Masonic symbols from the Old Testament
Many symbols of Freemasonry originate in or are linked to stories and symbols from the Old Testament. There are many legends surrounding the origins of Freemasonry, and we do not know of any historical sources that would dispel all doubts.
I conducted research, primarily online, to identify which essential symbols of Freemasonry can be linked to the Old Testament. I also researched the nature of this connection. I only wanted to discover connections to the Old Testament. I did not strive for completeness but only sought the most critical points of connection.
Freemasonry places great emphasis on ethical and moral teachings that are often compared to those of the Old Testament. These parallels suggest that the traditions and values of Freemasonry sometimes appear to be based on the Bible.
 Solomon’s Temple (also known as the First Temple) is one of the most well-known Masonic symbols, originating from the Old Testament.
In ancient thinking, this temple represented the path to God. The temple was the religious and cultural center of ancient Israel, and the Ark of the Covenant was kept there. The temple consisted of two main parts: the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. Although the building has been physically destroyed, its symbolic significance has remained. Stories and symbols related to the construction of the temple are essential to Masonic rites and symbolism. |
 The two pillars (Jachin and Boaz) were originally pillars of Solomon’s temple. In some Masonic rites, spheres are placed on top of the pillars.
Jachin means “He will strengthen,” while Boaz means “In him is strength.” Jachin symbolizes constancy, Boaz symbolizes strength, and together they represent stability and balance. |
 The Ark of the Covenant, built to store the Ten Commandments, is interpreted by Freemasons as a symbol of God’s presence, mercy, and the divine laws it contains.
It symbolizes the covenant between God and man.
In the Old Testament, light often symbolizes God’s presence and guidance. These symbols remind Freemasons to be guided by the lights of truth, wisdom, and faith throughout their lives. |
 The symbols of the sanctuary and altar found in the Old Testament appear in Freemasonry as symbols of sacrifice. The altar, located at the center of the sanctuary, symbolizes the divine presence and the sanctity of the rituals.
The lodge’s sanctuary is the communal and spiritual center of the brotherhood, where members perform their rituals together and commemorate the religious traditions of their founders. In Masonic lodges, members take the Masonic oath at the altar, affirming their commitment to the brotherhood. In blue Masonic lodges, the holy book of law occupies a central place on the altar. In many areas, this is the Bible. We also know of lodges where the Koran symbolizes the holy book of law. In many lodges, all three appear at the same time. This demonstrates Freemasonry’s openness, religious tolerance, and democracy. The presence of the holy book expresses lodge members’ respect for diverse religious and cultural traditions. |
 The story of Cain and Abel is essential to Freemasonry for its moral lessons and its concept of justice.
The story focuses on the themes of sibling rivalry, sin, and its consequences. According to some interpretations, Cain represents settled people, while Abel represents nomadic peoples. |
 Noah’s Ark: The story of the Flood is recounted in the first book of Moses. According to the narrative, the world’s sinfulness at that time had reached its limit, and God cleansed the earth of moral impurity through a flood. Only the God-fearing Noah escaped the flood that destroyed humanity, together with his family, his wife, his three sons, and his three daughters-in-law. His name and story are used symbolically in Masonic writings as symbols of safety, salvation, and new beginnings. The ark symbolizes rebirth and a new beginning.
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 The acacia is the symbolic plant of Freemasonry and is native to the Middle East. The Encyclopedia of Freemasonry states: “It is an interesting and important symbol in Freemasonry. It grew abundantly in the vicinity of Jerusalem, where it can still be found today, and in modern usage, the tree from which gum Arabic is used in commerce is derived.” In the Bible, Isaiah 41:19 states: “I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive tree.” I will plant cedar in the wilderness, the pine and the cypress together…”
We know of several meanings in Masonic rituals. Its thorns symbolize sin and mistakes, while its flowers and leaves symbolize purity, innocence, and healing. The acacia tree’s branch symbolizes the immortality of the soul, as its evergreen, unchanging nature reminds us of the spiritual part within us. The symbol is associated with the legend of Hiram Abiff, in which an acacia tree marked his grave. |
 Jacob’s Ladder – An allegorical tale about the biblical Jacob and his dream (Genesis 28:10-17), in which, as described, “the mind of the Freemason is constantly directed and hopes to eventually reach, with the help of the theological ladder that Jacob saw rising from the earth to heaven in his vision, whose three main steps are called Faith, Hope, and Charity; and which exhorts us to believe in God, hope for immortality, and love all mankind.”
Accordingly, the board sometimes shows a nine-step ladder resting on the ground at the bottom, with its top in the clouds and stars shining above it; It symbolizes the mystical ladder that Jacob saw in his dream, standing on the earth with its top reaching to the heavens, and on which the angels of God ascend and descend. In Freemasonry, Jacob’s ladder is often used as a symbol of progress and the path to greater knowledge and spiritual enlightenment. These symbols convey the moral, spiritual, and architectural messages of the Old Testament, while emphasizing the importance of individual development and community harmony. These symbols convey the moral, spiritual, and architectural messages of the Old Testament, while emphasizing the importance of individual development and community harmony. Jacob’s ladder symbolizes the connection between God and the human world. Jacob’s vision shows that God watches over people and is in contact with them. |
 Jacob and his twelve sons are central figures in the Old Testament. Jacob, whom God renamed Israel, was the descendant of Abraham and Isaac and one of the forefathers of the Jewish people. Jacob had two wives (Leah and Rachel) and two concubines (Bilhah and Zilpah), who bore him children: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph (whose story of his rise in Egypt became famous), and Benjamin.
Jacob’s story, especially his relationship with his sons, is full of family drama, lessons, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. The twelve sons later became the patriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob’s blessings and prophecies predict a specific destiny or future for each of his sons, which determined the future of the tribes. An essential element of Jacob’s story is the ladder to heaven (Jacob’s ladder) in Genesis 28:10–22. According to the story, while fleeing from the wrath of his brother Esau, Jacob laid his head on a stone to sleep at night. In his dream, he saw a ladder reaching up to heaven, with angels ascending and descending on it. At the top of the ladder stood God, who promised Jacob that he would bless him and his descendants, and that the land on which Jacob lay would belong to his descendants. Meaning and symbolism:
God is at work in the world, and his angels constantly connect the heavenly and earthly worlds. Jacob’s ladder has been given deep theological and spiritual interpretations over the millennia and is a frequently referenced symbol. |
| According to Freemason’s online Media portal, The Masonic World, there is a connection between the sons of Jacob and Freemasonry.
The history of the tribe of Simeon often exemplifies the responsibility of the individual and the community, as well as the importance of moral principles. For example, in Freemasonry, it symbolizes the abhorrence of cruelty. An example of this is the removal of all metal objects in the Masonic ritual. |
 Levi, Jacob’s third son, was the namesake of the tribe.
According to the Duncan ritual, his responsibilities are “to carry orders from the Master in the east to the Senior Warden in the west, and elsewhere around the Lodge as he directs; to introduce and vest all visiting brothers; to receive and conduct candidates.” … “To assist the Master in opening and closing the Lodge, and to ensure that no one leaves dissatisfied.” The tribe of Levi became a symbol of divine service and spiritual leadership. Their role emphasizes loyalty to God, moral purity, and community service. The tribe of Levi was given a special role in the Old Testament, becoming responsible for priestly and religious services. Among the families of the tribe of Levi, the descendants of Aaron became priests (Kohanim). The Levites were responsible for maintaining and transporting the tabernacle (mishkan) during the wandering in the desert. Later, they also took care of the temple in Jerusalem. The Levites also taught divine law, ensuring that the people knew and obeyed the Torah. |
 According to Masonic Word, the tribe of Judah is symbolized by the candidate’s entry into the lodge. This tribe was named after Jacob’s fourth son, Judah. This tribe was the first to cross the Jordan River. King David and his dynasty descended from the tribe of Judah. After the conquest of Canaan, the tribe of Judah received the southern territories as their inheritance, including the city of Jerusalem. This land was one of the largest and most important areas of ancient Israel. The tribe of Judah played a prominent role in fulfilling divine promises and preserving tradition.
Zebulun supported teaching and learning, for example, by assisting the tribe of Issachar, which was more concerned with studying the Torah. The tribe of Zebulun became a symbol of economic and commercial prosperity, which contributed to the material and social stability of the people of Israel. Their role also reflects the community’s vital harmony between material and spiritual goals.
The tribe of Dan symbolizes courage, strength, and fighting ability, yet it also warns of the dangers of spiritual deviation. Their story is a good example of how physical strength and courage are truly valuable only when combined with moral and spiritual principles. |
 The term “lambskin” refers to the tribe of Naphtali, according to an article on masonicword.com. The tribe of Naphtali represents the descendants of Jacob’s sixth son, Naphtali. This tribe played an essential role in Israel’s history, mainly due to its geographic location and prophetic blessings. When an apprentice is admitted to the order of Freemasonry in the American rite, he is given a lambskin or white apron as a gift. This apron symbolizes innocence and is the insignia of Freemasons.
In the Duncan Ritual, the Grand Master literally asks, “What makes you a Masonic apprentice?” The correct answer is, “My Obligation.” The tribe of Gad represents the descendants of Jacob’s seventh son, Gad. The tribe of Gad was said to be a brave warrior tribe. In Moses’ blessings, Gad was compared to a lion, always ready for battle (Deuteronomy 33:20). This made the tribe a symbol of bravery and military prowess. The tribe of Gad became a symbol of courage, strength, and sacrifice in Israel’s history. Their story reminds us that individual tribal interests must be balanced with the community’s protection and welfare.
The tribe’s name comes from the Hebrew word “asher,” which means “happiness” or “blessing.” It played a peaceful, economic role and became a symbol of abundance. |
 According to Masonic Word, the symbolism of the cornerstone in the northeast corner refers to Joseph’s tribe and his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. The northeast corner symbolizes explicitly the transition from darkness (north) to light (east) and represents a new beginning for the initiate.
The cornerstone in the northeast corner is a symbolic element of Freemasonry, used primarily in the initiation ceremony for new members. In architecture, the cornerstone symbolizes the foundation’s stability, and in Freemasonry, it represents a moral and spiritual foundation. The cornerstone reminds the initiative that this is the starting point on the path of moral and spiritual development in their life. This is where the “building” begins, symbolizing the construction of the individual’s character. The north symbolizes darkness, while the east symbolizes light. The northeast corner is thus the point where we step out of darkness into light, signifying the beginning of moral and spiritual enlightenment. Symbolism often conveys a sense of responsibility towards the community and the world, as new Freemasons are encouraged to build themselves up not only for their own benefit but also for the betterment of society. This symbolic element reminds participants that the goal of Freemasonry is self-improvement and service to society and humanity.
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 Freemasonry is often linked to various religious and philosophical traditions, and its connection to the Old Testament can be examined in several ways:
The relationship between Freemasonry and the Old Testament is complex and multifaceted, reflecting a blend of history, spirituality, and moral philosophy. For Freemasonry, the significance of the Old Testament goes beyond its purely religious meaning. Many Masonic rituals and symbols draw directly from the Old Testament, particularly from the sections relating to the construction of Solomon’s Temple. Furthermore, the laws and teachings of the Old Testament—such as the Ten Commandments or the 613 mitzvot—form the moral foundation on which the ethical and moral principles of Freemasons are based. Service to humanity, charity, and brotherhood are all values promoted by the Old Testament and embraced by Freemasons. The Old Testament serves not only as a religious text but also as a moral and symbolic guide for Freemasonry, whose teachings help members to conduct themselves in various areas of life and to serve the community. Especially in Freemasonry.
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 Freemasonry’s symbolic rugs, known as “tapestries,” often originate from the Old Testament.
Freemasonry rugs are not interior design items, but symbolic tools. These rugs are used in lodges, primarily for educational purposes. The tapestry is a painted or printed image filled with Masonic symbols. Freemasonry rugs, known as “tapestries,” became widespread in the 18th century, especially in England and France. Previously, they were often made of parchment or canvas. Subsequently, hand-painted or printed rugs and boards also became widespread.
An introduction to Freemasonry states: “At the beginning of a Masonic lodge meeting, a square carpet is spread on the floor—on the mosaic floor, whose alternating black and white tiles symbolize the complementary nature of the two cosmic principles: positivity and negativity.” These rugs are known as “tapestries” in Masonic literature. During initiation ceremonies, the rugs are used as teaching aids. The lodge master uses them to explain the meaning of the various symbols to the candidate. In general, the rugs are placed in the center of the lodge for the different rites. There are several types of rugs, including first-, second, and third-degree rugs; each degree has its own kind.
The various Masonic rites (e.g., the York, Preston-Webb, or Scottish rites) are based on symbolic tools. Their purpose is to promote the moral, spiritual, and social development of individuals. In every country and in every rite, philosophical principles are conveyed through symbols. These symbols are identical in principle, but their representation may vary. In addition to the symbols presented in our article, there are many others, though they are less well known. Each masonry tool—such as the plumb bob or the trowel—represents a human quality or moral principle: the water level represents equality, the plumb bob represents honesty, and the trowel represents brotherhood or peace. During rituals, symbols become not only visible but also perceptible. In this way, during initiation, the candidate not only learns but also “experiences” the principles conveyed by the symbols. Different rites use different symbols or emphasize different aspects, but their goals—moral education—are the same. The rites not only serve individual development, but also create community. Joint participation in the rites provides an opportunity to interpret, discuss, and apply the principles together. Each element of Masonic symbols has philosophical and moral significance. Their purpose is to promote individual development. The elements are not only visually present but are also manifested during the rites. In this way, the individual not only understands them but also experiences them. This is how the goal is achieved: to become a better person.
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| International use of symbols
Freemasonry takes different forms across countries, but the basic meanings of its symbols are similar. The square and compass are known as moral compasses in all rites, but their interpretation varies. Here are some examples of the characteristics of certain countries: United Kingdom Among the well-known symbols, the square and compass and the letter G are the most widespread. British Freemasonry is perhaps the most conservative, both in its rituals and in its use of symbols. United States One of the best-known symbols is the all-seeing eye. Although this symbol appears on the US one-dollar bill, it is not known as a Masonic symbol. There are Masonic temples and monuments in many cities. The best known are in Philadelphia, New York, Washington, etc. France One of the most commonly used symbols is the three dots (“∴”) and the motto “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity,” which has been known since the French Revolution. French Freemasonry is strongly linked to the Enlightenment. Germany The use of black-and-white checkerboard flooring and columns (Boaz and Jachin) is well known. German Freemasonry is often associated with the thought of Kant, Goethe, and Lessing. Brazil The sun and star motifs are well known, and Freemasonry played an important role in Brazilian society. For example, some aspects of the Brazilian flag are inspired by Freemasonry. Hungary As Freemasonry appeared in Hungary in the 1770s, mainly under Austrian influence, the German interpretations of the symbols are best known. In the 19th century, especially during the Reform Era and the Dual Monarchy, Freemasonry underwent significant development. Hungarian Freemasons actively participated in social reforms, thus expanding the symbols with national content. The crown, the historical coat of arms, appeared in the visual representations of Hungarian lodges.
It can be said that symbols originating in the Old Testament are found practically everywhere in the world. |
The three lights. The flames symbolize light, knowledge, and moral enlightenment. The three lights represent the lodge’s three primary sources of light: the Sun, the Moon, and the Master. The symbolism of the three lights also reflects the development of the human soul and the search for inner enlightenment.
Noah’s ark and the anchor are symbols of a life well lived. The ark symbolizes the journey through the stormy seas of life, while the anchor symbolizes immortality and safe rest in eternal peace. The ark represents the journey, while the anchor symbolizes its end and the thing that keeps us safe during the trip.
Masonic Word referred to the tribe of Reuben, Jacob’s firstborn son, during the opening of the lodges. According to this, Reuben’s strength is needed. The opening of Masonic lodges is a symbolic and ritual event that is part of Masonic traditions and spirituality. The opening ceremony usually includes the seating of the lodge officers, prayer or meditation, the placement of symbols and tools, and the official announcement of the lodge’s opening.
The tribe of Simeon, the descendants of Jacob’s second son, symbolize the preparation of the candidate in Freemasonry. It was Simeon’s task to prepare the tools for the slaughter of the Semites.
The term “senior deacon” refers to the position described in the Masonic Word. 
According to Masonic World, the tribe of Zebulun, descendants of Jacob’s sixth son, Zebulun, is symbolized by the prayer recited in Masonic lodges, because Jacob used his prayer and blessing in honor of his brother Isaac. According to the Old Testament, Zebulun’s dwelling place extended “toward the seashore” (Genesis 49:13). According to tradition, they helped Israel establish relations with other peoples through trade. This served to strengthen international relations.
The Masonic altar symbolizes the tribe of Dan, according to the Masonic Word. It shows that one must move quickly toward attaining truth and holiness. The tribe of Dan is descended from Dan, the fifth son of Jacob. The tribe of Dan was often considered a warrior tribe, ready to defend the people of Israel. This is particularly evident in the fact that their territory bordered the Philistines, leading to frequent conflicts.
According to the Masonic Word, Gad refers to the Masonic obligation and the vow made by the judge of Israel, who was a member of this tribe. The obligation is one of the most essential vows in Freemasonry.
According to Masonic Word, the tribe of Asher symbolizes the preservation of the order’s secrets. 
According to Masonic World, the closure of the lodge refers to the tribe of Benjamin. The tribe of Benjamin represents the descendants of Benjamin, Jacob’s twelfth and youngest son. The symbolic significance of the tribe is reinforced by the fact that Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, whom they loved especially. The history of the tribe is often associated with survival, strength, and family loyalty.
The rugs were not only part of the rituals but also represented the values of Freemasonry. Tapestries are often drawn and painted by renowned artists.
Freemasonry symbols basically have moral meanings. Although the symbols are essentially the same across different obediences, their meanings and uses are rich and diverse, just as Freemasonry itself is.
