It is a symbol of that fraternal equality which recognizes the fatherhood of God, and the brotherhood of man.
In Freemasonry, the Level is a symbol of equality; not of that social equality which would destroy all distinctions of rank and position, and beget confusion, insubordination, and anarchy; but of that fraternal equality which, recognizing the Fatherhood of God, admits as a necessary corollary the Brotherhood of Man. It, therefore, teaches us that, in the sight of the Grand Architect of the Universe, his creatures, who are at an immeasurable distance from him, move upon the same plane; as the far-moving stars, which though millions of miles apart, yet seem to shine upon the same canopy of the sky. In this view, the Level teaches us that all men are equal, subject to the same infirmities, hastening to the same goal, redeemed by the same Saviour, subject to the same death and judgement. The Level is deemed, like the Square and the Plumb, of so much importance as a symbol, that it is repeated in many different relations. First, it is one of the jewels of the Lodge; in the English system a moveable, in the American an immoveable, one. This leads to its being adopted as the proper official ensign of the Senior Warden, because the Craft when at labour, at which time he presides over them, are on a common level of subordination. And then it is one of the working tools of a Fellow Craft, still retaining its symbolism of equality. — ( Matthew 5:16 - 1 Peter 2:17 )
Biblical References
Matthew 5:16
In the same way let your light shine in front of people. Then they will see the good that you do and praise your Father in heaven.
1 Peter 2:17
Honor everyone. Love your brothers and sisters in the faith. Fear God. Honor the emperor.
~~ooOoo~~
This page is adapted from the Glossary at Phoenixmasonry — Used with permission.
