Horns of the AltarThis reference in Hebrew Scriptures has often been misinterpreted to mean actual horns or representations thereof, and occasionally Masonic altars have been fitted with four ox horns in an endeavor to reach historical realism. The term merely indicates that the frame or slight parapet surrounding the top of the altar was higher at the corners than in the intervening portions across which the priests reached to handle the sacrifice. Since altars were sacred in ancient times, a fugitive from justice who caught hold of the corners or horns of the altar was deemed to have thrown himself on the mercy of the Deity. Wherefore it was perilous for any man to dislodge him. This general idea seems to have been widespread, it often being sufficient for a criminal merely to get within the sanctuary of a temple or a shrine.
Perpendicular.
A perpendicular is a line meeting another line or a plane at right angles. A plumb or plumb line is said to be a perpend or a perpendicular, because it is perpendicular to the plane of the horizon and points to the center of the Earth. Hence, it represents rectitude, temperance, fortitude, prudence, and justice.
Fraternally,
Norm Leeper, PM, HA
