The pillars placed on the pedestals of the Worshipful Master (WM), Senior Warden (SW), and Junior Warden (JW) symbolize the three great pillars of Freemasonry: Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty. According to Masonic ritual, these pillars are essential for the support of the Lodge, representing the divine attributes that guide Masonic work. The WM embodies Wisdom, the SW represents Strength, and the JW signifies Beauty. This arrangement reflects the belief that wisdom is necessary to contrive, strength is needed to support, and beauty is essential to adorn all significant undertakings.
Furthermore, the pillars also symbolize the three aspects of divine consciousness and the qualities of the material world. The presence of these pillars serves as a reminder of the foundational principles upon which the Lodge operates, echoing the ancient traditions of architecture and spirituality that have influenced Masonic practices throughout history.
As stated in *The Hidden Life in Freemasonry*, "Our Lodges are supported by three great pillars - wisdom, strength and beauty... The universe is the Temple of the Deity whom we serve; wisdom, strength, and beauty are about His throne as pillars of His works".