Masonic Symbols Explained: A Complete Glossary of Meanings
For centuries, Freemasonry has captivated the imagination of the public. Its blend of ancient history, philosophical teachings, and private character has made it a subject of endless fascination and speculation. At the heart of this enduring intrigue lies a rich and complex system of symbolism, a visual language that communicates the core tenets of the Craft to its members.
These symbols are not meant to be dark secrets, but rather profound teaching tools. They are allegories designed to impart lessons in morality, ethics, and self-improvement. For those outside the fraternity, understanding this symbolic language offers a unique window into the Masonic worldview. Exploring the Masonic symbols explained: a complete glossary of meanings is the first step on a journey to comprehend a system that has guided men for generations.
Each emblem, from the simple stonemason’s tool to the grand architectural motif, is layered with meaning. They serve as daily reminders for a Mason to live a virtuous life, to be a better person, and to contribute positively to society. This symbolic vocabulary is what makes Freemasonry a ‘peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols’.
Why Does Freemasonry Use Symbols?
To understand the use of symbols in Freemasonry, one must look to its origins. The fraternity traces its lineage to the operative stonemason guilds of the Middle Ages. These were the men who built the magnificent cathedrals and castles of Europe, masters of architecture and geometry. Their working tools were essential for their craft, each with a specific and practical function.
As Freemasonry evolved from an operative craft of literal builders to a speculative one of philosophical builders, these tools were not discarded. Instead, they were adopted and given allegorical significance. The tools that once shaped rough stones into perfect blocks for a building were now used to shape the rough character of a man into a more perfected moral and spiritual being.
This symbolic method of teaching was both practical and profound. It created a universal language that could transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. A Mason from any country could walk into a lodge anywhere in the world and understand the moral lessons being taught simply by recognizing the symbols displayed. It is a system designed to encourage contemplation and personal interpretation, allowing each member to find his own meaning within the shared framework.
What Is the Most Recognizable Masonic Symbol?
The most universally known emblem of Freemasonry is undoubtedly the Square and Compasses, often depicted with the letter ‘G’ at its center. This single image encapsulates the core principles of the Craft and is a constant visual reminder of a Mason’s obligations to himself, his fellow man, and his faith.
The Square and Compasses?
These two tools, one for creating right angles and the other for drawing circles, are fundamental instruments in architecture and geometry. In speculative Masonry, their meanings are elevated to a philosophical plane. The Square is a symbol of morality, truthfulness, and honesty. It reminds a Mason to ‘square his actions’ with the principles of virtue and to deal fairly with all people.
It represents the earthly and the material. It is a tool for testing the accuracy of stones, ensuring they will fit perfectly into a structure. In the same way, a Mason is taught to use the Square to test the morality of his own conduct. It is a guide for living a life that is upright and true.
The Compasses, on the other hand, represent the spiritual, intellectual, and ethereal aspects of a man’s nature. They are used to draw circles, which symbolize the boundary line between good and evil. A Mason is taught to use the Compasses to ‘circumscribe his desires and keep his passions within due bounds’. It is a tool of self-restraint and a reminder to control one’s own ego and base instincts.
When combined, the Square and Compasses represent the balance between the material and the spiritual, the earthly and the divine. They symbolize the importance of finding equilibrium in life, guided by both moral rectitude and self-control. The specific arrangement of the two tools can also signify a Mason’s degree or level of understanding within the Craft.
What Does the Letter ‘G’ Stand For?
The letter ‘G’ suspended in the center of the Square and Compasses holds a dual significance, representing two great pillars of Masonic thought. For many, its primary meaning is God, or more specifically, the Great Architect of the Universe. This non-denominational term allows men of different faiths to meet in harmony, all acknowledging a Supreme Being.
The ‘G’ serves as a constant reminder that all actions are done in the presence of the divine. It is the central point of focus, reinforcing the spiritual foundation upon which the entire Masonic structure is built. It speaks to a Mason’s duty to his Creator and the reverence he should hold for the grand design of existence.
The second, and equally important, meaning of the ‘G’ is Geometry. In the ancient world, geometry was considered the noblest of sciences, the basis of all measurement and discovery. It was through geometry that the great cathedrals were designed and the cosmos was understood. For Masons, it symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge and the application of reason and logic to understand the world.
Geometry represents the intellectual path of a Mason. It encourages a lifelong journey of learning and discovery, not just in science and mathematics, but in philosophy, ethics, and self-awareness. The ‘G’ therefore represents both faith and reason, two forces that, when balanced, lead to a well-rounded and enlightened life.
What Are Some Other Core Masonic Symbols?
Beyond the Square and Compasses, Freemasonry is replete with a vast array of symbols, each offering its own unique lesson. These emblems are often displayed within the lodge room and on Masonic tracing boards, serving as visual aids for the fraternity’s allegorical teachings. Understanding the broader masonry symbol meaning provides deeper insight into the Craft’s philosophy.
The All-Seeing Eye?
Often a source of public misunderstanding, the All-Seeing Eye, or the Eye of Providence, is a simple yet powerful Masonic symbol. It is not an emblem of sinister surveillance but a representation of the constant watchfulness of the Great Architect of the Universe. It symbolizes the divine omnipresence, reminding a Mason that his thoughts and actions are always observed by his Creator.
This symbol serves as a powerful metaphor for conscience. It encourages a Mason to act with integrity and virtue, not because others are watching, but because he is accountable to a higher power and to his own moral compass. The Eye of Providence is a symbol of truth, clarity, and the inescapable reality that all will be revealed in the end. A thorough exploration of Masonic symbols explained helps to demystify such emblems.
The Beehive?
The Beehive is a classic Masonic emblem representing the virtues of industry and cooperation. Just as a hive is filled with bees working together for the common good of their colony, a Masonic lodge is meant to be a place of productive and harmonious labor. It teaches that Masons should be industrious in their personal and professional lives, avoiding idleness and contributing to the welfare of society.
This symbol also speaks to the importance of order and discipline. The structure of a beehive is a marvel of natural engineering, and it reminds Masons of the benefits of a well-organized and systematic approach to their work, both within the lodge and in the world at large. Many beautiful examples of Freemason symbols like the beehive can be found in Masonic art and regalia.
The Anchor and Ark?
The Anchor and Ark are a pair of symbols that represent the journey of life and the hope for a peaceful end. The Ark is a metaphor for the body, navigating the often turbulent seas of human existence. Life is full of challenges, passions, and uncertainties, much like a ship caught in a storm.
The Anchor, in this context, symbolizes a well-grounded hope. It is the spiritual and moral foundation that keeps a person steadfast and secure amidst life’s trials. It represents a Mason’s faith in the Great Architect and the belief in a peaceful harbor after the journey is complete. Together, these symbols teach the lessons of faith, hope, and perseverance, unveiling the secrets behind the craft that guide a man through adversity.
The Level and Plumb?
Like the Square and Compasses, the Level and the Plumb are working tools of an operative mason that have been given profound symbolic meaning. The Level is an instrument used to ascertain a horizontal plane. In speculative Masonry, it symbolizes equality. It teaches that all men meet within the lodge on the same level, regardless of their wealth, social status, or station in life.
The Plumb is a tool used to determine a true vertical line. It is a symbol of uprightness of character, rectitude, and integrity. It reminds a Mason to live an upright life, to be true to his principles, and to act with justice and sincerity in all his dealings. These tools are fundamental to the moral architecture of Freemasonry.
Are There Symbols for Different Masonic Degrees?
Yes, the symbolic journey of a Freemason unfolds through a series of degrees, most commonly the three degrees of the Blue Lodge: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Each degree introduces new symbols and allegories that build upon the lessons of the previous one, guiding the candidate on a progressive path of self-discovery. The diversity of Masonic symbol meanings expands as a member advances.
What Symbols Pertain to the Entered Apprentice?
The Entered Apprentice degree is a candidate’s first step into Freemasonry. Its symbols are foundational, focusing on the basics of self-improvement and moral discipline. The 24-Inch Gauge is a ruler that is symbolically divided into three parts, representing the 24 hours of the day. It teaches a Mason to properly apportion his time between service to God, his usual vocations, and refreshment and rest.
The Common Gavel is a tool used to break off the rough corners of stones. Symbolically, it represents the force of conscience and the effort required to divest the heart and mind of the vices and superfluities of life. This work prepares the individual for a more polished and virtuous existence. This is illustrated by the Rough and Perfect Ashlars. The Rough Ashlar is a stone as taken from the quarry, representing man in his natural, uneducated state. The Perfect Ashlar is a stone that has been squared and smoothed, representing man as improved by the teachings of Freemasonry.
What About the Fellowcraft and Master Mason Degrees?
The Fellowcraft degree shifts the focus from moral basics to intellectual pursuits. A central symbol is the Winding Staircase, which represents the journey of learning and the study of the liberal arts and sciences. It encourages the Mason to expand his mind and seek knowledge as a path to further enlightenment. The deeper philosophical layers of masonic symbol meanings are explored in these advanced degrees.
The Master Mason degree is the culmination of Blue Lodge Masonry, and its symbols deal with the profound themes of mortality, legacy, and resurrection. The Trowel, a tool used to spread the cement that binds a building together, becomes a symbol of brotherly love and affection. It is the tool used to spread the ‘cement’ of kindness and fellowship that unites the fraternity. Other symbols, like the Sprig of Acacia, represent the concept of immortality and the hope for a life beyond the grave.
Do Symbols Extend Beyond Objects?
The symbolic language of Freemasonry is not limited to physical objects and tools. The entire Masonic experience is steeped in allegory and symbolism. The concept of Light is a pervasive symbol throughout all Masonic degrees. It represents truth, knowledge, wisdom, and divine revelation. A candidate’s journey is often described as a path from darkness to light.
Architectural elements are also deeply symbolic. The Two Pillars, which stood at the entrance to King Solomon’s Temple and are known as Boaz and Jachin, represent strength and establishment. They symbolize the support and stability that the fraternity offers its members. Even the layout of the lodge room itself is a symbolic representation of the universe.
Furthermore, many of the so-called secrets of Freemasons are themselves symbolic in nature. The various modes of recognition are not merely for identification but serve as allegorical reminders of the lessons learned within each degree. They are part of the shared symbolic language that binds Masons together in a common pursuit of moral and intellectual light.
This intricate web of symbolism is what makes Freemasonry a unique and transformative journey. It is a system that encourages a man to look beyond the surface, to contemplate the deeper meanings of life, and to build himself into a better, wiser, and more virtuous individual. The symbols are not the destination; they are the signposts on the path to self-knowledge.
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 or associated with evil?
While often misunderstood, Masonic symbols are not secret in the sense of being hidden from the public; many, like the Square and Compasses, are openly displayed. Instead, they are considered allegorical tools whose full, layered meanings are progressively revealed to members as they advance through the degrees. These symbols are intended to convey positive moral and philosophical lessons, serving as reminders of a Mason’s duties to themselves, their community, and a higher power.
The association of these symbols with evil or nefarious purposes stems largely from historical anti-Masonic sentiment and modern conspiracy theories. For Freemasons, these emblems are sources of pride and contemplation, representing virtues like truth, charity, and morality. The interpretations are rooted in stonemasonry guilds and classical philosophy, not in any form of dark or occult practice.
How are symbols used to teach lessons in Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is often described as a "system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols," meaning the symbols are the primary teaching method. During initiation rituals, or degrees, candidates are presented with symbols like the level, plumb, and trowel, and their moral applications are explained. These objects act as tangible, memorable representations of abstract ethical principles that a Mason is expected to apply to their life.
For example, the square is not just a builder’s tool but a reminder to "square one’s actions" with the principles of virtue and morality. Likewise, the compasses teach a Mason to "circumscribe their desires" and keep their passions within due bounds. This symbolic method encourages personal reflection, allowing each lesson to be internalized in a way that a simple lecture could not achieve.
Can the meaning of a Masonic symbol change for an individual over time?
Yes, a key aspect of the Masonic experience is that a member’s understanding of its symbols deepens and evolves throughout their life. While a core meaning is taught initially, Freemasonry strongly encourages personal study and contemplation, a practice often referred to as "making a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge." As a Mason gains more life experience and reflects on the fraternity’s teachings, a symbol’s significance can become much more personal and profound.
This journey of understanding is intentional, as the symbols are designed to be rich with multiple layers of meaning. A young Mason might see the All-Seeing Eye primarily as a reminder of divine omniscience, but over the years, they may come to interpret it as a symbol for spiritual enlightenment or the pursuit of universal truth. This personal evolution in understanding is a hallmark of a dedicated and reflective Masonic path.
