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Geometry, the basis of Freemasonry

Euclid is the father of Geometry and Geometry is the basis on which the superstructure of Masonry is erected.  Therefore, Euclid has a special importance and has had since at least the 1400s when the Regius Poem was written.  Euclid’s the “Stoicheion” or “Elements”, was the most important text on Geometry when modern Freemasonry was formed in the 1600s and 1700s as well as in the preceding centuries.  It was important, both for its explanation of geometry and as a tool for improving the reasoning power and logical thinking of its readers; a use central to the purposes of Masonry.

First Masonic mention of Euclid was in 1400

“Here begin the constitutions of the art of Geometry according to Euclid”.  This is the beginning line of the Regius Poem.  It goes on to state how Euclid’s students began the craft of Masonry in Egypt.  Then how it came to England about the time of King Athelstane’s Reign, which would be about 996 AD. This document is dated between 1390 and 1425.

This story of the beginning of Masonry may be part of the mythology of Freemasonry, but it illustrates how important Geometry is to Masons.  Geometry provides the tools we use in our rational study of the universe and man’s relation to it as well as to each other. 

Why is a rational study of the universe important to Masons?

Studying the universe in a rational way was central to enlightenment thinking in the 17^th and 18^th centuries and is the basis of many lectures found in the ceremonies of Freemasonry.  These lectures provide instructions used by each of us in building our moral and Masonic edifice.  Masons learn to see their lives as “edifices”, based on the Biblical “house not made with hands” and “Temple” analogies.

Using the tools of Geometry

We build with the tools used by architects, but with new uses assigned to them.  Throughout history architects relied on the tools of geometry to design and build their structures.  Remember, this is long before computers and advanced mathematical and engineering tools were available.  Chief among these were the square and compasses.  These became the symbols of Master Masons and continue as symbols of Masonry to this day.

A good example is the square.  Masons refer to it as the “square of virtue”.  You see the word square used this way in “square deal” “square shooter” and “fair and square”.  In Freemasonry, we add “acting upon the square” and “squaring our actions”.  We work to do exactly that.  The other working tools have similar explanations for their uses.

Seeking the light.

Thus, it is that the study of Geometry and an appreciation for Euclid’s role as the Father of Geometry is central to what in Freemasonry is referred to as “seeking light”.  This search never ends.  But, it is a search that has its own rewards in better, more productive and satisfying lives.  We find fulfillment in service to others and lasting and deep friendships, based on common values.

A copy of the Regius Poem in both its original dialect and spelling as well as in modern English, together with an explanation of its history can be found in the archives of the Grand Lodge of British Columbia and the Yukon at Regius Poem

Also, you will find additional information on the subject on this website, under the Geometry heading.