Two Pillars Guarding the Temple of King Solomon
The enigmatic world of Freemasonry is steeped in symbols and allegories, with countless layers of meaning waiting to be discovered by its members. Among the many symbols that have captivated the minds of Freemasons throughout history, the two pillars guarding the Temple of King Solomon hold a unique and intriguing position.
But what is it about these colossal structures that has managed to capture the collective imagination of Masons for centuries? Why do they hold such a prominent place in the Masonic teachings and rituals?
We will embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries surrounding the two pillars of Boaz and Jachin, delving into their historical origins, their connection to the enigmatic architect Hiram Abiff, and the myriad interpretations of their symbolic significance within the fascinating world of Freemasonry.
Prepare to be enlightened as we explore the hidden depths of this captivating Masonic symbol, and reveal the profound insights it has to offer.
The Pillars of Boaz and Jachin
At the heart of the King Solomon’s Temple story, the two towering pillars of Boaz and Jachin hold a significant place in Masonic symbolism. According to the Bible, these majestic pillars were made of copper, brass, or bronze and stood prominently on the porch of Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem. Crafted with exceptional skill, the pillars represented not only an architectural marvel but also carried profound spiritual meaning.
The Bible attributes the construction of these pillars to a craftsman named Hiram, who is an essential figure in Masonic teachings. This Hiram is none other than Hiram Abiff, the revered architect of King Solomon’s Temple. Romano-Jewish scholar Josephus revealed that the pillar of Boaz stood on the left at the entrance of the temple, while Jachin stood on the right.
Boaz and Jachin were no ordinary pillars, as their dimensions were truly awe-inspiring. The Bible describes them as being nearly six feet thick and almost 27 feet tall. Unfortunately, these magnificent pillars did not survive the destruction of the first temple, and no records indicate that they were ever replaced when the second temple was built.
The names of the pillars, Boaz and Jachin, hold significant meaning as well. Boaz translates to “in him is strength,” while Jachin means “he will establish”. When taken together, these names serve as a reminder that God would establish the temple and the worship of His name in strength. Through the work of Hiram Abiff, the pillars of Boaz and Jachin came to symbolize the strength and stability of God’s promises and showcased the remarkable craftsmanship of this central Masonic figure.
Hiram Abiff and The Construction of King Solomon’s Temple
The story of King Solomon’s Temple would be incomplete without the mention of its premier architect, Hiram Abiff. Hiram Abiff is introduced in the Bible as a skilled bronze worker brought to King Solomon from Tyre. He was the son of a widow from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre (1 Kings 7:13-15). Hiram Abiff was endowed with wisdom, understanding, and exceptional skill in bronze work, which made him an invaluable asset in the construction of the temple.
The tragic story of Hiram Abiff’s murder is an essential component of Masonic teachings. He was brutally murdered within the temple he designed by three thugs who sought to extract the secret passwords of the Master Masons. Hiram’s unwavering fidelity and determination to protect the craft’s secrets led to his demise, but his actions left a lasting impact on Freemasonry.
The themes of the Hiramic allegory, derived from Hiram Abiff’s story, emphasize the importance of fidelity and the certainty of death.
Hiram Abiff’s craftsmanship is evident in the two pillars, Boaz and Jachin, that he constructed for King Solomon’s Temple. The Bible provides a detailed description of these pillars, including their dimensions, the intricate designs on their capitals, and the lily-work that adorned their tops (1 Kings 7:15-22). The intricate and complex nature of these pillars is a testament to Hiram Abiff’s talent and skill as an architect and artisan.
Through the story of Hiram Abiff and the construction of King Solomon’s Temple, Freemasonry derives vital lessons on loyalty, dedication, and the inevitability of death. The pillars of Boaz and Jachin, as Hiram Abiff’s crowning achievements, stand as enduring symbols of these teachings and the exceptional craftsmanship that he brought to the construction of the temple.
Significance of The Pillars’ Names and Their Representation
The names of the pillars, Boaz and Jachin, carry deep meaning and are of vital importance in understanding their representation in Masonic teachings. As mentioned, Boaz means “in him is strength,” while Jachin signifies “he will establish.” When considered together, these names symbolize the idea that God would establish the temple and the worship of His name in strength.
It also highlights the significance of the pillars in representing the strength and stability of God’s promises, serving as a reminder of Hiram Abiff’s exceptional craftsmanship. The pillars are not only a testament to Hiram’s skill but also hold profound spiritual and symbolic meaning within Freemasonry.
Freemasons see the pillars of Boaz and Jachin as representations of the pairs of opposites, often associated with Eastern philosophy. It suggests that this concept teaches Masons to balance the opposing forces of their own nature by aligning their thoughts, feelings, and actions with the grand plan. The pillars also represent the dichotomy of light and dark or life and death, suggesting that death is sometimes necessary to remove something old and hindering to pave the way for the new and thriving.
The various interpretations of the pillars’ symbolism demonstrate their multifaceted importance within Masonic teachings. While their exact meaning may differ among individual Masons, the central theme of the pillars as representations of dualities and a testament to Hiram Abiff’s craftsmanship remains constant. Ultimately, the pillars of Boaz and Jachin serve as enduring symbols in Freemasonry, standing as powerful reminders of the values and lessons derived from the story of King Solomon’s Temple and its premier architect, Hiram Abiff.
The Significance of The Pillars Within Freemasonry
The pillars of Boaz and Jachin hold a prominent place in Masonic symbolism and teachings. They serve as a reminder to Freemasons of the crucial role Hiram Abiff played in the construction of King Solomon’s Temple. The pillars also embody symbolic meanings that transcend their historical and architectural significance.
One prominent theory within Freemasonry, is that the pillars represent the pairs of opposites, an idea rooted in Eastern philosophy. This concept teaches Masons to balance opposing forces within their own nature by aligning their thoughts, feelings, and actions with a grand plan.
The pillars are often considered to symbolize the dichotomy of light and dark or life and death. This understanding emphasizes the idea that death can sometimes be necessary to remove something old and hindering, allowing for the emergence of the new and thriving.
As Brother H.L. Haywood’s description of the significance of the pillars as a “hush of awe” that surrounds the soul as it ascends to the upper room of the spirit. This perspective emphasizes the sense of wonder and mystery that the pillars inspire within Freemasonry.
Brother Robert Palazzo offers another interpretation, stating that the pillars represent the unity of two essential Masonic principles: Jachin, which typifies the Unity resulting from being, and Boaz, which typifies the Unity resulting from love. According to Palazzo, this dual unity serves as the key to spiritual evolution.
The symbolism of the pillars within Freemasonry transcends their architectural grandeur, embodying complex philosophical ideas and spiritual lessons. While their significance may vary among individual Masons, the pillars of Boaz and Jachin consistently serve as powerful reminders of the central role of Hiram Abiff in the construction of King Solomon’s Temple and the enduring values of the Masonic tradition.
Interpretations of The Pillars in Freemasonry
While the exact meaning of the pillars may differ among individual Masons, their central role in conveying the story of Hiram Abiff and the construction of King Solomon’s Temple remains constant.
- Pairs of Opposites: One prominent interpretation in Freemasonry, as mentioned, is that the pillars represent the pairs of opposites, a concept rooted in Eastern philosophy. This idea encourages Masons to balance opposing forces within their own nature by aligning their thoughts, feelings, and actions with a higher purpose.
- Light and Dark, Life and Death: The pillars symbolize the dichotomy of light and dark, or life and death. This understanding highlights the idea that death can sometimes be necessary to remove something old and hindering, allowing for the emergence of the new and thriving.
- The Unity of Masonic Values: Brother Robert Palazzo offers another interpretation, stating that the pillars represent the unity of two essential Masonic principles: Jachin, which typifies the Unity resulting from being, and Boaz, which typifies the Unity resulting from love. According to Palazzo, this dual unity serves as the key to spiritual evolution.
- Awe and Wonder: As Brother H.L. Haywood’s description of the significance of the pillars as a “hush of awe” that surrounds the soul as it ascends to the upper room of the spirit. This perspective emphasizes the sense of wonder and mystery that the pillars inspire within Freemasonry.
