Masonic Symbols Explained: A Complete Glossary of Meanings
From grand historic buildings to the lapel pins worn by community leaders, Masonic symbols are woven into the very fabric of our society. They spark curiosity and are often shrouded in an aura of mystery. For the uninitiated, emblems like the Square and Compasses or the All-Seeing Eye can seem cryptic, leading to centuries of speculation and misunderstanding.
Yet, for a Freemason, these are not signs of a secret society but tools of a ‘peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols’. This rich visual language forms the core of Masonic education, a complete system of morality veiled in allegory. The sheer number of freemasonry symbols can seem daunting, but each one is a key to unlocking a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe.
This glossary aims to demystify some of the most prominent symbols in Freemasonry. By exploring their meanings, we can begin to appreciate the profound philosophical and moral lessons they are intended to teach. It is a journey from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge, all guided by the timeless wisdom embedded in these ancient emblems.
What is the Purpose of Masonic Symbolism?
The primary purpose of Masonic symbolism is to teach complex philosophical and moral truths in a simple, universal language. Instead of long, dry lectures, Freemasonry uses allegorical stories and visual emblems to convey its core principles. This method engages the mind on a deeper level, encouraging personal reflection and interpretation.
Each symbol is a waypoint on a Mason’s journey of self-improvement. It acts as a constant reminder of his duties to his creator, his neighbors, and himself. The symbolism is designed to be layered, revealing deeper meanings as a Mason progresses through the degrees of the Craft and dedicates more time to study and contemplation.
Are Masonic Symbols Secret?
This is a common misconception. The symbols themselves are not secret. The Square and Compasses is one of the most recognized logos in the world. You can find books, websites, and documentaries that openly display and discuss these emblems. They are hidden in plain sight for all to see.
What is reserved for members is the specific context and allegorical story in which these symbols are presented during Masonic degree rituals. The true ‘secret’ of Masonry is not the symbol itself, but the personal journey of discovery and the unique experience of learning its meaning within the fellowship and traditions of the Lodge.
What Are the Three Great Lights of Freemasonry?
At the heart of every Masonic Lodge are the Three Great Lights. They are considered the indispensable foundation of Masonry and are always present when a Lodge is open and at work. These are the Volume of the Sacred Law, the Square, and the Compasses.
The Volume of the Sacred Law?
This is the holy book appropriate to the faith of the Masons in a particular Lodge. In most Lodges in the English-speaking world, this is the Holy Bible. In other parts of the world, it might be the Quran, the Torah, the Vedas, or another sacred text. Its presence signifies that a Mason’s work should be guided by faith and a belief in a higher power.
The Volume of the Sacred Law is the ultimate guide for a Mason’s spiritual and moral path. It is seen as the unerring standard of truth and justice, reminding every Brother to regulate his life and actions by its divine precepts. It is the source of ‘light’ regarding one’s duty to God.
The Square?
The Square is an emblem of morality, virtue, and truthfulness. In operative masonry, it is a tool used to test the accuracy of right angles and to ensure that a stone is perfectly ‘square’. Speculatively, it teaches Masons to ‘square their actions’ by the ‘square of virtue’ with all mankind.
It is a constant reminder to be honest and fair in all dealings, to act with integrity, and to align one’s conduct with the principles of the Craft. The Square represents the earthly, material, and moral duties of a man. It is the source of ‘light’ concerning one’s duty to his neighbors and himself.
The Compasses?
The Compasses are a symbol of self-restraint and the importance of circumscribing one’s passions and desires. Just as the tool is used to draw circles, it teaches a Mason to draw a boundary around his inclinations, keeping them within due bounds. It represents the spiritual, intellectual, and ethereal nature of man.
By keeping his actions within the circle defined by the Compasses, a Mason can avoid excess and focus his energies on his duties and self-improvement. The Compasses are the source of ‘light’ regarding one’s duty to oneself, particularly in mastering one’s own nature.
What Do the Working Tools Represent?
Freemasonry draws its primary symbolism from the tools of stonemasons. Each tool of the ancient operative craft has been given a speculative, moral meaning that applies to the modern Mason’s quest for self-development. These are introduced to a candidate as he progresses through the degrees.
The 24-Inch Gauge and Common Gavel?
These are the first working tools presented to an Entered Apprentice Mason. The 24-inch gauge, a simple ruler, represents the 24 hours of the day. It teaches a Mason to partition his time wisely: a part for serving God and helping a distressed brother, a part for his usual vocations, and a part for refreshment and sleep.
The Common Gavel is an instrument of force used to break off the rough corners of stones. Symbolically, it represents the force of conscience and the need to divest our hearts and minds of the vices and superfluities of life. It is the tool for chipping away at our own imperfections to become a better person.
The Level and the Plumb?
Presented in the Fellowcraft or second degree, these tools teach important lessons about equality and integrity. The Level is an instrument used to prove horizontal surfaces. Symbolically, it reminds Masons that they are all traveling on the same ‘level’ of time, headed towards the same ultimate destination, and that all men are equal before God.
The Plumb is a tool for proving vertical lines. It is an emblem of rectitude and uprightness. It teaches a Mason to walk uprightly in his several stations before God and man, never deviating from the ‘plumb-line’ of integrity and moral uprightness. For more on these foundational concepts, you can find many resources where masonic symbols explained-1 are detailed for new seekers.
The Trowel?
The Trowel is the principal working tool of a Master Mason. Operatively, it is used to spread the cement that binds stones together into a single, solid structure. Speculatively, its purpose is far more noble: it is used to spread the ‘cement of Brotherly Love and Affection’.
This tool, above all others, represents the core tenets of the fraternity, a concept further explored in many guides where masonic symbols explained are the primary focus. It teaches Masons to unite their community, to heal discord, and to build a stronger, more harmonious society through kindness, compassion, and mutual support.
The Gavel and Chisel?
Often considered together, the Gavel and Chisel represent the combined forces of education and discipline in shaping human character. The Chisel represents the sharp and refining influence of education, which makes the mind receptive to intellectual and moral truths.
The Gavel, in this context, symbolizes the force of will and perseverance required to apply those lessons. It is the power that drives the Chisel to chip away at the ‘Rough Ashlar’ which is a symbol for an uneducated man. The goal is to transform the Rough Ashlar into a ‘Perfect Ashlar’, or a man who has perfected himself through Masonic labor. The relationship between these tools is one of many masonic symbols explained-8 in Masonic education.
What Are the Key Symbols Inside a Masonic Lodge?
A Masonic Lodge room, often called the ‘Temple’, is rich with symbolism. The entire layout and its furnishings are designed to represent the universe and to reinforce the lessons of the Craft.
The Mosaic Pavement?
Most Lodge rooms feature a floor with a black and white checkerboard pattern known as the Mosaic Pavement. This represents the dualistic nature of human life on Earth, checkered with good and evil, joy and sorrow, light and darkness. It reminds a Mason to navigate the complexities of life with balance and fortitude.
The Two Great Pillars?
Standing at the entrance to the Lodge room are two pillars, typically named Boaz and Jachin. They are representations of the two bronze pillars that stood at the porch of King Solomon’s Temple. Boaz is said to mean ‘in strength’ and Jachin to mean ‘He will establish’.
Together, they symbolize the harmony of strength and establishment, power and stability. They remind Masons that any great undertaking, whether building a temple or building one’s character, requires both the strength to begin and the stability to endure to its completion.
The All-Seeing Eye?
Perhaps one of the most famous and misunderstood symbols, the All-Seeing Eye, or Eye of Providence, represents the constant, watchful care of the Supreme Being. It is a reminder that a Mason’s thoughts, words, and actions are always observed by God, and that he can never truly escape the consequences of his conduct.
This symbol is not exclusively Masonic and its history predates the fraternity, appearing in many cultures and religions as a symbol of divine omniscience. Its presence in the Lodge reinforces the theme of accountability and divine justice. The history of such emblems is fascinating, as many guides on 12 masonic symbols explained will attest, showing their deep roots in human spirituality.
How Do Masons Learn These Meanings?
The meanings of Masonic symbols are taught through ritual, lectures, and personal study. The process is gradual, allowing a Mason to absorb the lessons at his own pace. The allegorical plays of the degree ceremonies introduce the symbols in a memorable and impactful way.
After the rituals, senior members of the Lodge often provide lectures or lead study groups to explore the symbolism in greater depth. This symbolic language creates a shared understanding among Brothers, where a simple image can convey complex moral truths. The layers of freemason symbols and meanings are revealed progressively, encouraging a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
Why Are These Symbols So Misunderstood?
The air of privacy surrounding Masonic rituals, combined with the abstract nature of symbolism, has unfortunately led to many misinterpretations. Without the context provided within the Lodge, outsiders may assign their own, often negative, meanings to the emblems.
Conspiracy theories and popular fiction have further distorted public perception. However, the reality is far less sensational. The symbols are simply teaching aids for a system of personal development. Often, the best way to understand the Craft is to hear it from its members, as seen in this candid freemason interview reddit discussion. Open dialogue helps to dispel myths and present the true, positive nature of Masonic teachings.
What Other Important Symbols Should One Know?
Beyond the core emblems, Freemasonry is filled with a host of other symbols, each carrying its own unique lesson.
The Point Within a Circle?
This symbol features a point in the center of a circle, which is itself bounded by two parallel vertical lines. The point represents the individual Mason. The circle represents the boundary line of his conduct, beyond which he should not stray.
The two parallel lines represent St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, two patron saints of Freemasonry. They symbolize the periods of the summer and winter solstices, reminding a Mason to dedicate his life to a path of light and knowledge throughout the year.
The Anchor and the Ark?
These are emblems of a well-grounded hope and a well-spent life. The Ark, a symbol of the journey over the turbulent seas of life, represents a life lived according to divine will. The Anchor represents the hope that keeps us steadfast and secure during life’s challenges.
Together, they symbolize that a firm belief and hope in a higher power can allow a man to weather any storm and find safe harbor at the end of his journey. It is a symbol of faith and security.
The Sprig of Acacia?
The acacia is an evergreen plant that was considered sacred in many ancient cultures. In Masonic lore, a sprig of acacia was used to mark the temporary resting place of a revered master. Because of its evergreen nature, it has become the primary Masonic symbol for the immortality of the soul.
It teaches Masons that while the physical body may perish, the soul survives. This belief in a future life gives meaning to our moral labors in this one, assuring us that our efforts to build a spiritual temple are not in vain.
The Blazing Star?
The Blazing Star is another complex symbol with multiple interpretations. For some, it represents Divine Providence, the guiding light from the Creator that illuminates our path. For others, it is a symbol of the Sun, which enlightens the Earth and gives life and vitality to all beings.
In some Masonic contexts, it also represents the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the wise men to the infant Jesus. In all interpretations, it is a symbol of a guiding light that leads a Mason from darkness to intellectual and spiritual enlightenment.
The Beehive?
The Beehive is an emblem of industry and cooperation. It recommends the practice of these virtues to all created beings. It teaches Masons that they should work together diligently and harmoniously for the common good, just as bees work together to support their hive.
It also reminds a Mason that he has a duty to be a productive member of society, avoiding idleness and contributing his share to the welfare of his community and mankind. It is a powerful symbol of a well-ordered and productive life.
What is the Ultimate Goal of Masonic Symbolism?
The ultimate goal of Masonic symbolism is transformation. It is not about memorizing meanings for their own sake. It is about internalizing the lessons of each symbol so that they become a part of a man’s character.
The constant exposure to these emblems is meant to inspire a man to become a ‘Perfect Ashlar’. This is a stone that is smooth, square, and fit for use in building the temple. Symbolically, it is a man who has smoothed the rough edges of his nature, squared his actions by virtue, and made himself a better, more useful member of the human family.
Ultimately, the study of freemason symbols meaning is a lifelong journey. It is a path of self-discovery, moral growth, and spiritual enlightenment, all communicated through a beautiful and timeless language of symbols that connects Masons across the world and through the centuries.
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 exclusively used by Freemasons?
Many symbols prominently featured in Freemasonry are not exclusive to the fraternity and can be found in various other cultures, religions, and philosophical systems. Freemasonry adopted and re-contextualized symbols from sources like ancient Egyptian and Greek traditions, sacred geometry, and stonemason guilds. For instance, the All-Seeing Eye has a long history as a symbol of divine providence, existing long before its use in Masonic lodges.
What makes these symbols uniquely Masonic is their specific interpretation and arrangement within the fraternity’s allegorical and moral framework. The combination of symbols, like the Square and Compasses with the letter G, creates a distinct meaning tied to the lessons taught within Masonic degrees. Therefore, while the individual emblems may appear in public or other traditions, their full significance is revealed through the context of Masonic ritual and teachings.
How do the meanings of Masonic symbols change as a Mason progresses through the degrees?
Masonic symbolism is designed to be revealed progressively, with its meanings unfolding as a member advances through the degrees. In the initial "Blue Lodge" degrees, symbols are introduced with foundational lessons focused on morality, ethics, and self-improvement. These early interpretations provide a solid moral compass for a new Mason’s journey.
As a Mason moves to higher degrees in appendant bodies, he revisits these same symbols, but they are imbued with deeper philosophical, historical, and esoteric significance. The symbol itself remains the same, but its application and the lessons drawn from it become more complex and profound. This method of progressive revelation ensures that the member’s understanding of Masonic principles matures along with his personal development within the craft.
Why is there so much mystery surrounding the meaning of Masonic symbols?
The perceived mystery surrounding Masonic symbols stems from the fraternity’s traditional method of teaching through allegory and ritual. Rather than providing simple, direct definitions, Freemasonry encourages its members to engage in personal reflection to uncover the deeper moral and philosophical truths that the symbols represent. This introspective journey is a core component of the Masonic experience, making the "secrets" a matter of personal discovery rather than hidden information.
This approach ensures that the lessons tied to each symbol are properly contextualized and revealed in a structured manner. The purpose of this discretion is not to conceal information from the public, but to preserve the integrity and impact of the allegorical lessons for members. The mystery is intended to provoke curiosity and contemplation, encouraging each Mason to find his own personal meaning within these ancient emblems.
