The Universal Language of Freemasonry - ArchiMeD - Johannes ...

4.6.12 The Anchor & Ark
Chapter 4 - Signs & Symbols 225
According to Simons' Standard Masonic Monitor from 1888, "[t]he Anchor
and Ark [a]re emblems of a well-grounded hope, and a well-spent life. They are
emblematical of that divine Ark which safely wafts us over this tempestuous sea
of troubles, and that Anchor which shall safely moor us in a peaceful harbor,
where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary shall find rest." 645
As the traditional Ark afforded safety and security from the alldevouring
Deluge to such as were received within its walls, so
Freemasonry offers a sure refuge from the storms of misfortune, which
are often more pitiless than the down-pouring tempests that destroyed
the ancient world. 646
Simons' monitor describes the ark as "a type of that inward tabernacle of
virtue and sublime thoughts which the good man erects within his breast, in
which he dwells in peace [...]." 647 With this, the heart is meant:
The bosom is a temple; - when its altar,
The living heart, is unprofaned and pure,
Its verge is hallowed; none need fear or falter,
Who thither fly. It is an Ark secure,
Opening its gates of peace and joy and love
Like Heaven above. 648
Simons describes the anchor as a symbol of hope in the difficult times of life.
The human heart is the ark, while hope is the anchor of the soul. This is the
relationship of these two symbols. He puts it as follows in metaphorical
language:
645
Simons, p. 138. Illustration taken from Dove, p. 127.
646
Simons, p. 138.
647
Ibid, p. 139.
648
Ibid.