Boaz

The pillar Boaz, placed on the left or north side of the porch at the entrance to King Solomon's Temple, literally translates to "in thee is strength" or "in strength" 12. Paired with its counterpart Jachin, which signifies establishment, the names together express that the house of God and His power are established in strength from everlasting to everlasting 12.

In Craft symbolism, Boaz represents strength and power, serving alongside Jachin as an emblem of the stability, perpetuity, and divine providence sustaining both the temple and the Masonic institution 12. William Preston introduced a further symbolic link to the pillars of cloud and fire that guided the Israelites through the wilderness, representing divine protection and superintending guidance 12. Under one reading recorded by Calcott, the left-hand pillar Boaz specifically alludes to the pillar of fire 1.

Beyond these theological references, Carl Claudy interprets Boaz as representing power in balance with control 2. In passing between Boaz and Jachin during the Fellowcraft degree, the candidate moves between strength and establishment, demonstrating that power without control or guidance remains useless, while control without power is futile 2. Taken together, the pillar stands as both a memorial of divine strength and a moral lesson on the proper application of human power 12.