What is the significance of the Square in Freemasonry?
The Square is one of the most important symbols in Freemasonry, representing morality, uprightness, and fairness. It is the typical jewel of the Master and symbolizes the tool used by stonemasons to ensure that stones are cut to the correct right angle, which is essential for constructing stable structures. As noted by Carl H. Claudy, "the Square shares with the Level and the Plumb the quality of immovability in the lodge, meaning that as it is always the jewel of the Master, so is it immovably in the Symbolic East". The Square serves as a moral compass for Masons, guiding them to square their actions with the principles of right and justice in their daily lives.
Furthermore, the Square is not just a tool but also a symbol of virtue, always in sight of the brethren in the lodge, reminding them to align their actions with moral standards. Claudy emphasizes that "for him who carries his Masonry into his daily life, it is forever in sight within, the try square of conscience, the tool by which he squares his every act and word".