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. Symbol