Bruce R McConkie said, "Symbols are the language in which all gospel covenants and all ordinances of salvation have been revealed. From the time we are immersed in the waters of baptism to the time we kneel at the altar of the temple with the companion of our choice in the ordinance of eternal marriage, every covenant we make will be written in the language of symbolism."
Volumes can be filled with the meanings behind Gospel symbols, but for lack of time and space, I'm going to only discuss a few. I would encourage you, as with any Gospel topics that are discussed in this blog, to do your own personal study on the subject material presented, digging deeper into the mysteries of God that he wants to reveal to you. It is important for you to understand that the mysteries of God are all contained in the scriptures. It is only by studying them with a pure heart that the Lord will unlock the deeper doctrines that are there. King Benjamin observed that Christ had given the people "many signs, and wonders, and types, and shadows . . . concerning his coming; . . . and yet they hardened their hearts, and understood not" (Mosiah 3:15) So read, ponder and pray over your scripture reading that your heart may be open to understand and learn.
Let's start off with the symbol "L" or also known both in LDS circles and other Christian and Masonic circles, as the mark of the square. As we observe through our Gospel teachings, the mark of the square is used in many aspects of our religion. It is a marking in our garments. In the temple endowment, baptisms, sustaining of individuals in callings and sustaining of Church leaders, we raise our arms to the square. I have raised my arm to the square on many occasions and used my priesthood to cast out evil spirits.
This symbol represents power, promise and deep significance in our priesthood and religious exercises. According to LDS, Masonic and Christian beliefs, the mark of the square means the sign of a builder, justice and uprightness, to act uprightly, justly and truthful, an emblem of morality and to square their lives and actions according to the laws of God.
The square in the construction trade is used for "truing" stones and "proving" them correct. We can see how easily the association with truth and virtue could arise. The Egyptians, Confucius and Aristotle referred to "square actions" and associated this with honest dealings, high morality and virtue.
The next symbol I want to discuss is the eight-pointed star. This symbol has been used throughout the ages. Most recently, it was used as an architectural symbol in the San Diego Temple. When going through the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, I noticed this symbol there also.
This symbol, which is two over-lapping squares, is known as the Seal of Melchizedek. This symbol's name as the Seal of Melchizedek is known to come from a painting located in a basilica in Ravenna, Italy, of King Melchizedek, as the great High Priest, standing behind an altar, with the seal on the front of the altar. Because of this painting and other representations throughout the years, this symbol has strong associations with the altar, the temple, all of which lead us to Christ. Inherent to the symbol is the priesthood, submitting wholly to Christ and the total giving of one's self to Christ.
As we ponder the multi-layered symbolism of this eight point star, consider the eight right-angled squares that inherently make up the symbol. As I mentioned above, the sacred nature of the mark of the square, we have eight of them within this one symbol.
Speaking of the number eight, it has great significance in many parts of our Gospel. Eight is the age of accountability and when a person can be baptized. The number eight to the ancient Hebrews symbolized "new beginning," with the eighth day of the week as the first day of the week, or the beginning of a new time.
Our Gospel is full of symbolism, shapes and figures, all of which carry deep meaning. We can come to understand these symbols as we peel back the layers of symbolism one layer at a time. Take some time this week, in your scripture study and attendance at Church, to identify the symbols and ponder their meanings and applications to you personally. As you do so, the Lord will bless you with a deeper understanding of his relationship with you.
Let me conclude with this quote from Bruce R. McConkie: "Symbols are the language of feeling, and as such, it is not expected that everyone will perceive them in the same way. Like a beautifully cut diamond, they catch the light and then reflect its splendor in a variety of ways. As viewed at different times and from different positions, what is reflected will differ, yet the diamond and the light remain the same. Thus symbols, like words, gain richness in their variety of meanings and purposes, which range from revealing to concealing great gospel truths."
Love,
Dad
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