What is the purpose of a token in Masonry?

The purpose of a token in Masonry is primarily to identify a Mason in the dark, which refers to situations where visibility is limited, such as during private ceremonies or rituals. This identification allows members to recognize one another and confirms the brotherhood and shared secrets among Masons. The token serves as a discreet way to communicate one's status within the lodge while maintaining the sanctity and privacy of Masonic rites.

The significance of the token is deeply rooted in the idea of mutual trust and confidentiality that is prized within the Masonic fraternity. It reinforces bonds of brotherhood, ensuring that members can count on each other, especially in settings designed to be secure and exclusive. The token's role as an identifier during darker circumstances highlights the importance of these principles in Masonic practice.

While other options touch on important aspects of Masonry, such as membership and values, they do not specifically capture the function of a token in relation to recognition within the context of Masonic traditions. Tokens are indeed emblematic of brotherhood, but their primary utility is as a means of identification in dark or solemn situations.