Masonic Symbols Explained: A Complete Glossary of Meanings
The Square and Compasses emblem is one of the most recognized logos in the world. Seen on buildings, rings, and historical documents, it immediately evokes a sense of mystery, history, and ancient knowledge. For centuries, the symbols of Freemasonry have captivated the public imagination, often misunderstood as cryptic codes of a secret society. The reality, however, is far more profound and enlightening.
These symbols are not meant to conceal but to reveal. They form a rich visual language, a system of allegory and symbolism designed to teach moral, ethical, and philosophical lessons to its members. Each emblem is a tool for self-improvement, a reminder of the principles that a Mason strives to live by. This guide aims to demystify this visual language for a general audience, offering a clear explanation of what these ancient symbols truly represent.
By exploring this glossary, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the intellectual and spiritual heritage of the Craft. It is a journey into a system that uses the tools of ancient stonemasons to build better men. This complete guide provides a foundational look into the world of Freemasonry symbols, serving as a starting point for those curious about the fraternity’s rich allegorical tradition.
Why Does Freemasonry Use Symbols?
To understand Masonic symbolism, one must first appreciate its purpose. Freemasonry is often described as a ‘peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols’. This means it uses stories and visual emblems to convey complex ideas that might otherwise be difficult to grasp.
Symbols are a universal language. They can communicate concepts across different cultures, languages, and time periods in a way that plain words sometimes cannot. A symbol can hold multiple layers of meaning, revealing deeper insights as a person gains more knowledge and experience. This method of teaching encourages contemplation and personal interpretation.
In Masonry, these are not arbitrary images. They are drawn primarily from the tools of operative stonemasons, the architects and builders of the great cathedrals of Europe. By taking the tools of a physical craft, Freemasonry turns them into instruments for a spiritual and moral craft: the building of one’s character.
This allegorical framework allows a Mason to reflect on his own life, his relationship with others, and his place in the universe. The symbols are constant, visible reminders of the virtues and principles he has sworn to uphold, guiding his actions and thoughts in his daily life.
What Are the Most Common Masonic Symbols?
While there are hundreds of symbols used within the various degrees and orders of Freemasonry, a core set of emblems is central to the experience of every Mason. These are the symbols introduced in the first three degrees, known as the Blue Lodge or Craft Masonry. They form the foundation of all Masonic teaching and philosophy.
From the iconic Square and Compasses to the enigmatic All-Seeing Eye, each symbol has a specific and layered meaning. Understanding these primary emblems is the key to unlocking the entire philosophical system of the Craft. They represent the fundamental tenets of morality, equality, truth, and self-improvement that lie at the heart of the fraternity.
What Do the Square and Compasses Represent?
The Square and Compasses, often with the letter ‘G’ in the center, is the single most identifiable symbol of Freemasonry. It is not one symbol but three distinct emblems combined, each with its own rich meaning. Together, they represent the balanced life a Mason should aspire to lead.
The Square is an architect’s tool used to test the accuracy of right angles and to ensure that a stone is ‘true’. Symbolically, it represents morality, truthfulness, and honesty. To ‘act on the square’ is a phrase that means to be fair and honest in all dealings. It is a constant reminder for a Mason to square his actions by the square of virtue with all mankind.
The Compasses are a tool used to draw circles and arcs, defining the limits and boundaries of a design. In Masonic symbolism, the Compasses represent self-restraint and the importance of keeping one’s passions and desires within due bounds. It teaches a Mason to circumscribe his desires and keep his passions in check, a crucial element of self-control and discipline.
At the center of the emblem, the letter ‘G’ is often found. This letter has a dual meaning. Primarily, it stands for God, or more broadly, the Great Architect of the Universe, the divine source of all creation. It also stands for Geometry, which was considered the pinnacle of the sciences in the ancient world and the foundation upon which civilization was built. For Masons, it represents the sacred and the scientific, intertwined as one. The exploration of these core emblems is a cornerstone of Masonic education, as many lodges provide resources to help new members understand the masonic symbols explained in detail.
What is the Meaning of the All-Seeing Eye?
Another prominent and often misunderstood symbol is the All-Seeing Eye, also known as the Eye of Providence. It is typically depicted as a single human eye enclosed within a triangle or a burst of light. This symbol is not exclusive to Freemasonry; it has appeared in various cultures and religious traditions for centuries, most famously on the Great Seal of the United States.
In a Masonic context, the All-Seeing Eye represents the omniscience and omnipresence of the Great Architect of the Universe. It is a powerful reminder that a Mason’s every act, thought, and word is observed by a higher power. This is not meant to be a symbol of surveillance or control, but rather one of accountability and comfort.
It teaches that one can never truly be alone and that integrity is essential, even when no one else is watching. The symbol encourages a Mason to live a life of truth and righteousness, knowing that his character is being judged by a divine and unerring standard. The triangle surrounding the eye often represents the deity’s sacred and perfect nature, reinforcing the symbol’s divine connotations. A wide array of freemason symbols are used to convey these complex philosophical ideas.
What Are the Three Great Lights of Masonry?
In every Masonic lodge, the Three Great Lights are prominently displayed. These are the Volume of the Sacred Law, the Square, and the Compasses. They are considered the foundational sources of light, knowledge, and truth within the Craft, and no lodge can officially conduct its business without them being present.
The Volume of the Sacred Law, or VSL, is the holy book appropriate to the faith of the Masons in that particular lodge. In lodges within predominantly Christian countries, this is typically the Bible. However, in other parts of the world or in lodges with diverse memberships, the Torah, the Quran, the Vedas, or other sacred texts may be used. This practice underscores Freemasonry’s universal nature and its respect for individual faith. The VSL represents the revealed will of the Great Architect.
The Square and Compasses, as previously discussed, are also considered Great Lights. In this context, the Square is said to regulate our actions, while the Compasses are said to circumscribe our passions. The VSL provides the spiritual and moral guidance, while the Square and Compasses provide the tools to apply that guidance in one’s life. The process of learning about these lights is part of unveiling the secrets behind the craft.
What Are Some Other Important Masonic Tools and Emblems?
Beyond the most famous symbols, Freemasonry utilizes a host of other emblems, many of which are also working tools from operative masonry. Each one carries a specific moral lesson designed to build upon the foundational principles of the Craft.
These symbols are often presented on a ‘tracing board’, a visual aid used in lodges to illustrate the lessons of each degree. By studying these emblems, a Mason learns to see the world through an allegorical lens, finding moral instruction in everyday objects and concepts.
What Do the Plumb, Level, and Rule Symbolize?
These three working tools are central to the teachings of the first two Masonic degrees. The Plumb is a weight suspended from a line, used by builders to ensure that walls are vertically true. Symbolically, it represents uprightness of conduct and integrity. It reminds a Mason to walk uprightly and justly before God and man.
The Level is a tool used to check for horizontal accuracy. For Masons, it is a potent symbol of equality. It teaches that all men meet on the level, regardless of their station in life, wealth, or background. Within the lodge, all Brothers are considered equal, and this principle should guide their interactions in the wider world.
The 24-inch Gauge is a ruler, a simple instrument for measurement. Symbolically, it represents the proper division of time. It is a reminder to portion out the 24 hours of the day into periods for work, for rest and refreshment, and for service to God and a distressed worthy Brother. It is a lesson in time management, discipline, and balanced living. The application of these tools is a practical part of Masonic life, a subject further explored in other masonic symbols explained guides.
Why is the Rough and Perfect Ashlar Important?
The ashlars are two of the most profound and personal symbols in Freemasonry. They represent the process of self-improvement and moral education that is at the very core of the Masonic journey.
A Rough Ashlar is a stone as it is taken from the quarry: crude, unfinished, and imperfect. This symbolizes man in his natural state, ignorant and uncultivated. It is the raw material of character, full of potential but requiring work and education to become something more.
A Perfect Ashlar, by contrast, is a stone that has been shaped, smoothed, and squared by the tools of the stonemason. It is fit to be used in the construction of a great temple. This symbolizes a man who, through Masonic education, self-discipline, and life experience, has improved his character and refined his spirit. He has worked to smooth the rough edges of his nature to become a better version of himself, fit to be a part of that spiritual building not made with hands. This journey is undertaken within the supportive environment of the masonic association.
What is the Significance of the Two Pillars, Boaz and Jachin?
Prominently featured in Masonic art and ritual are two large pillars, often depicted at the entrance to the lodge room. These are named Boaz and Jachin, and they are representations of the two great bronze pillars that stood at the porch of King Solomon’s Temple, a central setting for Masonic allegory.
Boaz, the pillar on the left, is said to mean ‘in strength’. Jachin, the pillar on the right, is said to mean ‘He will establish’. Together, their names can be interpreted as ‘In strength, He will establish His house’. Symbolically, these pillars represent stability, permanence, and the establishment of a firm foundation.
They remind the Mason that his own moral and spiritual structure must be built on a solid foundation of faith and knowledge. They also represent the dualities of nature and the balance required in life. The study of these and other foundational emblems is a key part of understanding masonry symbols and meanings in their full context.
What Do the Beehive, Anchor, and Ark Represent?
These three emblems are often grouped together and serve as important allegorical lessons. The Beehive is a symbol of industry and cooperation. It teaches that Masons, like bees in a hive, should work together diligently and harmoniously for the common good, creating something greater than any one individual could achieve alone.
The Anchor is a classic symbol of hope and steadfastness. In a world of uncertainty and change, the anchor represents a well-grounded hope that keeps the soul steady. It is paired with the Ark, which is a symbol of safety and refuge, representing a life well-spent that can weather any storm. Together, the Anchor and Ark symbolize a well-grounded hope and a well-spent life.
These are just a few of the many visual emblems used in the Craft. From the Trowel, which spreads the cement of brotherly love, to the Gavel, which divests the heart of vice, each symbol adds another layer to a Mason’s education. Many of these can be seen in various forms of Masonic art, providing a rich visual tapestry of the fraternity’s teachings. You can explore a gallery of pictures of freemason signs to see how these emblems are depicted.
How Do These Symbols Connect to Masonic Degrees?
Freemasonry’s teachings are not delivered all at once. They are revealed progressively through a series of degrees. The core of this system is the three degrees of Craft Masonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Each degree has its own set of symbols and lessons tailored to a specific stage of a Mason’s development.
The Entered Apprentice degree is focused on beginnings, purification, and the foundations of morality. The symbols introduced here, like the 24-inch Gauge and the Rough Ashlar, emphasize discipline, the importance of a first impression, and the start of the journey of self-improvement.
The Fellowcraft degree represents the stage of learning and intellectual growth. Its symbols, including the pillars Boaz and Jachin and lessons on geometry and the liberal arts and sciences, encourage the Mason to expand his knowledge and apply reason to his spiritual journey.
The Master Mason degree is the culmination of the Craft system. It deals with the themes of mortality, fidelity, and spiritual resurrection. Its symbols, such as the Acacia sprig and the Setting Maul, are more complex and are designed to impart the highest principles of Masonic philosophy, preparing the Mason for the completion of his symbolic spiritual temple.
This layered approach ensures that the lessons are absorbed and understood over time. The symbols of Freemasonry are not merely decorative; they are a curriculum for life. They are tools for contemplation, guideposts for moral conduct, and a timeless language that connects Masons across the globe in a shared pursuit of light and truth.
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 religious, or are they purely philosophical?
While Freemasonry is not a religion, its symbols are deeply rooted in religious and philosophical traditions to convey moral lessons. Symbols like the All-Seeing Eye or Jacob’s Ladder are not objects of worship but serve as allegorical tools for instruction and contemplation. They are intended to remind a Mason of his duties to a Supreme Being (as he understands Him) and to mankind, using a universal visual language.
This distinction is crucial; Freemasonry requires a belief in a higher power but does not prescribe a specific faith. The symbols are therefore designed to be compatible with various religious beliefs, acting as a common framework for men of different backgrounds to explore morality and self-improvement. They are philosophical in application but often draw upon sacred imagery to illustrate universal truths about life, death, and virtue.
Why are some Masonic symbols misinterpreted or associated with conspiracy theories?
The historical privacy of the fraternity is a primary reason for the misinterpretation of its symbols. For centuries, Masonic teachings were reserved for members, which naturally led to speculation and suspicion from outsiders who lacked the proper context. This information vacuum allowed detractors and fiction writers to assign sinister meanings to symbols like the Square and Compasses or the Blazing Star, linking them to secret societies with nefarious goals.
Furthermore, many Masonic symbols have ancient origins predating the fraternity and are not exclusive to it, such as the All-Seeing Eye, which has roots in ancient Egypt. When these powerful, archetypal images are seen without their Masonic educational context, they can be easily co-opted into conspiracy theories. The abstract nature of symbolism means that without the specific allegorical lessons taught in the lodge, any meaning can be projected onto them.
Can the meaning of a Masonic symbol differ for each individual Mason?
Yes, while every symbol has a standard, accepted meaning taught within the lodge, Masons are encouraged to find personal significance in them. The formal explanations provide a foundation, but the true purpose of the symbolism is to serve as a catalyst for personal reflection and moral development. This journey of "making good men better" is inherently individual.
As a Mason progresses in his journey and gains more life experience, his understanding of a symbol will naturally evolve and deepen. A symbol like the Rough Ashlar, representing an unrefined man, will mean something different to a new member than to a 30-year veteran who has spent decades working on his own imperfections. This layered, personal interpretation is considered a vital part of the Masonic experience.
