Symbols generally work on at least four different levels.
1. The Obvious or Literal Level
At this level the symbol is generally understood by all. To use a metaphor, a window is a window.
2. The Metaphorical Level
Not only is it a window, but it can also be considered to be a window on the world, etc.
3. The Personal Level
This way of understanding a symbol is specific to an individual or particular group who, in addition to the general understanding (above), actively uses the symbol. "The window gives me the ability to glimpse another place and/or time."
4. The Mystical Level
At this level the symbol becomes fully operational and allows the individual (or perhaps a very small group) to experience the numinous.
These four distinctions are useful, but they are also artificial in that it is quite possible to experience some or all of these levels of symbolism at the same time.
Symbols create a junction between two realms of reality: the conscious and unconscious. They are a meeting point between the microcosm and the macrocosm; man and God; etc. This way of appreciating symbols is not understood by many people today, including a fair number of Freemasons.
Fraternally,
Norm Leeper, PM, HA
Southern California Research Lodge
