Okay, I like that answer, however then why are the Compasses brought more and more to the foreground as you are work through the 3 degrees? Ergo, more and more legs showing? Would that not indicate that they are of more importance?Fascinating question Bro. Max!
Could it be that the Compasses are not included because they are not the tools of a Master? But rather an Apprentice?
One would think that if an Apprentice learns to make a perfect square by using a simple tool such as the Compasses, a Master can certainly make a perfect circle with a Square!
The Compasses were used not only in design of a structure, but they were also used to check the work done by the Craftsman. They weren't used during the actual building from what I've learned so far. I may be off base, but this is an earnest attempt to answer the question.
.... Ergo, more and more legs showing? Would that not indicate that they are of more importance?[/QUOTE]
I think you are on the right track!
Because they are in the background and not visible to symbolize the work to be done. When the Craftsman has mastered his work, they become visible? Again, using the Compasses to evaluate the finished work.Okay, I like that answer, however then why are the Compasses brought more and more to the foreground as you are work through the 3 degrees? Ergo, more and more legs showing? Would that not indicate that they are of more importance?
Or does the SQ represent our baser selves and as we work through the degrees we subdue it with reason and logic?Because they are hidden to symbolize the work to be done. When the Craftsman has mastered his work, they become visible?
Yes ... but the Compass is not part of the 'opertive' Working Tools: Why and What is the symbolism? Who uses the Compass?Because they are hidden to symbolize the work to be done. When the Craftsman has mastered his work, they become visible?
Again, The Craftsman uses them to check his work, They are not part of the actual construction. They Scribe a moral circle in which the apprentice learns to work within. The other tools are used throughout the building process.Yes ... but the Compass is not part of the 'opertive' Working Tools: Why and What is the symbolism? Who uses the Compass?
Could be a little of both. I like your answer.Or does the SQ represent our baser selves and as we work through the degrees we subdue it with reason and logic?
The plumb Rule, Square & Level are evaluation tools too!Again, The Craftsman uses them to check his work, They are not part of the actual construction. They Scribe a moral circle in which the apprentice learns to work within. The other tools are used throughout the building process.
The are an evaluation tool, not a Working Tool. Think about your entrance into the fraternity. what was the first thing you were taught?
LOL This getting good...The plumb Rule, Square & Level are evaluation tools too!
".... what was the first thing you were taught? ..." .... Hummm ,,, yes, but that was a lecture on what the Compass (3 G.L.) were to do; not instructions for the EA to use that implement. ... The same as the mention of the HB (3 G.L.) was not instruction for the EA go out and be a preacher. The EA has not been trained to use it. ..... I know, i just muddied up the waters. ..... LOL
I had 3/4's of the answer. Not bad considering I'm functioning on only four hours of sleep. I didn't think about the Skirrit I highlighted in your comment. LOLNow you are on the right track. ... IMHO .... The Compass is the Tool of the 'Master' or Master Architect and not a Working Tool of the Operative Mason (EA or FC). Due to its size the Compass has limited use and little benefit operative works. It is the Skirrit, in lieu of the Compass, that is used by the MM to layout on the ground the intended structure.
that is why i posted the question here. ... To see if there could be another explanation and if I might have missed anything. ... It only took me an hour to write that.I think you just gave me the topic for our M/E at my Lodge next stated...
It's easy to get tunnel vision when working the Preston-Webb. I wonder how many Brethren would find that question to have a quick and easy answer.
I knew about the Skirrit, and for some reason, I didn't think to include it in the equation. I'm a first year MM, so I wonder if the answer is actually a simple one for more experienced Masons.
I didn't word my answers as well as you, but I came to a similar (albeit not as complete) answer as you did. I figured it out in a few minutes, so either I did very well, or it's an easy answer!that is why i posted the question here. ... To see if there could be another explanation and if I might have missed anything. ... It only took me an hour to write that.
I might add this to the end:
The HB is given us as a Ruling guide for our Faith in practice. The HB is our Law.
The Square, to square our actions toward all mankind. The Square is also the symbol & symbolic of the Worshipful Master, therefore he is the earthly (or Lodge) Judge.
The Compass to Circumscribe our desires ....; The Compass being the symbolic final judgment by the GAOTU.