Freemasons Symbols - Seven Things You May Not Know

Most people have seen Freemasons symbols in architecture, literature and cinema, most likely without realizing they are symbols of the Craft. Many Masonic symbols are evolved from ancient practices, each bearing its own interpretation, be it of a practical, spiritual, physical or religious nature. Below are seven things you may not know about symbols involved in Freemasonry.

• Many of the symbols the Craft uses pay homage to the original Freemasons, the medieval stonemasons, and include the tools of their trade such as the square, compass, level, gavel, trowel gauge and apron.
• The Pillars on the porch and their symbolism play a large role in the initiation ceremony of the Freemason Fellowcraft degree. In the Bible the pillars are named Jachin and Boaz, and they stood at the entrance to the Temple of Solomon. King Solomon's Master Mason Hiram Abiff is greatly revered in Freemasonry, and symbols from the Temple of Solomon are common.
• The letter G is a highly visible symbol of Freemasonry. God and geometry are deeply embedded in the Craft. Symbols involving the letter are more common in American and Canadian Masonry but less frequently in British and European Masonry.
• The all-seeing eye, also known as the eye of providence is a Masonic symbol. The all-seeing eye within an equilateral triangle which can either point up or down appears in Christendom as a symbol of the Holy trinity and is often found in Masonic art and rituals. It is meant to remind Masons of the Supreme Being and the watchful eye that acts as judge over his words and actions.
• Anti-Freemasons often cite the pentagram as a Satanic symbol linked to Freemasonry. The pentagram, a five-pointed star, has no historical link to Satanism and is not used as a ritual symbol or in any lectures or teachings within the Craft. It is, however, used as an ornament on seals and banners of Grand Lodges and by lodge Masters and Grand Masters on their collars of office.
• Bee Hives are commonly depicted Freemasons symbols. The Bee Hive represents the humility and importance of a strong team-based work ethic. It also symbolizes the practice of secrecy, as only the busy bees know what takes place within the hive.
• It is alleged that in 1791, Pierre Charles L'enfant the designer responsible for planning the Washington DC street, road and building system, hid many Freemason symbols, that are said to be linked to the occult, within these plans.

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