03/01/2026
"FROM WHERE I SIT "
By Journalist Philipbert Semogai Browne
"WHY DID THE FREEMASONRY IN LIBERIA, REFUSED PRESIDENT GEORGE WEAH "THE SEAT IN THE EAST". THE END.
The current Grand Master of Freemasonry in Liberia, Anthony W. Deline sits in the East in the Grand Lodge, symbolizing leadership, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. In Masonic tradition, the East represents the source of light and knowledge, and the Grand Master, as the highest authority, guides the brethren on their Masonic journey.
The seat in the East is a significant position in a Masonic Subordinate Lodge, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment, knowledge, and new beginnings. It's typically reserved for the Worshipful Master, who guides the lodge members by sharing knowledge and upholding traditions. The East direction is associated with the rising sun, representing leadership, wisdom, and illumination
The Grand Master and the Worshipful Master, seated in the East, is responsible for conducting ceremonies, ensuring the lodge's smooth operation, and serving as a spiritual leader. This position is considered a high honor, requiring strong leadership and wisdom.
President George Manner Weah was refused the "SEAT IN THE EAST" primarily because the Masonic Order is an order of merit, and membership is typically granted to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character and achievements. President George Weah as Head of State distanced himself during his presidency from the Masonic Order in Liberia. He made no significant contributions to the Order and did not seek the welfare of his brothers.
Moreover, Pres. Weah leadership was marked by controversy, including accusations of corruption and failing to address poverty, which might have greatly impacted his eligibility for the "SEAT IN THE EAST". Another view is that In Liberia, the Masonic Order has a complex history, with membership previously dominated by Americo-Liberians and influential in the True Whig party. Given this context, it's possible that President Weah's background as a native decent and his actions for disassociating and distancing himself from Freemasonry in Liberia, might have been factors in his potential refusal.
FREEMASONRY CEREMONY AT FUNERAL HOME AND GRAVE:
Masonic funeral ceremonies are a tribute to the deceased brother, focusing on spiritual growth and comfort for the living. The Funeral Home Ceremony, Masons conduct a service with rituals, prayers, and symbols, emphasizing the brother's life and legacy. They often use aprons, symbols, and the square and compasses. While at the Grave Ceremony, Masons perform specific rituals, like the "raising of the acacia sprig" (a symbol of eternal life), and sprinkle corn, wine, and oil (representing nourishment, joy, and peace).
These ceremonies aim to, honor the deceased's memory, comfort the grieving family, reflect on life's transience and mortality and reaffirm bonds of brotherhood
THE "ACACIA LEAF" AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN MASONIC RITUALS AT FUNERAL HOME AND THE GRAVE:
The "ACACIA LEAF and SPRIG" are potent symbols in Freemasonry. THEY symbolizies Eternal Life. "ACACIA" represents the soul's immortality and eternal life, reminding Masons of their spiritual journey. Acacia trees thrive in harsh environments, symbolizing strength and endurance in adversity. In some traditions, acacia is associated with purity and innocence, reflecting the Mason's pursuit of knowledge and virtue."
