From Preston’s “Illustrations of Masonry”
Geometry, the first and noblest of sciences, is the basis on which the superstructure of Masonry is erected. By Geometry, may we curiously trace Nature through her various windings, to the most concealed recesses.
By it we may discover the power, the wisdom, and the goodness of the grand Artificer of the Universe, and view with amazing delight the beautiful proportions which connect and grace this vast machine.
By it we may discover how the planets move in their different orbs, and mathematically demonstrate their various revolutions.
By it we may rationally account for the return of the seasons, and the mixed variety of scenes which they display to the discerning eye.
Numberless worlds are around us, all framed by the same Divine Artist, which roll through the vast expanse, and are all conducted by the same unerring law of nature.
How must we then improve?
With what grand ideas must such knowledge fill our minds; and how worthy is it of the attention of all rational beings.
A survey of nature, and the observation of its beautiful proportions first determined man to imitate the divine plan, and to study symmetry and order.
This gave rise to societies, and birth to every useful art.
The architect began to design, and the plans which he laid down, improved by experience and time, produced some of those excellent works which will be the admiration of future ages. Thus, from the commencement of the world, we may trace the foundation of Masonry.
Ever since order began, and harmony displayed her charms, it has flourished. No art, no science preceded it. In the dark periods of antiquity, when literature was in a low state, and the rude manners of our forefathers withheld from them the knowledge we now so amply share, Masonry began to diffuse her influence.
The mysteries of this science unveiled, arts instantly arose, civilization took place, and the progress of knowledge and philosophy gradually dispelled the gloom of ignorance and barbarism. Government being settled, authority was given to laws, and the assemblies of the fraternity acquired the patronage of the great and good, while the tenets of the profession were attended with general and unbounded utility.
Comment
I find it impossible to ignore that over and over again we, as Masons, are admonished to “Know Ourselves” for, until we do, we will not have that SOLID foundation on which to grow & develop.