The Masonic pillars Boaz and Jachin are two foundational symbols within Freemasonry, representing the two immense bronze columns that stood at the porch of King Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. These pillars are not merely decorative but are imbued with profound symbolic meaning central to Masonic teachings and rituals.
Understanding Boaz and Jachin
In virtually every Masonic lodge, columns representing Boaz and Jachin are present, serving as a constant visual reminder of their significance. These pillars are an integral part of the symbolic use of King Solomon's Temple itself, which holds immense importance within Freemasonry as a blueprint for moral and spiritual building.
Historically, the original pillars were crafted by Hiram Abiff, a master craftsman, for King Solomon's Temple. They were placed at the entrance, signifying a threshold between the mundane world and a sacred space.
Symbolism and Significance in Freemasonry
Within Masonic ritual, Boaz and Jachin serve as powerful emblems. They are not just architectural features but active participants in the symbolic narrative of a Mason's journey towards knowledge and self-improvement. Their presence in lodges is emblematic of their use in Masonic ritual, guiding members through various degrees and teachings.
- Strength and Establishment: The names themselves convey the primary symbolic meanings. Boaz, meaning "In strength," or "By strength," signifies the stability, endurance, and fortitude required to support the Masonic edifice. Jachin, meaning "He will establish," or "To establish," represents the divine promise of establishment, permanence, and the secure foundation upon which the craft is built.
- Balance and Harmony: Placed on either side of the entrance, the pillars symbolize the essential balance between opposing forces – strength and stability, mercy and justice, or active and passive principles – necessary for harmony and order.
- Path to Enlightenment: They represent the gateway to the mysteries and truths of Freemasonry, marking the entrance into a sacred space where the pursuit of wisdom and moral virtue takes place. Masons metaphorically pass between these pillars as they advance in their understanding of the craft.
- Cosmic Pillars: Beyond the physical, some interpretations view them as cosmic pillars supporting the heavens, connecting the earthly lodge to divine principles.
Individual Meanings of the Pillars
Each pillar carries its distinct yet complementary meaning:
| Pillar | Transliterated Meaning | Symbolic Significance in Freemasonry |
|---|---|---|
| Boaz | "In strength" or "By strength" | Represents strength, fortitude, endurance, and the necessary power to sustain the Masonic institution and its members. It embodies the stability derived from firm principles. |
| Jachin | "He will establish" or "To establish" | Signifies establishment, permanence, divine establishment, and the eternal nature of the Masonic principles. It represents the foundation upon which knowledge and virtue are built. |
Beyond the Lodge: Cultural Impact
The significance of these biblical and Masonic pillars has occasionally extended beyond the confines of the fraternity. For instance, the incorporated town of Jakin in the U.S. state of Georgia notably takes its name directly from the pillar Jachin, showcasing a lesser-known cultural imprint of these ancient symbols.
For more information on the historical and symbolic context of Boaz and Jachin, you can consult resources such as Wikipedia on Boaz and Jachin.
