What is the significance of an ear of corn by a stream of water

An ear of corn placed beside a stream or fall of water represents plenty, abundance, and wealth 12. This symbolism derives from the Hebrew word Shibboleth, which carries a dual meaning referring both to an ear of grain and to a flood or stream of water 12.

In the symbolic instruction of the Fellow Craft degree, this emblem illustrates the concept of abundance 1. Albert C. Mackey notes that a flowing stream or waterfall serves as an emblem of plenty due to the abundance of water it represents 1. While some ritual explanations historically substituted the term "waterford" for "waterfall," Mackey argues this was an error, as a ford suggests shallow water or scarcity, whereas a rapid stream or flood matches the literal Hebrew usage in scripture 1. Critics of Mackey's view point out that the biblical account specifically references the passages or fords of the River Jordan, arguing that a running river carries an equal volume of water whether at a ford or a cataract 1.

Beyond its linguistic link to a stream, the ear of corn—representing grain generally, such as wheat or barley—stands as an ancient emblem of harvest and nourishment 2. Together with wine and oil, grain forms part of the symbolic triad representing the fruits of labor, sustenance, and the reward earned through faithful effort 2.