Three Things You Probably Didn’t Know About the Point Within a Circle in Freemasonry
One of the most common and widely used Masonic symbols is the point within a circle. You might even understand what it means and why it is used within Masonic allegory and teachings. But do you know about its ancient origins? Are you privy to the fact that two Masonic saints are represented within the symbol? Let’s take a look at three things you probably didn’t know about the Masonic point within a circle.
As always, this writing is not an expression of the official views of the Freemasons Community, but simply the reflections of one Co-Mason. We do not condone or attempt to reveal the any of the secret practices and rituals of Freemasonry.
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1. It has its origins in ancient Egyptian carvings
The point within a circle isn’t the only Masonicsymbol to have its origins in the ancient civilizations. In ancient Egyptian carvings, the point within a circle formed an integral part of the Alpha and Omega symbols and was used as a representation of a deity. Within these carvings, the two lines that sit aside the circle were represented as snakes, indicating the presence of the underworld alongside God.
2. Both John the Evangelist and John the Baptist are represented in the symbol
As many brothers will know, John the Evangelist and John the Baptist are both patron saints of Freemasonry. This stems from the fact that the original mother lodge in Jerusalem [the Lodge of St. John] is dedicated to them both. In the point within a circle, John the Baptist is represented by the line on the left, and John the Evangelist is represented by the line on the right. This is a reminder to Masons that either side of God [the point], are two righteous men that encourage others to live in a way that is moral and just.
3. The symbol is also said to represent the harvest
Another way of looking at the point within a circle is as a representation of the harvest. As we know, the time of the harvest is when seeds are bountiful and men can enjoy the fruits of their labor. It is the fact that the harvest is a cause for celebration after a long period of sacrifice that is significant to Masons, as it is seen to represent the journey that brothers undertake in order to become better men through Masonry.
Conclusion.
The point within a circle is one of the most widely used and understood symbols within Freemasonry. However, as with every Masonic symbol, when you scratch the surface a little, you’re likely to discover some further explanations that reveal why the symbol forms an integral part of the Masonic teachings that we explore today.
