The Square
Two arms at a true right angle, used to test work: the emblem of morality, and the jewel of the Worshipful Master.
Also called: the Master's jewel
What it means
A Fellowcraft working tool, and one of the three great lights of the Lodge. The operative mason used it to test whether a stone was cut true; the lesson is to square actions by the square of virtue.
Hung alone from a collar it is the jewel of the Worshipful Master, the one officer who presides over the Lodge. As an officer's jewel it is worn by whoever holds the office, not by anyone who likes the shape.
In context: The Working Tools of Freemasonry, Explained
Related Lodge offices: Worshipful Master
Frequently asked questions
What does the Square mean in Freemasonry?
Two arms at a true right angle, used to test work: the emblem of morality, and the jewel of the Worshipful Master.
Who can wear the Square?
As a working tool on a print or gift it implies nothing. As a jewel hung from an officer's collar it belongs to the Worshipful Master during his term, and is the Lodge's property rather than his.
Sources
Drawn from the published monitors and from what the bodies concerned publish about themselves. Nothing here comes from, or goes beyond, any obligated material.
- Thomas Smith Webb, The Freemason's Monitor; or, Illustrations of Masonry (1797)
- William Preston, Illustrations of Masonry (1772)