How do the four elements relate to Masonic teachings?

In the symbolic framework of the Lodge, the four metaphysical elements—earth, air, fire, and water—represent the physical form and compound nature of the human organism 2. Walter Leslie Wilmshurst interprets the four-sided or rectangular form of the Lodge as a depiction of man himself, noting that ancient philosophy used the number four to denote objective material existence 2. Under this reading, every manifested form is composed of these four basic elements balanced within the human constitution 2.

Within Wilmshurst's philosophical reading of Craft symbolism, each element corresponds to a specific aspect of human nature: "Water" signifies the psychic nature, "Air" represents the intellect or mentality, "Fire" embodies the will and nervous force, and "Earth" provides the physical condensation and casing that stabilizes the other three 2. The Lodge's oblong shape further reflects the physical body together with its ethereal counterpart, both existing as compounds of these same four elements 2.

While high-degree systems outside the Craft assign specific elements to particular degrees or seasons 1, within the three degrees of the Lodge the four elements serve primarily as a emblem of human composition, self-knowledge, and the balance of physical and spiritual properties 2.