How does Albert Pike interpret the symbolism of the Square and Compass?

Pike interprets the Square and Compasses as representing the dual nature of man and the fundamental struggle between the spiritual and the material 1. The Square symbolizes the earthly and material aspect of human existence, while the Compass represents the divine, spiritual nature governed by reason and the moral sense 1.

The relative positions of these tools across the degrees signify the progressive advancement and victory of the spiritual over the material 1. In the degree of Entered Apprentice, the points of the Compass remain beneath the Square, indicating that the spiritual nature is submerged under material appetites and passions 1. For the Fellow-Craft, one point of the Compass is raised above the Square, marking an intermediate stage in this inner conflict 1. By the degree of Master, both points of the Compass are dominant over the Square, symbolizing the complete control and empire of the spiritual and divine over the earthly and sensual 1. Pike identifies this spiritual victory—the subjugation of human passions by reason—as the realization of the true Holy Empire toward which the philosophy of the Scottish Rite directs the Mason 1.