The purpose of Masonry is ‘self-improvement’-not in the material sense, but in the intellectual, moral and philosophic sense of developing the whole persona and psyche so as, in the beautiful and emotive language of the ritual, ‘to fit ourselves to take our places, as living stones, in that great spiritual building, not made by hands, eternal in the Heavens.’ Such a hypothetical whole, developed, complete person must, in his journey through life, and in his interaction with others, make a more extensive contribution to society in general, thus realizing and fulfilling his expressed wish on initiation, to become ‘more extensively useful amongst his fellow-men.’ Such are the lofty, lawful and laudable aspirations of the Order.
When the “grinders cease” and the “golden bowl” is finally broken, dust returns to the earth as it was, and our spirits return to the Supreme Architect of the Universe. So while we are on earth, toiling away with youthful clarity, how do we understand our lives? Where are our beacons? How do we know our actions are correct? In our Gentle Craft, the Great Lights of Masonry, beacons for centuries, help guide Fellows and Brethren in Our Lodge, and Lodges around the world.
In Our Lodge, the Holy Bible spreads open upon the Altar of Masonry, and upon the Holy Bible rests the Square and Compasses. In other Lodges throughout the world, the Square and Compasses rest upon the Koran, the Talmud, or the Upanishad. Universally, The Great Lights of Masonry are symbols of Discovery, Honor, and Atonement. The Great Lights teach us to walk in the Light of Truth, obey the Law of Virtuousness, and thereby, overcome the baneful handcuffs of our earthly weaknesses.
The Square and Compasses are the ancient and ubiquitous symbols of Masonry. Since the time of Hammurabi, the Square and Compasses have appeared in allegorical and historical friezes. These symbols have adorned stone carvings, frescos, and canvas paintings. A stonecutter’s square represented earth, while the compasses (also compass) symbolized the arc of heaven. All over the world, whether as a sign on a building, or a badge worn by a Brother, these symbols are universally recognized as the emblems of our Ancient and Gentle Craft.
The Square is a simple tool used for testing the accuracy of angles, and the precision with which apprentice masons cut stones. Since the square was used to prove that angles were suitable, it essentially became an emblem of accuracy, integrity, and decorum. Just as squared stones must fit firmly together to make a sound building, our acts and thoughts should build a structure of Character. The Square is a symbol of morality, truthfulness and honesty, and guides Freemasons to square their actions with Virtue. To ‘act upon the square’ is to act honestly.
The Compasses directs Masons to be well rounded, and to comport ourselves within “due bounds” through watchfulness and restraint. The Compasses evinces our duty to be truthful to ourselves, and is a symbol of control, skill and knowledge. That which is harmful or unworthy should remain outside the circle of the Compasses.
Over the centuries, scripture and holy writ have become God’s megaphone to man’s soul, his spirit. Whether Freemasons consider the Bible, or any other sacred writing, Holy Writ, the Word of God, Good Advice, or Good Stories for Living, Our Ancient Craft subscribes to their collective and consuming messages of Faith, Hope, and Charity. It is in their teachings that a Mason learns to develop an attentive ear, an instructive tongue, and a faithful heart.
The Great Lights of Masonry embrace human nature as guiding principles for the body, mind, and soul, with a Degree of Masonry for each part. The Great Lights, The Square for our actions, The Compasses for our Mind, and the Holy Bible for our soul. Freemasons believe, that as a man honestly sees through these Great Lights, into his own, heart, and into his relations with his fellows, will his life be gladdened, steadfast, and genuine.
