Lesser lights

The three lesser lights are positioned in the East, South, and West to light brethren to, at, and from labor 1. No light is placed in the North, because the sun darts no rays from below that horizon 1. Arranged in a triangular formation 3, these lights symbolically represent the Sun, the Moon, and the Worshipful Master of the Lodge 123. Just as the sun rules the day and the moon governs the night, the Master is intended to rule and govern the lodge with equal regularity, precision, and authority 23.

Symbolically, the sun represents sovereign authority and the intellectual light sought by Masons 2. The disposition of the lights reflects the three principal sources of authority in the lodge, corresponding to the Master in the East, the Junior Warden in the South, and the Senior Warden in the West, representing the rising, meridian, and setting sun respectively 2. By the illumination of these lesser lights, an Entered Apprentice is brought to perceive the Great Lights of Freemasonry 3.

Interpretations of Craft symbolism also view these lights as internal guides. By their assistance, a man is enabled to discern his own human nature, recognizing his body and soul as holy ground supported by Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty 4. A Mason is likewise encouraged to carry three symbolic lesser lights within his own heart—representing friendliness, helpfulness, and godliness—to direct his conduct and moral labor 3.