Freemasonry, plumb line, symbolism, internal alignment, spiritual growth, axis of the world, axus mundi, duality of man, moral guide, meditation, spiritual balance
Reader
Abstract
Extract
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Abstract
The plumb line is a significant symbol in Freemasonry, representing the quest for internal alignment and balance between material and spiritual aspects.
Extract
[...] The notion of humility is therefore closely linked to the symbolism of the soil. To lean towards the earth as the plumb line invites us to is a way of reminding us that we are only simple mortals, that 'dust' we will return 'dust'. But it's also a way of inviting us to introspection, to explore our own interiority in a way. The idea of diving inside oneself is an idea that can be found in what is called the reflection chamber: VITRIOL. [...]
[...] Through its role in the lodge and the teachings it inspires, it reveals a precious guide in the initiatic journey proper to every Freemason. This study proposes to explore the multiple facets of this symbol, showing how it expresses the duality of man, pushes for a deep introspection, and illustrates the search for inner alignment. The plumb line is an object that holds great importance in Freemasonry. The plumb line: expression of the duality of man. Let us first recall what a plumb line is where it is used in everyday life, namely on construction sites. [...]
[...] The plumb line can present itself to my eyes as a moral guide. It invites me to recenter myself when I feel lost, seduced by terrestrial deceptions. Etymologically, 'to seduce' comes from 'to lead astray'.seducere » which means in Latin: 'to lead astray'. And indeed, the modern, materialistic, consumerist world can present us with a kind of lure, the promise of an illusory happiness and the plumb line in all its materiality, in all its heavy materiality inflexibly indicates to us the path to follow in a symbolic way, certainly, but very powerful. [...]
[...] Personal reflection on the plumb line Thus, the plumb line presents itself as an architectural tool or a tool used in construction sites, a completely prosaic object. At first glance, it would not present itself as an object that would serve spirituality. It is used to verify the verticality of a construction. It is an object that can therefore present itself as perfectly utilitarian and by no means spiritual. However, beyond its primary function, this object represents a universal quest. [...]
[...] Approaching this stage is to renew one's perception of things. It is thus that one can regain inner peace, happiness and Paradise. It is in this way that one can extinguish within oneself fear, anxiety, and worry. The axis of the world maintains a close link with another fundamental notion, another primordial symbol that is the tree of life. The tree of life is located in the center of the Garden of Eden. It symbolizes the axis of the world in the same way as eternal life, serenity, and innocence. [...]
