Within the context of Freemasonry, there are various Masonic symbols , each with a specific meaning. In this article, Spiritual Energy describes everything related to this topic.
freemason symbols
Freemasonry is an institution of the nature of an initiation rite, philanthropy, symbolism, philosophical, discreet, harmonious, selective, hierarchical, global and humanistic, which has a federal organization, based on fraternity. Therefore, it has various Masonic symbols, which have certain dignity.
This institution makes its appearance on the European continent in the XNUMXth century, constituted by a group of fraternity organizations from the groups that already existed of artisans and stonemasons. Thus seeking to improve human behavior, through the perseverance of each person.
It has five important principles, which are freedom, equality, fraternity, tolerance and humanity. Therefore, since it was created, several divisions have been generated that have originated different Masonic currents that have rites and symbols.
Many of the Masonic symbols arise from the customs of various disciplines, among which those of a philosophical, alchemical and geometric nature stand out. So the interpretation of each of them may be different, depending on the ritual in which it is found.
square and compass
They are the best known Masonic symbols. Because they are considered essential and essential components to give vitality to permanent and common fabrications. In addition, they are essential measuring tools for architects. Where the square means the representation of matter, as well as a measure of reality from the objective point of view.
While the compass symbolizes the spirit, the mentality and the abstraction, in fact in some cases also the subjective judgment. It is also associated with the iconic description of the act of creation, which is evidenced in the images of geometry, architecture and equality.
It is also associated with the letter A, due to its shape, this letter being a symbol of the beginning of all things. This figure also means the power to make measurements and the limit that can exist between things.
Therefore, the square signifies obligation, duty, and static rules, while the compass represents the desires and dispositions of each individual. In fact, this symbol has various interpretations, as the letter G in the center is associated by some with the initials of the Great Architect of the Universe and by others with geometry. Even in the context of the English language, it can mean God.
Similarly, both elements can be interpreted as symbols of the duality between the earthly and spiritual realms. The square also signifies balance, accurate measurement, and stability. Meanwhile, the compass draws the circle that represents the limits of each person's actions and the boundary between humanity and eternity. Learn more about amulets.
Trowel
This is one of the masonic symbols that is used to disperse the lime that mixes the stones, which represents for this institution, the charitable, supporting those who require it. Thus manifesting kindness and good deeds with others.
It is also associated with brotherly love with the union between each stone, which is delicate as lime, being able to adapt to any aspect and circumstance, capable of resisting any inconvenience and overcoming it.
So the spatula is used to unite, melt and guide the lime to the ideal combination, suppressing its excess and taking it to where it is necessary and required, in order to expand generosity and tolerance, being that way, also a tool for the Mason, as an active builder.
the crying virgin
This symbol means grief over the unfinished temple. So the crying virgin represents the condition of the incomplete temple. While the damaged column means that one of the most important supporters of Freemasonry fell. While disheveled hair means the most intense of people's pain.
The open book is associated with the fact that his memory is registered in the heart of each Mason, the acacia twig is related to discovering his remains, the urn represents that his ashes were accumulated in detail and the time behind it means that serenity and perseverance will make possible everything that is proposed.
The Hive
One of the Masonic symbols is the hive, which is an allegory of the lodge. This means the obedience and collaboration that is evidenced in the work that the bees do, so it can also symbolize the search for excellence. In fact, there are occasions where the hive is seen surrounded by seven bees, a number that has a special meaning in the rituals of Freemasonry.
Another of the meanings of this symbol is that it is related to the hierarchy that exists in the beehive with the hierarchy of the various elements among those that are part of Freemasonry. It can even mean the units, industriousness, procedure and work of the bees in the hive, fundamental characteristics to obtain good results in life.
Letter G
It is one of the most important Masonic symbols. As mentioned earlier, some interpret it as a symbol of the word "God . " Others interpret it as the first letter of the word GADU , which refers to the Great Architect of the Universe.
When used as a symbol of the Deity, it represents the Saxon of the Hebrew Yod and the Greek Tau , as these are the first letters of the Eternal in both languages. It also frequently appears in the central area of the square and compass symbol.
Some lodges interpret it as a representation of the science of geometry, which holds a very important place in determining the main foundations of architecture and Freemasonry. Also, learn about the Star of David.
Euclid's 47 or Pythagorean Theorem
Another of the most prominent Masonic symbols is this one that represents the Pythagorean theorem , so named because it was problem number 47 developed by Euclid.
Therefore, the formation of this image depends on the union of various lines, angles and triangles that make up the whole, since Freemasonry is based on the fraternity and integrity of its members, as well as the firmness of its activities related to charity. and the stability of the foundations on which society, brotherly love, and truth stand.
Regarding the largest square, it represents the base and sustainability, while the squares on each side signify the people to whom providence has bestowed blessings with various means to travel the flowery paths of life, in abundance and ease. .
Therefore, the different triangles that are inserted in the squares are associated with people full of happiness who enjoy the various social comforts and who do not exceed the limits of mediocrity. But individuals who have extensive satisfaction in administering the needs of workers or indigents associate with the angles that surround and support the figure.
The all-seeing eye
This is also one of the most prominent Masonic symbols. It represents God watching over humanity, and is therefore also known as the Eye of Providence. The triangle symbolizes the Holy Trinity , consisting of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
It is also used in the context of Freemasonry, as a representation of the great architect of the universe. So in the lodges it forms an important part, in the central area, located between the Sun and the Moon. There are some times that it is represented with the look down, in order to strengthen its character of omnipresence and observation of people's actions.
black and white mosaic floor
The difference of the opposite colors symbolizes the impermeable foundation of duality. Where black and white signify good and evil, it is also associated with light and shadow, day and night, freedom and oppression. Being the floor, a representation of the earth and the material world. Therefore, all Masonic lodges must have a floor with mosaics of these colors.
Star of five points
It is also one of the most common Masonic symbols. Its use began due to the popularity of geometry and even people dedicated to alchemy saw it as a symbol of the five main elements.
The Freemasons also interpret the points as the five principal properties that explain the universe. This symbol also has the letter G in the central area, which, as mentioned earlier, stands for the Great Architect of the Universe.
double headed eagle
This is one of the masonic symbols, which represents the past and the future, which is represented in the heads of the eagle. It also signifies the boundary between the two extremities of time, where one symbolizes order and the other advancement.
In the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, it is described by a triangle that has the number 33, which means that the 33rd degree has been awarded to the Mason who has this symbol.
Triple Tau
It is an abbreviation of the words Templum Hierosolymoe , which means Temple of Jerusalem. The outer triangle represents the human trinity comprising body, soul, and spirit. Therefore, the entire symbol represents death and rebirth in Masonic rites.
Ara or masonic altar
This altar is located in the lodge hall, which is used for Masonic ceremonies and rites, where oaths and promises are made. This altar signifies the point of communion with the Great Architect of the Universe.
Point inside a circle
This is one of the Masonic symbols and is related to Saint John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, who have the festivities in common, with the winter and summer solstices. Another meaning is that the point symbolizes the individual and the circle to the limitations that this possesses. When drawn between two parallel vertical lines, one means Moses and the other King Solomon.
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