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The mason symbol is one of the most well-known yet often misunderstood secret society symbols. Known for being associated with the Freemasons, the square and compass image has a history dating back centuries. Over the years, many theories and myths have sprung up surrounding the meaning and origins of the mason symbol. Understanding the facts and history behind the emblem can help shed light on this intriguing icon.
Origins and Early History
While the exact origins of the mason symbol are shrouded in mystery, most scholars agree that early versions of the square and compass image appeared in the Middle Ages. During this era, the square and compass were tools used by stonemasons, the skilled craftsmen who built castles, cathedrals and other important medieval structures. Stonemason guilds adopted these tools as symbols of their craft. Some historians propose that early mason guilds transformed into networks of learned men and prototypical secret societies in Scotland around the 16th and 17th centuries. The square and compass image became associated with these scholarly fraternities and was later adopted by the Freemasons in the 18th century.
Other researchers argue the emblem has roots in ancient Egypt. The square and compassroughly resemble the square and circle hieroglyphs found in ancient Egyptian carvings and papyri scrolls. This hieroglyphic pairing represented concepts like perfection, balance and morality to the Egyptians. Some Egyptologists propose that ancient mystery schools and secret societies applied esoteric meaning to the square and circle symbols, influences that were later carried into medieval masonic guilds. While no definitive evidence confirms direct links, circumstantial connections suggest the square and compass may have deeper roots in the symbology of the ancient world.
Use By Freemasons
While mason guilds and possible proto-Masonic secret societies used the square and compass symbol in earlier periods, the emblem became firmly associated with Speculative Freemasonry in the 18th century. As Freemasonry transitioned from the actual stonemason guilds of the Middle Ages to accepted gentlemen’s fraternities, the square and compass took on philosophical meanings within Masonic teachings. For Freemasons, the square represents morality, virtue and fairness while the compass signifies reason, judgement and faith. Together, the square and compass embody core Masonic principles of service, fraternity and high ethics.
In Freemasonry, the letter “G” placed inside the center of the compass and square image holds deep symbolic meaning. Different interpretations exist, but most agree the “G” stands for both God and Geometry. This alludes to how God created the universe using geometric principles and mathematics, and represents the central role that the “Great Architect of the Universe” holds in Masonic traditions. Masonic lodges prominently displayed the square and compass with the letter G in their meeting spaces during the 1700s Enlightenment era as a symbol of the order’s beliefs.
| Year | Masonic Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1390 | Earliest known records of Masonic regalia featuring the square and compass discovered in England. |
| 1583 | A coffin dated to this year uncovered in Scotland contains the oldest known engraved square and compass Masonic symbol. |
| 1717 | Formation of the Grand Lodge of England formalizes Speculative Freemasonry, square and compass emblem adopted. |
| 1732 | Earliest American Masonic lodges founded in Pennsylvania, including square and compass in traditions. |
| 1733 | First Grand Lodge in the colonies established in Massachusetts, uses square and compass logo. |
Modern Use and Variations
Today the square and compass remains one of the most iconic Masonic symbols and continues to feature prominently in Masonic lodges, documents, regalia and media. While different variations exist, the most common design features a compass laying atop a square and both arms of the compass open in a sixty degree angle. The square and compass is rendered in basic blue or black in many cases, but can include more ornate variations with gold embossing and decorative flair.
In addition to its enduring use in Masonic fraternities, the square and compass has also become a common tattoo design and appears in consumer media, merchandise and paraphernalia related to Freemasonry. Critics argue that the prevalence of the emblem in popular culture far exceeds its legitimate symbolic purpose in Masonic activities. However, many Masons see the square and compass icon as a conversation starter allowing them to highlight Masonic philosophies and charitable works.
Controversies and Misconceptions
Like many secret society symbols, the Masonic square and compass has been the subject of conspiracy theories and misinterpretations. Anti-Masonic political movements in the 18th and 19th century helped spread suspicions about Freemasonry and its symbols across Europe and America. Some problematic rumors included claims that Masons had orchestrated the French Revolution, were infiltrating governments and were involved with the Illuminati.
Misconceptions about Masonic symbols being occult talismans or having mystical powers also arose. In fact, standard Masonic instructions clarify that symbols like the square and compass are not sacred objects of worship. However, these types of conspiracy claims created lasting myths that contribute to misunderstandings of the emblem today. Critics also sometimes inaccurately conflate the square and compass symbol with the skull and crossbones, pentagram, inverted cross and other controversial iconography.
Conclusion
While often misconstrued as an occultist’s sigil or mystical charm by the misinformed, the Masonic square and compass in fact represents core enlightenment values of morality, reason and brotherly love. The emblem’s origins trace back centuries to the tools of medieval stonemasons that went on to symbolize ethics and contemplation in early Masonic orders. Despite being shrouded in intrigue, the square and compass ultimately embodies the philanthropic pillars of Freemasonry still practiced around the world today.