Dennis Yates--Author

Symbolism 101

To begin a discussion on a topic of this nature, one must first understand the importance of symbolism. In its most basic form, a word, syllable, and even a letter is a symbol in which to convey thought from one human to another. So, in essence, any picture or character is a symbol of thought. All communication requires some form of it to send a message. In fact, when you purchase items from San Antonio Hat Company, that is what you are doing. You are choosing a symbol of expression which most closely identifies your thoughts and feelings of Freemasonry to the world. However, this brief note is not about that expression, but the thought being conveyed by Masonic Improvement to you, each time you see their logo. Therefore, I now present to you the many things that came to your attention in one short glance:

• First and foremost, the most distinguishable symbol is the square and compass held so dear to the Craft of Freemasonry.
• Second, the capital G that sits in the middle. Not all square and compasses encapsulate the G, but most of your North American references do.
• Third, the Ouroboros that encircles the square and compass.
• Finally, our number one goal conveyed in plain text, Building a Better Brotherhood.

The Square and Compass

The square and compass is a very powerful message that every Brother within the fraternity should understand. It is the basis of our entire journey. While it seems so basic in nature, it has the most profound meaning of all of our symbols, and not just because there are many lessons contained within those points. Yet, I am only going to explain one meaning today.

In our personal journey, there are different ways in which the points of the compass are positioned which are extremely important to identify at what stage a Mason is in his personal development. All Masons should know this, but many may not. I can tell you all of the products sold by the SAHatCo will be correct because the owners are in fact Masons. I mention this because my first online order I made for a product appeared to be coming from Masons due to the name, but when I got an Entered Apprentice symbol in place of a Master Masons I knew I was dealing with normal people under false pretenses, which I confirmed later.

To wrap up this thought, I will cut to the chase by explaining the two symbols on their own and then putting them together to understand. The square represents the earthly nature in which we all possess as humans. As from the earth in which we came, and to the earth that we must return. The compass represents the celestial, or spiritual nature of those who believe in God, no matter which mode of faith it may be represented and explained by. Therefore, in its most simple definition, the square and compass symbolizes our journey from the terrestrial to the celestial, because there will come a time for all mankind to make that transition. We are merely attempting to understand and appreciate that passing as we travel upon that level of time.

The Capital G

After reading the last passage, I am fairly certain you know what the G stands for: “Geometry”! I knew you were with me on this! The reason Masons hold geometry so dear is because man has learned that there is nothing in and outside of this world that is not explained through some mathematical formula, geometry being the most basic form of those calculations, yet found in all of the work defining the terrestrial and celestial boundaries we know today. Of course trigonometry and physics take us into the depths of this understanding, it started with the Egyptians, Greeks, and other ancient Persian civilizations attempting to understand God and our place within that relationship. So, we reference the Creator, Grand Geometrician, or Great Architect of the Universe with the letter G.

The Ouroboros

Now we look at my personal favorite symbol of almost all symbols. The Ouroboros is one of the first symbols of eternity. However, I would like you to consider digging in just a little more when contemplating its importance. The origins date all the way back to the ancient mystery schools with the Egyptians and Greeks. Consider the nature of the reptile. It sheds its skin to grow. In a very simplistic thought, it must die to be reborn, or grow. As it is currently represented, it is eating itself, referencing constant devouring of itself and regeneration. Unity in the material and spiritual through the lessons of alchemical and gnostic symbolism. The Ouroboros represents infinite nature of the celestial and terrestrial through its constant destruction and recreation. The organic and constantly evolving nature of God and Man expressed with one simple symbol.

 Building a Better Brotherhood

Finally, the goal of Masonic Improvement is and has always been to assist the Craft in achieving their personal goals in growth and understanding. It is our deepest desire to help aid and assist all Masons in their journey, no matter how new or seasoned they may be. We believe we must all continuously be the Master to an Apprentice in a mentorship role, as well as ourselves being humble enough to recognize our need to be the Apprentice to another Master, so that we may continue to grow and develop our own skills as the Gentlemen of the day, striving to find solutions to the issues of the day, with other like-minded men through all the lessons of Freemasonry. When you wear our logo, this is what you are telling the world you believe the culture of our society of free and accepted men represents.

Authored by Dennis Yates