The Plumb and Plumb-line

Within the Degrees are found references to the plumb and plumb-line as instruments of particular significance to the Mason. As one of the earliest and simplest instruments used in construction, the plumb and its line were an essential tool of the stone mason. As the level was to insure evenness of a surface, the plumb was to insure perpendicularity and right angles to that surface.

By attaching a weight to one end of a string and lifting the weight off the ground using the other end of the string, and holding it steady, a simple plumb is an instrument of amazing accuracy. From homes to cathedrals, this simple tool has pointed the way upward and indicated the straightness needed to obtain perfection. And so it is that this tool was taken from the operative mason to the speculative mason as a symbol of rectitude of conduct, undeviating uprightness, and constant integrity required to build a spiritual temple reflecting the best of one's efforts.

The Junior Warden is responsible for the conduct of his Brethren and, as his working tool, the plumb is a constant reminder of his need to be attentive to rectitude. Charged to watch during the hours of refreshment, the Junior Warden must watch with care. Between work and refreshment lie many opportunities to deviate in conduct.

The concept of an immortal life is that of one above, or one that rises above this earthly sphere. Hence verticality, or perpendicularity, is an essential direction toward personal improvement or achievement. The early weights were lead, a base metal, and can be seen as indicating the baseness of life and the need to move upward to a better life. To move along a straight path in life and be unwavering in one's conduct is each Brother's challenge. So, it is that when you hold a plumb and plumb-line in your hand, you hold a working tool of Masonry. Between the baseness below and the Light above, lies a straight and narrow path which, if followed with integrity and uprightness, will lead you to "that Temple, not made with Hands, eternal in the heavens". Always chose well.