Blazing Star

The Blazing Star, which is not, however, to be confused with the Five-Pointed Star, is one of the most important symbols of

Freemasonry, and makes its appearance in several degrees 

It is the first and most exalted object that demands our attention in the Lodge.

It undoubtedly derives this importance, first, from the repeated use

that is made of it as a Masonic emblem; and secondly, from its great antiquity as a symbol derived from older systems.

Extensive as has been the application of this symbol in the Masonic ceremonies, it is not surprising that there has been a great difference of opinion in relation to its true signification.

But this difference of opinion has been almost entirely confined to its use in the First Degree. In the higher Degrees, where there has

been less opportunity of innovation, the uniformity of meaning attached to the Star has been carefully preserved.

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 the Freemason, who, by perfecting himself in the way of truth, that

is to say, by advancing in 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 given 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.

When, however, we refer to Ancient Craft Freemasonry, we shall find a considerable diversity in the application of this symbol.

In the earliest monitors, immediately after the revival of 1717, the Blazing Star is not mentioned, but it was not long before it was introduced. In the instructions of 1735 it is detailed as a part of the furniture of a Lodge, with the explanation that the "Mosaic Pavement is the Ground Floor of the Lodge, the Blazing Star, the Center, and the Indented Tarsal, the Border round about it!''

In a primitive Tracing Board of the Entered Apprentice,  the Blazing Star occupied a prominent position in the center of the Tracing Board,  it represented BEAUTY, and was called the glory in the center.

In the lectures credited to Dunckerley, and adopted by the Grand Lodge, the Blazing Star was mid to represent "the star which led the wise men to Bethlehem, proclaiming to mankind the nativity of the Son

of God, and here conducting our spiritual progress to the Author of our redemption.”

In the Prestonian lecture, the Blazing Star, with the Mosaic Pavement and the Tessellated 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 Mount Sinai, when the rays of His divine glory shone so bright that none could behold it without fear and trembling. It also reminds us of the omnipresence of the Almighty, overshadowing us with His divine love, and dispensing His blessings amongst us; and by its being placed in the centre, 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."

In America  (now abandoned), the Blazing Star is said to be

"emblematical of that Prudence which ought to appear conspicuous in

the conduct of every Mason; and is more especially commemorative of the star which appeared in the east to guide the wise men to

Bethlehem, and proclaim the birth and the presence of the Son of God.

In Europe, freemasons believe it is no matter whether the figure of which the Blazing Star forms the centre be a square, triangle, or circle, it still represents the sacred name of God, as an universal spirit who enlivens our hearts, who purifies our reason, who increases our knowledge, and who makes us wiser and better men.