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skill trades and professionals are also taught through the use of And to Paul Tillich, the existential philosopher, the symbol points
symbols. For example, mathematics and physics as well as beyond itself to something that is unquantifiable and mysterious:
chemistry, biology and many of the natural sciences make liberal use symbols open up the depth dimension of reality itself. (3).
of symbols to teach the up and coming Darwin’s and Einstein’s the Symbolism is the science of symbols and signs. In sculpture and
basics of their trades. Consider the symbol pi, the differential painting it is form and color; in language, words; in music, notes and
calculus symbol, the symbols of the Table of Periodic Elements and the markings for rests and dynamics. What allegory and parable are
the Latinized scheme of biology used to classify by family, genus and to literature and what figurative speaking is to language, so is
species the many plants and animals of this world. Cartography symbolism to our daily lives.
makes extensive use of symbols to communicate geographical In the Entered Apprentice degree, the candidate’s white garment
information. In fact, written and spoken words themselves are suggests his purity of intent. The compasses upon his breast signify
symbols for our thoughts and actions.
that he must undergo some sacrifice and suffering if he is to learn his
In Masonry we learn by symbols and what they mean and stand trade and attain the end that he seeks. His journey for light or
for. The very name symbol comes from the Greek word symbolon, education in Masonry starts in the North follows the Easter sun to the
meaning a watchword or token and this term has come to generally East, thence to the South, to the West and back into darkness. His
mean to compare, that is, to compare the watchword or token with a circumambulations must be completed several times to remind him
reality or a concept. A symbol then is the expression of an idea by of the time it takes to learn. He meets numerous obstacles via the
comparison. An abstract idea can be conveyed by a comparison with Junior Warden, Senior Warden and Worshipful Master, along the
a concrete object. A symbol is a sign or representation in the form of way almost identical in appearance and word. These seemingly
an object or a gesture which suggests something else, another thing, minor obstacles yet determine if he is to proceed and be permitted to
an idea, an image or an emotion. advance. He must always and ever be worthy and well-qualified.
Heinrich Zimmer said: ―Concepts and words are symbols, just as He must approach the altar by regular upright steps symbolizing
visions, rituals, and images are. So too are the manners and not only his regular and upright character but the path he is choosing
customs of daily life. Through all of these a transcendent reality is to walk. His obligation is a list of duties he assumes by his assent to
mirrored…Symbols hold the mind to truth but are not themselves the them. Then the Light comes and with it the notion that he is not
truth. Hence it is delusory to borrow them. Each civilization, every alone, that all of his new Brothers are on the level with him, including
age, must bring forth its own interpretations.‖ (1) the Master who extends a hand, the universal symbol of friendship
and assistance. He is presented with a white apron, for operative
Joseph Campbell stated: ―We must distinguish, therefore, between Masons a necessary article of clothing for their work, but for the new
the sense and the meaning of the symbol…all the great and little Mason a symbol of his purity and innocence and signifies that only
symbolical systems of the past functioned simultaneously on three by conscientious toil can the moral lessons of Masonry be learned. It
levels: the corporeal of waking consciousness, the spiritual of dream, is also his badge, more ancient than the Golden Fleece or the
and the ineffable of the absolutely unknowable. The term meaning Roman Eagle, more honorable than the Star and Garter or any other
can refer only to the first two…The ineffable, the absolutely order that could be conferred. He is taught that the Holy Book, the
unknowable can only be sensed.‖ (2) square and the compasses are the three great lights of Masonry.

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