Masonic Symbols Explained: A Complete Glossary of Meanings
For centuries, the symbols of Freemasonry have captured the public imagination. Veiled in allegory and rich with historical significance, these emblems are often misunderstood, seen as cryptic codes of a secret society. The reality, however, is far more profound and enlightening. Masonic symbolism is a beautiful, intricate language designed to teach moral and ethical lessons, guiding a member on a journey of personal growth and self-discovery.
These are not signs of a clandestine group plotting world events but are instead tools for building a better self. Each symbol serves as a visual reminder of the core tenets of the Craft: integrity, equality, truth, and brotherly love. They are derived from the tools of ancient stonemasons, the geometry of the natural world, and sacred architecture, all woven together into a system of morality.
Understanding these emblems is the key to unlocking the philosophical heart of the fraternity. This glossary will serve as your guide, demystifying the most prominent Freemasonry symbols and revealing the timeless wisdom they contain. We will explore their origins, their meanings, and how they contribute to a Mason’s path from a rough stone to a perfected ashlar, fit for the spiritual temple.
What Are the Most Common Masonic Symbols?
Freemasonry utilizes a core set of symbols that are universally recognized within the Craft. These foundational emblems are introduced early in a Mason’s journey and are central to the Fraternity’s identity and teachings. They represent the fundamental principles that every Mason is expected to live by.
What is the Meaning of the Square and Compasses?
Perhaps the most recognized symbol of Freemasonry is the Square and Compasses. This emblem is a visual shorthand for the entire fraternity. Separately, each tool has a distinct meaning, but together, they form a powerful lesson in morality and self-governance.
The Square is an instrument used by stonemasons to ensure that stones are cut to perfect right angles. Symbolically, it represents morality, truthfulness, and honesty. It is a constant reminder for a Mason to ‘square’ his actions by the ‘square of virtue’ with all mankind. It is the tool for testing the perfection of the work, and in speculative Masonry, it tests one’s character.
The Compasses are used to draw circles, defining boundaries and proportions. In Masonry, this symbolizes the importance of circumscribing one’s desires and keeping passions within due bounds. It is about self-restraint, discipline, and understanding one’s proper limits in relation to others and to the divine. The Compasses teach a Mason to walk a path of moderation and prudence.
When combined, the Square and Compasses represent the balance between the material and the spiritual, the earthly and the divine. A Mason learns to square his actions while circumscribing his passions, achieving a harmonious and well-regulated life.
Why is the Letter ‘G’ So Important?
Often found at the center of the Square and Compasses emblem, the letter ‘G’ holds a dual significance in Masonic teachings. Its meaning is one of the first and most important lessons a Mason learns, representing two foundational concepts that are intertwined.
The primary meaning of the letter ‘G’ is God, or more inclusively, the Great Architect of the Universe. Freemasonry is not a religion, but its members must profess a belief in a Supreme Being. The letter ‘G’ serves as a universal symbol for that divine power, reminding a Mason that all his actions are done in the presence of the Creator.
The second meaning is Geometry. Ancient stonemasons relied on the principles of geometry to construct magnificent cathedrals and temples. In speculative Masonry, geometry is seen as the noblest of sciences, a pathway to understanding the divine order of the universe. It symbolizes the logical, rational, and intellectual pursuits that lead to greater enlightenment. The letter ‘G’ thus reminds a Mason to apply the principles of order and reason to his own life, building his character with the same precision as a master builder.
What Do the Two Pillars Represent?
Prominently featured in Masonic lodge rooms and art are two large pillars, often named Boaz and Jachin. These are direct references to the two bronze pillars that stood at the porch of King Solomon’s Temple, as described in the Old Testament. Their presence in Masonry is deeply symbolic.
Boaz, the pillar on the left, is typically translated to mean ‘in strength’. Jachin, the pillar on the right, is translated as ‘to establish’. Together, their names can be interpreted as ‘in strength, He shall establish’, a reference to the divine promise to establish the house of David. For a Mason, they represent the concepts of strength and stability.
These pillars also symbolize the point of entry into the sanctuary of Masonic knowledge, the transition from the profane outer world to the sacred inner space of the lodge. They embody the principle of duality that is prevalent in many philosophical systems: light and dark, active and passive, day and night. A Mason must learn to understand and balance these opposing forces within himself to achieve true wisdom. The deeper explanation of these symbols helps to build a foundation for a Mason’s journey.
What is the Significance of the All-Seeing Eye?
The All-Seeing Eye, often depicted within a triangle or pyramid, is one of the most misunderstood Masonic symbols. Popular culture has incorrectly associated it with sinister surveillance, but its true meaning is entirely benevolent and spiritual.
Known within the Craft as the Eye of Providence, it represents the constant, watchful care of the Great Architect of the Universe. It is a symbol of divine omniscience, reminding a Mason that his thoughts, words, and actions are always observed by a higher power, even when no human eye can see. This is not a threat but a source of comfort and a call to accountability.
The symbol encourages a Mason to live a life of integrity, knowing that he is never truly alone and that his character is being judged by a divine standard. The triangle surrounding the eye, called the Delta, is a symbol of the deity and perfection. Learning to appreciate how these Masonic symbols explained can prevent misinterpretation and reveal their positive moral lessons.
What Are the Symbolic Working Tools of a Mason?
Freemasonry’s heritage is rooted in the guilds of operative stonemasons. While modern Freemasons are ‘speculative’ and do not build physical structures, they use the tools of their operative predecessors as powerful symbols for moral and spiritual development. These tools are presented to a candidate as he progresses through the degrees.
What are the Tools of an Entered Apprentice?
The Entered Apprentice is the first degree of Freemasonry, representing the youth of a man’s life. The tools presented at this stage are focused on the foundational work of shaping one’s character.
The first tool is the Twenty-Four-Inch Gauge. For an operative mason, it was a simple ruler for measuring work. For a speculative Mason, it is a symbol for the division of time. It reminds him to allocate the twenty-four hours of the day to serving God and a distressed worthy brother, his usual vocations, and for rest and refreshment. It is a lesson in time management and priorities.
The second is the Common Gavel. This was used to break off the rough corners of stones. Symbolically, it represents the force of conscience, used to divest the heart and mind of all the vices and superfluities of life. It is the tool of purification, helping to chip away at ego, prejudice, and bad habits, thereby fitting oneself as a living stone for the spiritual temple.
The third tool is the Chisel. The Chisel works in concert with the Gavel and the mind of the craftsman to shape the stone. It represents the advantages of education and discipline. It shows how the raw potential of a person, the rough stone, can be shaped into something beautiful and useful through knowledge and perseverance.
What are the Tools of a Fellowcraft?
The Fellowcraft degree is the second degree, symbolizing a man’s middle age or period of active labor. The tools of this degree are related to testing and perfecting the work initiated in the first degree, focusing on intellectual and societal virtues.
The Plumb is a tool used to ensure a wall is built vertically true. Symbolically, it represents rectitude of conduct and the importance of living an upright life before God and man. It is a constant reminder to be just and upright in all dealings.
The Level is used to ensure a surface is perfectly horizontal. For a speculative Mason, it is a powerful symbol of equality. It teaches that all men are created equal and meet on the same level in the lodge, regardless of their station in life. It reminds a Mason of his duty to treat every person with fairness and respect.
Finally, the Square is reintroduced to the Fellowcraft. Here, it reinforces the lessons of morality and virtue, serving as the ultimate test of the work. The combination of these tools teaches a Mason to build his character with uprightness and equality, tested by the square of virtue. The meaning behind Masonic signs and symbols is layered, with each degree adding new depth and understanding.
What are the Tools of a Master Mason?
The Master Mason degree is the third and final degree of basic ‘Blue Lodge’ Masonry. It represents the wisdom of age and deals with the profound themes of mortality, legacy, and resurrection. The tools of this degree are those of a master builder.
All the tools of the preceding degrees are entrusted to the Master Mason, but the Trowel is the special tool of this degree. The Trowel is used by operative masons to spread the cement that binds stones together into a single, solid structure. Symbolically, it represents Brotherly Love and Affection, the spiritual ‘cement’ that unites the fraternity into a sacred and harmonious band. It is the tool for building community and spreading kindness.
Other tools like the Skirret, Pencil, and Compasses are also explained, representing the spiritual and moral plans laid out by the Great Architect, the recording of those plans, and the execution of a life lived within those divine boundaries. Grasping the meanings of Freemasonry symbols is an ongoing process of reflection.
What Are Some Other Important Masonic Symbols?
Beyond the most common emblems and the working tools, the symbolic language of Freemasonry is vast and rich. Many other symbols appear in lodge rooms, on Masonic documents, and in the lectures of the degrees, each carrying its own unique lesson.
What Does the Masonic Apron Symbolize?
The Masonic apron is arguably the most important piece of regalia a Mason wears. It is the first gift a Mason receives and is considered the ‘badge of a Mason’. Its symbolism is rooted in both purity and the history of the Craft.
Traditionally made of white lambskin, the apron symbolizes innocence and purity of heart. The lamb has been a symbol of innocence in many cultures and religions for millennia. By wearing the lambskin apron, a Mason is reminded to live his life with a pure and blameless conduct. This is why it is said that a Mason’s apron is ‘more ancient than the Golden Fleece or Roman Eagle, and more honorable than the Star and Garter’.
It is also a direct link to the operative stonemasons who wore heavy leather aprons to protect themselves from rough stones and sharp tools. For the speculative Mason, it is a badge of honor, a symbol of his commitment to the noble work of building his character. You can find many common Masonic symbols and their meanings detailed in various resources that highlight the apron’s significance.
What is the Meaning of the Blazing Star?
The Blazing Star is another symbol that often appears in the lodge room, usually suspended from the ceiling. Its meaning is multifaceted, representing several important concepts that guide a Mason on his path.
First, the Blazing Star is a symbol of divine providence, representing the ever-present guidance of the Great Architect. It is like the star that guides a traveler in the darkness, a beacon of truth and wisdom. It encourages a Mason to look for light and inspiration from a higher source.
Secondly, it represents the sun, which illuminates the earth and gives light and life to all beings. In this sense, it is a symbol of enlightenment, knowledge, and the intellectual faculty that distinguishes man. It is often seen in conjunction with the letter ‘G’, reinforcing the idea that God and Geometry, or divine wisdom and human reason, are the sources of all light. By exploring Masonic symbols, one can see the interconnectedness of these powerful emblems.
What is the Symbolism of the Rough and Perfect Ashlars?
The Rough and Perfect Ashlars are two stones typically found in a lodge room. They are powerful and simple metaphors for the journey of self-improvement that is at the core of Freemasonry.
The Rough Ashlar is a stone taken directly from the quarry, in its natural, unworked state. It represents man in his ignorant, uncultivated condition. It is full of potential but requires work, education, and discipline to become something useful and beautiful.
The Perfect Ashlar, by contrast, is a stone that has been squared and smoothed by the hands of the craftsman. It is ready to be used in the construction of the temple. This stone represents a man who, through the teachings of Freemasonry and his own diligent efforts, has improved his character, educated his mind, and learned to live a virtuous life. The transformation from the Rough to the Perfect Ashlar is the symbolic goal of every Mason.
Why is the Beehive a Masonic Symbol?
While perhaps less common today, the beehive was a very important symbol in early Masonic lodges. It is a simple yet profound emblem of industry, cooperation, and social duty. A beehive is a model of a perfectly organized and productive society.
Each bee has a role and works tirelessly not for itself, but for the good of the entire hive. The beehive teaches a Mason that he too has a duty to be productive and industrious in his personal and professional life. It reminds him that he is part of a larger community, both within the lodge and in the world at large, and that he should contribute to the welfare of others.
It is a symbol against idleness and a call to cooperative labor. Just as bees work together to build their hive and produce honey, Masons are taught to work together to build a better society. This sense of community is a cornerstone of any Masonic association.
What is the Anchor and Ark?
The Anchor and Ark are symbols that are often presented together and are particularly associated with the Master Mason degree. They represent the final stages of a man’s life and the hope for a peaceful end.
The Anchor is a classic symbol of hope and steadfastness. It represents a well-grounded hope that keeps the soul steady during the tempests and trials of life. It gives a Mason the stability to remain firm in his principles and faith, no matter the challenges he faces.
The Ark is a symbol of refuge and safety. In the biblical story, the ark saved Noah and his family from the flood. In Masonry, it symbolizes the belief that a life well-lived according to moral and divine principles will lead to a peaceful harbor in the end. Together, the Anchor and Ark represent a ‘well-grounded hope and a well-spent life’, the ultimate reward for a faithful Mason.
The world of Masonic symbolism is a journey, not a destination. It is a language of virtue, a blueprint for character, and a guide to a more meaningful existence. These emblems are not secrets to be hoarded, but lessons to be lived. They connect modern men to an ancient tradition of wisdom, reminding them that the noblest work is the work they do upon themselves.
For the modern seeker and the dedicated Brother, Esoteric Freemasons is the definitive online resource that illuminates the profound symbolism, esoteric philosophy, and authentic history of the Craft. We go beyond the surface to reveal the true light of Masonic knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Masonic symbols considered secret?
While Freemasonry is often perceived as a secret society, its symbols are not secret in the way many assume. The images themselves, such as the Square and Compasses or the All-Seeing Eye, are widely visible in public architecture and historical documents. The "secret" lies not in the symbol itself, but in the specific allegorical meanings and moral lessons revealed to a Mason as he progresses through the degrees.
This method of teaching ensures that the lessons are understood within their proper context, rather than being misinterpreted by those unfamiliar with Masonic philosophy. The true meaning is an experiential discovery, a personal journey of understanding how to apply these timeless moral virtues to one’s own life. It is this personal application, revealed through ritual and reflection, that remains private to the members.
Why is symbolism so central to Freemasonry’s teachings?
Symbolism serves as the primary language of Freemasonry, allowing complex philosophical and moral ideas to be conveyed in a universal and memorable way. These allegorical tools transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, providing a common framework for Masons worldwide. By using tangible symbols to represent abstract concepts like truth, morality, and mortality, the fraternity’s teachings become more impactful and easier to contemplate.
This method encourages a deeper form of learning than simple instruction would allow. Instead of being told what to think, a Mason is presented with a symbol and encouraged to reflect on its various layers of meaning. This process fosters intellectual curiosity and personal insight, making the journey of self-improvement a highly individual and profound experience.
Can a single Masonic symbol have multiple meanings?
Yes, and this multi-layered nature is a fundamental aspect of Masonic education. While a symbol will have a primary, established meaning explained within lodge rituals, it is also intended to be a subject for ongoing personal contemplation. As a Mason advances in his journey and gains more life experience, his understanding of a symbol can evolve and deepen.
For example, the rough ashlar (uncut stone) initially represents a new Mason’s unrefined character, while the perfect ashlar (smooth stone) represents the state of perfection he strives for. Over time, a Mason might also see these stones as symbols for a chaotic problem and its elegant solution, or an unformed idea versus a fully realized project. This encouragement of personal interpretation makes the lessons of Freemasonry perpetually relevant to a member’s life.
