But what do our symbols symbolize? (original) (raw)

We are all agreed that our Craft and its teaching are thickly overlaid with symbolism. Such being the case, it need not be pointed out that if we have not touched the rules by which symbolism is to be dealt with, the proper study of it has yet to be begun. In the ceremonies of Freemasonry there is a great deal that requires explanation, and the enquirer in each case is told that it is symbolical, but to his natural rejoinder " Symbolical of what? " he receives no answer whatever. The one great and pressing duty of Freemasons is to try to recover the lost meanings of many Masonic symbols; and to do this effectively it would be desirable to ascertain whether the symbolism now possessed has come by inheritance, or is the accidental result of adoption or assimilation. If Masonic symbolism has been inherited, then the analogous customs of remote antiquity should form the subject of study and investigation, and we should look for its explanation in the way things were done and practised in very early times, and introduced at a comparatively recent date. If, on the other hand, the symbols of Masonry have been borrowed and appropriated from any other source, then we must look for their meanings in the sense they were understood by those who incorporated them with, and engrafted them upon, our ancient Institution. Are we anywhere near agreement on this matter? E.O.A. Miscellanea Latomorum or Masonic Notes and Queries. A Serial intended to facilitate Intercommunications between Masonic Students on matters of interet in connection with Freemasonry. April, 1943. Margate : Printed for Private Circulation by W. J. Parret, Ltd., 25, Cecil Square. New Series Vol. XXVII, No. 7. Editor : Colonel F. M./ Rickard, 27, Great Queen St., W.C.2, London, England. p. 110-111.