Amber
Masonic Firing Glass
This
amber colored firing glass is covered with Masonic symbolism, most of it is
early European. The cable tow can be seen circling the upper rim with a
"figure 8" pattern, a symbol of eternity. All of the working
tools are present, as well as the Pillars of Boaz and Jachin. The Sun,
Moon and Stars are also clearly seen, as well as the blazing star. The Blazing
Star, which is not, however, to be confounded with the Five-Pointed
Star, is one of the most important symbols in Freemasonry, and makes its
appearance in several of the Degrees. Hutchinson says "It is the
first and most exalted object that demands our attention in the
Lodge." Hence we find that at various times the Blazing Star has
been declared to be a symbol of Divine Providence. In the twenty-eighth
Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, the explanation given of the
Blazing Star, is, that it is symbolic of a true Freemason, who, by perfecting
himself in the way of truth, that is to say, by advancing his knowledge,
becomes like a blazing star, shining with brilliancy in the midst of
darkness. The star is, therefore, in this degree, a symbol of
truth. In the Fourth Degree of the same Rite, the star is again said to
be a symbol of the light of Divine Providence pointing out the way of
truth. In the Ninth Degree this symbol is called the star of
direction; and while it primitively alludes to an especial guidance for a
particular purpose expressed in the degree, it still retains, in a remoter
sense, its usual signification as an emblem of Divine Providence guiding and
directing the pilgrim in his journey through life.
In
the Prestonian lecture, the Blazing Star, with the Mosaic Pavement and the
Tesselated Border, are called the Ornaments of the Lodge, and the Blazing Star
is thus explained:
"The
Blazing Star, or glory in the centre, reminds us of that awful period when the
Almighty delivered the two tables of stone, containing the ten commandments,
to His faithful servant Moses on Mt. Sinai, when the rays of His divine glory
shone so bright that none could behold it without fear and trembling. It
further reminds us, that wherever we may be assembled together, God is in the
midst of us, seeing our actions, and observing the secret intents and
movements of our hearts."
