Operative Masonry had as its chief objective beauty and symmetry in architecture in the building of King Solomon's Temple; speculative Masonry emphasizes the beauty of character and the virtues of true manhood. Symbolically, Beauty is one of the three supports of the Lodge. It is represented by the Corinthian column, the most beautiful of the ancient Orders in Architecture; also by the Junior Warden, because he symbolizes the meridian sun, the most beautiful object in the heavens. Hiram Abif is represented by the Column of Beauty, because the beauty and glory of the Temple were due to his skill. ( Psalms 149:4 - Ezekiel 16:14 - Peter 1:3-5 )
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See also Architecture
Biblical References:
Psalms 149:4
For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.
Ezekiel 16:14
And thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty: for it was perfect through my comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord GOD.
Peter 1:3-5
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
~~ooOoo~~
This page is adapted from the Glossary at Phoenixmasonry — Used with permission.
