| The Many Hidden Messages And Qualities Of Masonic Rings |
| Written by Darren Hoye | |
| Sunday, 06 June 2010 | |
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Freemasons are involved in many traditions and ceremonies that use various objects imbued with symbolism and meaning from the Brotherhood. Of the many symbolic objects used by Freemasons, masonic rings are one of the more outwardly obvious signs that the wearer is of The Craft. Traditionally worn on the right hand, masonic rings would be worn in secret, not allowing the public to identify their associations while protecting their identities. Historically, if an object like a Masonic ring revealed a mason's identity, he would be subject to execution.
Freemasons are involved in many traditions and ceremonies that use various objects imbued with symbolism and meaning from the Brotherhood. Of the many symbolic objects used by Freemasons, masonic rings are one of the more outwardly obvious signs that the wearer is of The Craft. Traditionally worn on the right hand, masonic rings would be worn in secret, not allowing the public to identify their associations while protecting their identities. Historically, if an object like a Masonic ring revealed a mason's identity, he would be subject to execution. A typical motif of the many styles of Masonic rings is a crest or design that incorporates the square and compass. Referring to the common knowledge that Freemasons share, the square and compass design is commonly regarded as an Oath to living a righteous and virtuous lifestyle. There are many different groups and communities that make up the Freemason Society, each of which hold a unique set of values while, in whole, working towards common goals. As such, Masonic rings carry the symbolism of each of these different groups in its own way while at the same time showing the belief in common knowledge. The unique design of each particular group's Masonic ring would express the beliefs held by that group. Historically speaking, Masonic rings were meant to be shown only in privacy of a Masonic lodge. Because of the various branches and groups in Freemasonry, each lodge can have its own unique type of Masonic ring which reflects specific symbolic meanings. The letter "G" on a Masonic ring can represent God or even Geometry. Another common symbol found on a ring is the skull and cross bones, symbolic of memento mori, or death. Having the sun on a ring can symbolize that the ring bearer is a Past Master of the lodge. Freemasons are devoted to Geometry and three squares on some Masonic rings would represent Euclid's 47th Proposition in Geometry. The image of an open book symbolizes knowledge to Freemasons. Masonic rings also have tools such as a Trowel or Plumb Level on their rings that would represent various qualities of life. The numbers 32, 33, and 14 are various degrees in the Freemason society and awarded based on completing different rites. A cross inside a crown reflects yet another degree and rite. The All Seeing Eye or Eye of Providence is a symbol of God watching. Some Masonic rings will have verses written on them such "In Hoc Signo Vinces," which is translated to mean victory and "Aude Vide Tace," which means "Watch, Listen, and Be quiet." The Eagle or Double Eagle is a popular motif on Masonic rings and if the image is an eagle with wings up, it represents a certain degree and rite and if the eagle has the wings down, it would represent another degree and rite. The Acacia Sprig on a Masonic ring symbolizes a Masonic ritual and hope. Masonic rings can be as unique and have as many different meanings as its wearer wishes. Historic figures and prominent people in the Entertainment industry are known to wear masonic rings which are reserved only for followers of the Craft. The Article Author: Looking to find the best deal on Masonic Jewelry, then visit www.AntiqueMasonicJewelry.com where they carry both new and antique items and you can find the best advice on Masonic rings for you. |
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