After greeting the Junior and Senior Wardens, where was the initiate supposed to go next?

In a typical Masonic ritual, after greeting the Junior and Senior Wardens, the initiate is directed to proceed to the West. This is significant as the West is traditionally associated with the setting sun, symbolizing reflection and the end of a day’s work. It represents a place where the initiate can gain wisdom and understand the teachings and values of the craft that will guide their journey.

The role of the Junior and Senior Wardens, located in the West and South respectively, is pivotal in guiding the candidate through the initiation process. The initiate's movement towards the West signifies an acknowledgment of the leadership and guidance provided by the Wardens before further progress is made in the lodge, thus reinforcing the importance of the hierarchy and structure within Masonic traditions.

The other directions do not align with the standard sequence of the initiation process, which firmly establishes the path to the West as a key element in the progression of the initiate.