The Compasses

In school geometry, the compass is an instrument used for drawing circles, erecting perpendiculars, and measuring distances. Along with the straight edge, the compass is used to discover and verify many basic theorems dealing with properties of circles, triangles, and figures in the plane. Construction and design were at the heart of the ancients investigations of truth and beauty.

But the Freemason frequently finds the term "compasses", rather than the familiar term "compass" and asks why the plural form instead of the singular. Even the expression "pair of compasses" is used for a compass, which seems to infer "two" compasses!

To begin, the compass is constructed of two equal legs and, when set at a fixed distance apart, can be used to draw circles and measure distance in "strides" or arcs along a curve or line. This second use is particularly useful to map makers, mariners, and early masons laying out their designs.

Looking to the ancients we find the early word was "compassus" and "compassas", which would give some explanation to the "compasses" we use, but more important it is the two legs which underlie our use of the term we use. A speculative consideration finds that the steps, or strides, in a journey would represent the journey expected of each Freemason. The "mariner on the pathless ocean" relies upon the circles of his journey, seeking home and a safe end to his voyage.

There are frequent symbols of a point within a circle, easily drawn using the compasses which teach the familiar lessons of bounded passions and the admonitions found within the extended points of the compasses. These charges mark the steps we take each day and remind us to stay close to our moral and spiritual challenges to be better men and Masons. It is a journey that marks our path to that Great Temple we all seek.