The Plum: A Symbol of Moral Uprightness and Spiritual Aspiration in Freemasonry

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that has been around for centuries, steeped in traditions and symbolism. One of the most important symbols in the craft is the plum, which represents moral uprightness and spiritual aspiration. In this blog post, we will explore the meaning and significance of the plum in masonry.

Origins of the Plum

The plum, also known as the plumb, is a tool that has been used in construction for thousands of years. Its primary function is to ensure that walls and other vertical structures are straight and true. In the context of masonry, the plum is a symbol of moral and spiritual rectitude, or being upright in character and conduct.

The plum has been a part of masonry for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. In Egyptian mythology, the god Thoth was often depicted holding a plumb line, which represented the balance and harmony of the universe. The Greeks also used the plumb line in their construction projects, as did the Romans.

Symbolism of the Plum

In Freemasonry, the plum is one of the working tools used by the Entered Apprentice, the first degree of initiation. It is also one of the three principal symbols of the degree, along with the square and the level. The plum represents the moral and spiritual principles that the Entered Apprentice is expected to cultivate, namely, honesty, integrity, and uprightness.

The plum is also associated with the idea of self-improvement and personal growth. Just as the plumb line is used to ensure that a wall is straight and true, so too must the Entered Apprentice strive to align their thoughts, words, and actions with the principles of masonry. The plum is a reminder that the path to spiritual enlightenment is not always easy, but it is necessary for the growth and development of the individual.

The plum is also a symbol of balance and harmony. In masonry, balance is achieved by seeking equilibrium between the opposing forces of good and evil, light and darkness, and order and chaos. The plum reminds us that we must strive for balance in our own lives, and that we must always be mindful of the consequences of our actions.

The Plum in Ritual and Ceremony

The plum is an important part of masonic ritual and ceremony. During the initiation of an Entered Apprentice, the candidate is presented with the plum as one of the working tools of the degree. The Master then explains the symbolism of the plum, and how it represents the moral and spiritual principles that the candidate is expected to cultivate.

In some masonic jurisdictions, the plum is also used in the construction of the lodge itself. It is placed at the east end of the lodge room, where it serves as a reminder of the importance of uprightness and moral rectitude.

The plum is also used in other masonic ceremonies, such as the laying of cornerstones for new buildings. In this context, the plum is used to ensure that the cornerstone is laid in a straight and true manner, and to symbolize the moral and spiritual foundation upon which the building is being constructed.

Conclusion

The plum is a powerful symbol in Freemasonry, representing moral and spiritual rectitude, self-improvement, balance and harmony. It is an important part of masonic ritual and ceremony, and is used in the construction of lodges and other buildings. As with all symbols in masonry, the plum is intended to inspire and instruct the individual in their pursuit of spiritual growth and personal development. By striving for the principles represented by the plum, the mason can hope to become a better person, and to contribute to the betterment