Point Within A Circle

"Our ancient brethern used the point within a circle as a test for the rectitude of the tools by which they squared their work and built their temporal buildings. In the Speculative sense, we use it as a test for the rectitude of our intentions and our conduct, by which we square our actions with the square of virtue." (Point Within A Circle, The Short Talk Bulletin, vol. IX, No. 8, August 1931, page 9)

Allen Roberts wrote, "No building can be properly built without an accurate square. Our operative brethern used the point to construct the circle. The square was tested for squareness by using a diameter and point on the circle. The knowledge of how to test a square for accuracy was the great secret of the master builder. The great secret of the Speculative Mason is the knowledge of how o use the teachings of the Craft to build a Spiritual Temple so that it will stand the test of time. This symbol becomes a test of our virtue." (The Craft and Its Symbols, page 37)

"Point Within a Circle. Ritualistically, a symbol of control of conduct; a standard of right living." (Pocket Encyclopedia of Masonic Symbols, The Masonic Service Association, page 46)

"A Point within a Circle.
Ritualistically, this is a symbol of control of conduct; a standard of right living. The symbol has an extreme antiquity. Early Egyptian monuments are carved with the Alpha and the Omega or symbol of God in the center of a circle embordered by two upright parallel perpendicular serpents, representing the power and wisdom of the Creator. The symbol apparently came into Masonry from an operative practice, known to but a few Master workmen on Cathedrals and great buildings. Any school boy knows it now; put a dot on a circle anywhere; draw a straight line across the circle through its center; connect the dot with the points at which the line through the center cuts the circle; the result is a perfect square.
This was the Operative Master's great secret -- knowing how to "try the square" It was by this that he tested the working tools of the Fellows of the Craft; did he do so often enough, it was impossible either for their tools or their work "to materially err"." (Excerpted from "Handbook for Candidate's Coaches" By The Committee on Ritual and Donald G. Campbell, Past Grand Lecturer, Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of California)

C. Bruce Hunter wrote, "The point is often said to represent a Mason, and the circle the limits of his duty." (Masonic Dictionary, page 70)

Albert Mackey, "The present signification of the point, within the circle, among Masons, is doubtless comparatively modern, and has superseded the original meaning of this symbol." (Lexicon of Freemasonry, page 364)

The point within a circle. The circle establishes the boundary line beyond which he should not go. Man establishes the dimensions of the circle by the limiting effect of the Holy Scriptures and by the examples of the two great saints, John the Baptist and John the Evanelist.


September 29, 2007