of Freemasonry.
The story conveys the value of knowledge and the need to share it, as well as the dangers of withholding information. It also champions virtues like loyalty and truthfulness, and justice against criminals. These principles form the foundation of Freemasonry's moral values.
