Author: Abu Raef
Freemasonry (part 20)
The Masonic Lodge Ladder (The Ladder of Ascent)
The ladder of the Masonic lodge is called the “Ladder of Ascent.” The importance of the ladder in ancient civilizations lies in the fact that it was regarded as a symbol and a means of connection between the higher divine realm and earthly human beings. It symbolized spiritual elevation and ascension, as well as the passage through the seven heavens in order to reach the gods, with the aim of liberating the human being from the worldly realm.
The ladder holds a special status in Jewish thought in general, and in Masonic thought in particular. This ladder, known as the “Ladder of Yaqub,” consists of three rungs, upon which angels ascended and descended, and symbolizes the stages of human perfection and spiritual ascent through faith, hope, and beneficence (Ihsan). [1]
It is also a symbol of one of the Masonic rituals and of a Mason’s attainment of the second degree, namely the degree of the “Craftsman.”
In other words, this ladder symbolizes the Mason’s effort to free himself from the material world, then from the cosmic world, and finally to reach the higher spiritual realm. [2]
The Symbol of the Apron and the White Gloves
The Masonic apron symbolizes a type of white garment that represents purity of thought and action. The Mason wears it and, by means of it, gains the right to sit among the Masons, with the belief that this apron protects their clothing and carries their working tools. This practice is carried out in imitation of the workers of the Temple of Prophet Solomon (PBUH), who are believed to have worn garments similar to this apron.
The white gloves that are given to a newly initiated Mason carry the same symbolism as the white apron: a symbol of purity and cleanliness, and a reminder of his commitments toward the fraternity he has joined. [3]
The Symbol of the Gavel
In Masonic symbolism, the gavel represents power and domineering authority. It is the tool by which the head of the lodge announces the opening and closing of lodge meetings. It is also regarded as a symbol of equality and justice.
At the same time, it is considered a symbol of violence and destruction, as it has been used as an instrument of brutal killing, just as it is claimed that Hiram Abiff of Tyre was killed with it. [4]
The Symbol of the Trowel
The trowel is a tool used in construction to join and bind stones together. In Masonic thought, this tool symbolizes brotherly love, which is supposed to unite all Masons so that the Solomonic Temple may be built. [5]
To be continued…
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References:
- Al-Mawsūʿah al-Muṣawwarah lil-Rumūz al-Taqalīdiyyah, p. 16, 34.
- Dalālāt al-Rumūz wa al-Arqām al-Muqaddasah fī al-Fikr al-Māsūnī, p. 214.
- Al-Rumūz al-Māsūniyyah, p. 425.
- Al-Mawsūʿah al-Muṣawwarah lil-Rumūz al-Taqalīdiyyah, p. 259.
- Al-Rumūz al-Māsūniyyah, p. 50.
