The ear of corn holds profound symbolism within Freemasonry, representing spiritual growth and the process of maturation. It is often associated with the idea of evolution and the indestructibility of life. As noted in the text, an ear of corn was shown to aspirants as a symbol of the supreme mystery at Eleusis, indicating the universality of evolution. The quote, “Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit” (John, xii, 24), encapsulates this idea of transformation and the necessity of sacrifice for growth.
Furthermore, the ear of corn is described as being planted near and nourished by a fall of water, symbolizing the candidate's spiritual condition and growth. This imagery suggests that just as corn ripens through the nurturing of water, so too does the individual grow spiritually through aspiration towards enlightenment and the divine.
In summary, the ear of corn symbolizes the journey of spiritual evolution, the importance of sacrifice, and the nurturing required for personal growth within the Masonic tradition.