Welcome to the official page for the Eureka Challenge, the Masonic knowledge proficiency competition sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Illinois A.F. & A.M. Here you’ll find information about this exciting game which provides an opportunity for long-time Masons to apply their knowledge of the Craft while also giving newer members the chance to learn more about our Fraternity. Developed in 2002-2003, the Eureka Challenge is an educational forum for promoting and recognizing Masonic knowledge that can be used to convey almost any relevant subject matter of interest to Blue Lodge members.
The name of the Eureka Challenge alludes to the account of Pythagoras in our Masonic traditions, which reads:
"The forty-seventh problem of Euclid was an invention of our ancient friend and brother, the great Pythagoras, who, in his travels through Asia, Africa and Europe, was initiated into several orders of priesthood, and is said to have been raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason. This wise philosopher enriched his mind abundantly in a general knowledge of things, more especially in geometry, or Masonry. On this subject he drew out many problems and theorems; and among the most distinguished he erected this, which, in the joy of his heart, he exclaimed Eureka! signifying, in the Grecian language, I have found it; and upon the discovery of which he is said to have sacrificed a hecatomb. It teaches Masons to be general lovers of the arts and sciences."