Question for fellow Masons. Why does the J.D's jewel have a moon and the S.D have a sun?

Question

Some brothers at my lodge have opinions but noone seems to know for sure. Please feel free to offer your opinion. But please let me know if you are guessing or if you know for sure. Thank You

Answer 1

First, ask yourself: what are the three Lesser Lights in Freemasonry? Are you seeing them in action? Then, whom do the W.D.s serve? Of course, the RWM but then the WWs. Then look at their positions in Lodge: right and left.

As far as "knowing for sure," do you understand that Freemasonry is speculative. No one ever "knows for sure;" instead we "letter and half" things with our Brethren. So, one Mason's opinion is probably as good as any. I would ask *YOU* what does it mean to you?

And then, in your Lodge, do you have a Director of Ceremonies? If so, what does his wand and jewel have upon it? I think that will help you understand the WJD and WSD positions.

One other thought / question, which WD walks closest to the Altar?

I am WJD for one of my Lodges and a member of the Esoteric Order American Co-Masonry (Freemasonry for Women and Men). Feel free to write me direct for more discussion.

On the Level,
A Master Mason

Hiram Lodge No. 11 (Or. of Santa Cruz, CA)
Amon Ra Lodge No. 9 (Or. of Los Angeles, CA)
Sapientia Lodge of Research (Or. of Larkspur, CO)
Adamant Mark Lodge No. 3 (Qu. of Santa Cruz, CA)

Answer 2

I know for a fact that on the surface the reason that the Senior Deacon has a sun is to signify that he is in the East with the Worshipful Master. The Junior Deacon's moon is opposite to that as he is in the west with the Senior Warden.

I have also read other possible theories about the ancient origins of this, which I can't remember at the moment, but I might be able to find it tonight. If I find it I will update this answer, or you can contact me and I'll get the answer for you.