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temple, according to the will of Solomon. Moreover this Hiram made two hollow pillars, whose
outsides were of brass, and the thickness of the brass was four fingers breadth, and the height of
the pillars was eighteen cubits, and their circumference twelve cubits; but there was cast, with each
of their chapiters, lily-work that stood upon the pillar, and it was elevated five cubits, round about
which there was net-work interwoven with small palms made of brass, and covered with lily-work.
To this also were hung two hundred pomegranates in two rows. The one of these pillars he set at
the entrance of the porch on the right hand, and called it Jachin, and the other at the left hand, and
called it Boaz.

References to these two great pillars are found in pre-Grand Lodge of England rituals. Their
symbolism is the same today as then. Boaz means “in him is strength” and Jachin, “he shall
establish.” Thus, Boaz signifies strength while Jachin denotes establishment and allude to a
passage of scripture, “In strength will I establish this My house and Kingdom forever.” As Masons,
we should reflect upon the significance of the pillars as we construct our personal values and
morals.

The characteristics of the pillars present important symbolic lessons. The pillars are described in
ornate detail with particular geometric attributes. The details of beauty and geometry are to
encourage us to fully develop our minds regarding the mysteries of nature and the laws of the
universe. Through an improved understanding of our surroundings and the works of nature we
begin to develop a true appreciation for Deity and his mighty creation.

The ornamental detail regarding the network, lily-work and pomegranates denote unity, peace, and
plenty, respectively. While the Biblical account does not provide a clear picture of what the capitals
(chapiters) looked like, it does indicate they were highly ornate. The purpose of the network was
to provide a background and its intricate, interconnected arrangement suggests unity. The lily-
work represents peace, the lily being a symbol of both peace and purity. Peace is a noble attribute
we should strive for in our spiritual relationship with God and as Masons, we should promote
peace between all men. The pomegranates must have been striking with two hundred on each
capital. The pomegranate fruit, due to the exuberance of its seed, is an emblem of plenty, which
was one of its ancient significances.

The explanation of the Fellowcraft Degree in the Masonic ritual provides very similar details of
the two pillars provided in both the Biblical account of I Kings and that of Flavius Josephus.
However, the Masonic ritual alludes to two spherical bodies placed on top of the pillars, which
represent the terrestrial and celestial spheres upon which maps of the features of the earth’s surface
and heavenly bodies were depicted. An account of King Solomon’s Temple in II Chronicles 4: 13
suggests the pillars were topped with bowl-like containers. This Masonic addition, however, does
not distract from the symbolism that together these spherical shapes represent the universality of
Freemasonry.

The Fellowcraft Pillars, as reminders of the two pillars Jachin and Boaz that stood in front of King
Solomon’s Temple, can be studied from two viewpoints. From one viewpoint, the pillars suggest
the massive power, which upholds the universe, provides the laws of nature, and suggests the
eternities of the heavens. Before such a Power, man should bow down and worship, engrave upon

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