Job's Daughters is an organization founded in 1920 for young women between the
ages of 10 and 20 who have Masonic heritage. It's based on the foundation of
high morals, love of God and country (and respect for its flag and laws), love
of family and friends, and respect for parents and guardians, and others
throughout the world. Members also learn & develop leadership skills, public
speaking, how to manage finances, and support a variety of charity and service
projects. "Jobies" also enjoy fellowship among each other in a safe
wholesome environment and participate in many "fun" projects and
activities (like dances, bowling, skating, "kidnap breakfasts,"
"mystery trips," "mystery dinners," and travel, just to name
a few).
Who can become a member of Job's Daughters?
You must be a girl between the ages of 10 and 20 years of age and a direct
descendant of a Master Mason, including: daughters, adopted daughters by law,
stepdaughters, granddaughters, step granddaughters, sisters, half-sisters,
stepsisters, sisters-in-law, nieces, grandnieces, or first or second cousins of
a Master Mason, or so related to his wife or widow, or who are daughters,
stepdaughters, granddaughters, or step-granddaughters of Majority Members of
Job's Daughters. The only other requirement is belief in a one God, regardless
of your own personal religious beliefs (members are encouraged to actively
worship in their own faith - although religious in nature, Job's and Masonry are
not substitutes for religion).
How do I become a member of Job's Daughters?
Contact a friend who's a member, or contact the Bethel Guardian or Masonic
temple in your area. They will get a petition to fill out and explain a little
more about the Order to you. A committee of 3 girls will visit you to get a
little more information from you and answer any additional questions you might
have at that time. The committee will report back to the Bethel, and you'll be
contacted on when your initiation will be.
What is the "initiation" like?
The initiation is a very beautiful ceremony where you'll learn more about Job's
Daughters and it's history. It is not embarrassing or frightful at all, and
there is no hazing or physical harassment. You'll not be asked to do anything
other than pay strict attention to the officers as they bestow upon you the
lessons of the Order, as illustrated in it's beautiful ritual and the life of
Job. Parents and guardians are welcome and encouraged to attend the initiation,
as well as all Bethel meetings. It's a time many girls fondly remember for the
rest of their lives!
Where does the name "Job's Daughters" come from?
The Order takes its name from the Book of Job, in the Bible, with particular
reference to the 42nd chapter 15th verse: "And in all the land were no
women found so fair as the Daughters of Job; and their Father gave them
inheritance among their brethren." Also, special emphasis is given to the
thought that: "To be fair is to do good" and "Virtue is a quality
which highly adorns woman." Why is it called "International,"
where all does Job's Daughters exist? The International Order of Job's Daughters
currently has 20,000 members in 5 countries, including: the United States,
Canada, the Philippines, Australia, and Brazil. There have been inquiries from
other countries recently and efforts are underway to institute Job's Daughters
jurisdictions in several other countries.
Why do Job's Daughters wear white robes?
The white robes worn by the officers of a Bethel are of the Grecian type worn by
women during the time of Job. Everyone wearing the white Grecian robe stresses
equality, symbolic of the important belief that we are all of equal importance
in life. Also, white in all ages has been deemed an emblem of purity and a
symbol of joy.
What does "IYOB FILIAE" on the Job's Daughters emblem mean?
"IYOB" is Greek, "FILIAE" is Latin, together they mean
"Daughters of Job."
Is Job's Daughters a religion?
Certainly not. Although Job's Daughters is religious in nature, it is not a
religion (or cult) nor is it a substitute for religion. The only requirement for
membership related to religion is the belief in a single Supreme Being (i.e.,
monotheism). This is the same for almost all Masonic related bodies. Members are
encourage to worship and practice the faith of their own choosing (i.e., attend
their own churches, synagogues, etc., regularly). Job's Daughters are members of
many faiths and religions (e.g., Baptist, Catholic, Christian Scientist, Church
of Christ, Jewish, Lutheran, Methodist, Mormon, etc.), brought together for
noble and good causes - to improve oneself and to be serviceable to all mankind
(many charities and causes are directly supported).
IOJD Bethel 42 Virginia Beach VA
What is Job's Daughters?
