There is a long-standing tradition of Freemasons revering Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. This reverence is based on a variety of factors, including the star's historical and mythological significance, its alignment with certain Masonic symbols, and its association with the concept of enlightenment.
Historical Significance and Mythology
The reverence for Sirius dates back to ancient Egypt, where the star was associated with the goddess Isis, the mother of Horus and a symbol of life, rebirth, and wisdom. Egyptians believed that Sirius was the celestial counterpart of the Nile River, which flooded annually, bringing life to the land.
In Greek mythology, Sirius was associated with Orion, a powerful hunter who was killed by the scorpion Scorpius. The two stars are often depicted together in artwork, and their alignment in the night sky is known as the "Scorpio-Orion complex."
Alignment with Masonic Symbols
The Masonic reverence for Sirius is also based on the star's alignment with certain Masonic symbols. For example, Sirius is often associated with the compass, which is a symbol of wisdom and discernment. It is also associated with the ladder, which is a symbol of spiritual ascent and enlightenment.
Association with Enlightenment
The association of Sirius with enlightenment is perhaps the most significant reason for its reverence among Freemasons. The star is often seen as a symbol of the higher spiritual knowledge that Masons seek to attain. It is believed that Sirius is a gateway to the spiritual realm and that by contemplating the star, Masons can open themselves to greater understanding and wisdom.
In addition to these factors, the reverence for Sirius is also reinforced by various Masonic rituals and symbols. For example, the Star of David, which is a six-pointed star, is often used in Masonic ceremonies and is said to represent the six-pointed star of Sirius.
Conclusion
The reverence for Sirius among Freemasons is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is rooted in a variety of historical, mythological, and symbolic factors. While the exact nature of this reverence is open to interpretation, it is clear that Sirius plays an important role in Masonic cosmology and symbolism.