Digital Lodge #1

  The letter G. A symbol appears on lodge furnishings, jewelry, regalia, artwork, and countless representations of the Craft. But what does the G actually mean? For many Freemasons, the answer is familiar: God and Geometry . The two meanings, however, did not necessarily appear in Masonic ritual at the same time. The historical development of the symbol is more interesting than the simple explanation often given. Geometry has deep roots in the intellectual and operative traditions from which speculative Freemasonry developed, while the association of the G with God emerged as Masonic ritual evolved during the eighteenth century. Geometry at the Foundation of Masonry To understand the letter G, it is first necessary to understand the importance of Geometry to the Masonic tradition. The connection between Masonry and Geometry is much older than the modern Masonic ritual. Medieval and early modern traditions surrounding the building arts regarded geometry as essential to architecture ...

  The 24-Inch Gauge is one of the least known Masonic symbols, yet beneath its humble appearance lies a profound meditation on the nature of human existence. It speaks of a mystery that is simple enough to understand, yet perhaps impossible to fully master. That mystery is time.   From Operative Tool to Moral Symbol In operative masonry, the 24-Inch Gauge served a practical purpose. A craftsman needed to measure the dimensions of stone and ensure that his work conformed to the requirements of the building. Measurement brought order to the work. Without it, the mason could cut a stone too large, too small, too thick, or too thin. A single mistake could affect the placement of other stones and ultimately compromise the structure. The tool therefore represented something fundamental to the craft: proportion. In Freemasonry, the individual becomes the material being worked upon, and our thoughts, habits, relationships, ambitions, responsibilities, and actions are all part of ...