What's the significance of Boaz in Freemasonry?
In Freemasonry, Boaz is one of the two pillars that stand at the entrance of King Solomon's Temple, the other being Jachin. The pillars symbolize various dualities and principles, with Boaz representing strength, firmness, and stability. According to Albert Pike in *Morals and Dogma*, Boaz is associated with the concept of unity and is described as embodying the passive aspect of the divine, while Jachin represents the active aspect. Together, they illustrate the balance of forces in nature and the universe.
Pike elaborates that Boaz, as a symbol, is linked to the eighth Sephiroth in the Kabbalah, which signifies glory and perfection of the Deity. The name Boaz itself translates to 'strength' or 'firmness', reflecting its foundational role in the Masonic structure and philosophy. The pillars also serve as reminders of the importance of faith and trust in God, which are central tenets of Masonic belief.
Thus, Boaz is not merely a structural element but a profound symbol of the principles that guide Masonic teachings and the moral framework within which Masons operate.