Masonic Symbols

There are hundreds Masonic symbols but not all symbols are recognized throughout all Grand Lodges. The below symbols are taken directly from the ritual books of the Freemasons as well as their meanings. These are the most prominent and universally accepted Masonic symbols.

Masonic Square and CompassCompass and Square

The Compass is a masonic symbol reminding Masons to keep their actions within the limits of Masonry and possibility. The Square is a reminder to always measure their actions against the perfections of Masonry.

Letter G

Representing God and Geometry.

 

Masonic All seeing Eye

All Seeing Eye

Obeyed by the Sun, Moon and Stars and able to direct Comets, the Masonic Symbol The All Seeing Eye sees the most hidden places of the human heart and will reward each man according to his works.

 

 

 

ScytheScythe

Representing Time, the Scythe cuts through life and creates havoc for men. Even after escaping the dangers of youth, the Scythe of time still catches up to everyone and ‘delivers us to the land where our fathers have gone before us.’

 

 

 

TrowelTrowel

Working tools of Master Masons, or Third Degree, of Masonry. Symbolically used to spread Brotherly Love throughout Masonry

 

Masonic Plumb Square LevelPlumb, Square, and Level

Working tools of the Fellow Craft, or Second Degree, of Masonry. The Square is to try and lay bricks, the Level is to test along the horizon and the Plumb is to test the vertical placement.

 

 

Masonic 24in Gauge and Gavel24 inch Gauge and Common Gavel

Working tools of the Entered Apprentice. The 24 inch Gauge is to measure the work of Freemasons and the Gavel is to knock off imperfections leaving a more perfect stone for higher level masons.

 

 

Coffin, Acacia, Shovel, Setting MaulCoffin, Spring of Acadia, Setting Maul and Spade Shovel

Representing the tale of Grand Master Hiram Abiff, the Setting Maul was used to murder him and reminds Masons that death is imminent. The Coffin held the remains and holds everyone’s remains. The Spring of Acadia was planted at the head of the grave. It grew and flowered which reminds Masons of their faith in immortality of the soul.

Three Steps

Symbolic of the Three stages of initiation. Entered Apprentice is Youth and in that phase, Masons focus on obtaining knowledge to reach manhood. In Fellow Craft, representing Manhood, Masons apply their learnings to honor God, their neighbors and themselves. The final step, Master Masonry represents Age, where Masons reflect happily on a well spent life and hope for immortality.

Pot of Incense

Represents a Pure Heart which is an acceptable sacrifice to God. The Pot glows from heat as a pure heart glows with gratitude to God for existence and the comfort enjoyed.

The Beehive

Representing the hard industrious work of Masons and the social dependence of Mankind. Humans are born into the world completely dependent on others for basic sustenance and shelter for years like the Queen Bee is born of larvae.

Constitution and SwordBook of Constitutions guarded by the Tilers Sword

Represents the constant need to guard the secrets of Freemasonry in thoughts, words, and actions.

 

 

Sword and Naked HeartSword and Heart

Justice finds us all even when actions, thoughts, and words are hidden.

 

 

 

Anchor and ArkAnchor and Ark

A Masonic Symbol of well grounded hope and a well spent life. The Anchor represents a strong hold onto a peaceful harbor that offers protection from evil.

 

 

Masonic Euclid47th Problem of Euclid

Symbol to guide Masons love of the arts and sciences. Represented by three squares, the meaning goes back to Pythagoras’ creation of the pythagorean theorem.

 

HourglassHour Glass

As a man’s life moves swiftly and rapidly, so do the sands in an hourglass. This symbol teaches masons to appreciate life and understand that all worldly possessions stay here when he passes.