Overview & Ritual Context in British Freemasonry
Situated at the centre of the chequered black-and-white Mosaic Pavement or within the Tessellated Border of the Lodge, the Blazing Star represents Divine Providence, the sun enlightening the earth, and prudent conduct amidst the shifting fortunes of human life.
Primary Historical & Ritual Citations
- William Hutchinson, The Spirit of Masonry (1775): links the Blazing Star to Prudence and the Star in the East.
- First Degree Lecture, Section 4 (Emulation): identifies the Mosaic Pavement, the Blazing Star, and the Indented or Tessellated Border as the three Ornaments of the Lodge.
The Three Ornaments of the Lodge
In English Craft ritual, a Lodge has three Ornaments: (1) The Mosaic Pavement, chequered in black and white to illustrate the diversity of objects in creation and how our steps tread through alternating prosperity and adversity; (2) The Blazing Star (or Glory in the Centre), reminding us of the Sun that enlightens the earth and the blessings of Divine Providence; and (3) The Indented or Tessellated Border, representing the planets in their revolutions around the sun.
Connected Masonic Orders & Degrees
Craft Freemasonry
Craft Freemasonry (often referred to as Blue Lodge Masonry) forms the foundation of all Masonic membership in the United Kingdom, comprising the three ceremonies of Entered Apprentice (First Degree), Fellowcraft (Second Degree), and Master Mason (Third Degree).
Rose Croix (18th to 33rd Degree)
Known internationally as the Scottish Rite and in England & Wales as the Ancient and Accepted Rite (or simply 'Rose Croix'), this Order governs the 4th to the 33rd Degrees. Candidates have the 4th to 17th Degrees conferred by name before being perfected in the 18th Degree (Sovereign Prince Rose Croix).
Interconnected Symbols in the Masonic Knowledge Graph
Square and Compasses
The Square and Compasses is the universal emblem of speculative Freemasonry. Conjoined together, the stonemason's try-square represents morality, fairness, and earthly conduct ('squaring our actions'), whilst the compasses represent spiritual boundaries, moderation, and self-restraint.
All-Seeing Eye of Providence
Often surrounded by an equilateral triangle or a burst of solar glory, the All-Seeing Eye (or Eye of Providence) is an ancient Renaissance and Biblical emblem adopted by 18th-century Freemasons to remind Brethren that every thought, word, and action is observed by the Great Architect of the Universe.
Masonic Tracing Boards
Unique in their richness to British and Commonwealth Freemasonry, Tracing Boards are painted architectural and symbolic canvases displayed in the Lodge room during each of the three Craft Degrees to illustrate the historical lectures.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Blazing Star
How many points does the Masonic Blazing Star have?
In English Craft temples and on the Grand Temple ceiling at Great Queen Street, the Blazing Star in the centre of the pavement or tracing board typically has either five, seven, or eight radiated points of golden light.