How does the First Degree Tracing Board represent duality?

The representation of duality on the First Degree Tracing Board is embodied in the mosaic pavement, depicted as a checkered pattern of alternating black and white squares 1. Its parti-colored design represents the opposing conditions of human existence, specifically symbolizing the good and evil of human life 1.

Although early records of speculative lodges contain minimal commentary on the origin or early interpretation of the pavement, it has long been classed among the lodge's traditional ornaments alongside the blazing star and the indented tassel or border 1. Within this group of symbols, the contrasting black and white stones serve to illustrate moral opposites 1. Albert Pike similarly read the alternating pattern as a symbolic representation of the dual principles of good and evil 1.