The Meaning of Masonic Symbols – The Working Tools Series

The Level

By Steve McCall
Primary References: Daniel Sickles, The General Ahiman Rezon; William Harvey, The Emblems of Freemasonry

The meaning of the Level – Finding your true moral line of conduct.

Brethren, as we continue to build our spiritual temple, we must ensure the foundation is not only perpendicular but also perfectly horizontal. Today, we examine the Level—the tool that defines our relationship with every other human being.

Our monitors and manuals teach us that: "The Level is an instrument used by operative masons to prove horizontals. But Free and Accepted masons make far more use of it by squaring our actions by the Square of Virtue."

Insights from the Masonic Classic Authors

Daniel Sickles in The General Ahiman Rezon, states: "The symbols of those instruments used by architects are unknown to common observers... but Free and Accepted Masons recognize them as emblems of certain moral principles and religious duties, which, if followed out as they should be, would render all men valuable members of society. The Level is an emblem of equality; and reminds us that, in the sight of GOD, all men are equal; that He causes the sun to shine on the poor man's cottage, as well as on the king's palace."

Sickles’ poignant phrase, "if followed as they should be," serves as a warning. We are not better men simply because we have been through the ritual; we only improve if we integrate these symbols into our character.

William Harvey in The Emblems of Freemasonry, adds that the Level "demonstrates that we are descended from the same stock, partakers of the same nature and sharers of the same hope. Although distinctions among men are necessary to preserve subordination, and to reward merit and ability, no eminence of station should make us forget that we are all brethren."

"Mankind has always placed others into convenient hierarchies. The Level reminds us that these distinctions are man-made and temporal. Since the Supreme Architect treats all the same, it is our calling to emulate that attitude and treat everyone 'on the Level'."

Action to take this week:

This week, identify a person or group you have placed into a specific category—perhaps because of their religion, politics, or appearance. Find a way to interact with them, even if you disagree with their views. Find a common activity, listen, and learn. Treat them on the level and see how it shifts your own perspective.