What’s Hidden Within the Journey of the Winding Staircase. By.·. Bro. Bradrick A. Joyner Doric Lodge N°140, F&AM In the teachings of the second degree our attention is drawn toward a flight of 15 winding steps. These steps are then divided into sets of 3, 5, and 7. The basis of these steps is self-improvement. The journey of climbing the steps symbolizes our progress towards perfection. Much can be said of each individual step. The first three represent the degrees of Masonry, and the officers of the Lodge. They also hold a special place in the steps as a reminder of the important role Masonry plays in this progress. We have come to the bottom of these steps symbolically in search of more Light. Masonry, being the first set is the place to which which we have naturally arrived. Thus, is the foundation for our journey. The second set of steps allude to the five human senses. Also, to five distinct pillar styles. The meaning of which is perfecting ourselves through understanding and self-control of our physical bodies. These are the more practical aspects of everyday living. Finally, seven steps remain between us and the summit. These have a specific reference to the seven liberal arts and sciences. These arts and sciences are then divided into two groups. The first group consisting of three steps are known as the trivium and are said by Aristotle to be the mastery of language. Grammar, logic, and rhetoric. The final four are known as the quadrivium and were first cited by Pythagoras as the laws of nature. Arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy. The relevance of order is most apparent within the final seven steps. Taking a look at the trivium, let us compare it to building a house. First, you must start with a solid foundation and that is mastering grammar and the basics of communication. Secondly, we build the supports, walls, and ceilings just as logic is the means of making cohesiveness with our thoughts through our language. Finally we are left with the decoration and beautification of the house just as rhetoric is the act of eloquently and objectively adorning our communication. When this is achieved, perfection within this spectrum is subsequent. An interesting step back will reveal the Fibonacci sequence through-out the entire allegory of the Winding Staircase. The three divisions of the staircase represent the same three aspects or methods of perfection. You must start with your foundation, That which is Masonry. Next, mastering your interactions with yourself and surroundings is key to being a valid man of recognition in which if we were not, our duties could not be performed. Afterward, we must perfect ourselves through mastery of the seven liberal arts and sciences. This enabling us to beautify our existence and live righteously and comfortably. So the sequence; foundation, support, and beautification are exemplified through the progress of the three divisions of the entire staircase, apply to the completion of each individual step, and to the mastery of each of the three divisions of the staircase. The completion of the winding stairs symbolizes over all perfection and the completion of the journey which brought you to the bottom. A man who can master the stairs does not need any reference to answer any problem within human reason. The stairs, since their fruits of labor are to be applied to the natural world, we can see how and understand why the sacred sequence which is encoded in all living things is also exemplified here. In our work towards that perfect ashlar we are to apply the journey of the steps and all of the teachings from them. Not only will the lessons from each step assist in our perfection but also we are taught by dropping our ego, building a solid foundation, through proper care and assembly, and finally with the adornment that eases and facilitates, we can succeed through all our transactions with mankind.
Posted on: Sun, 07 Jul 2013 12:14:58 +0000
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