If you’ve ever seen the five-pointed star emblem with an “OES” at the center, you’ve encountered the symbol of the Eastern Star. But what does it exactly signify? The Order of the Eastern Star is a fraternal organization intended for women with the Freemasons. It revolves around its core principles of charity, truth, and loving-kindness. The Eastern Star symbolizes a noble character and a firm belief in God, as its members work towards strengthening their commitment to serving others and improving their community.
The emblem of the Eastern Star is a five-pointed star, with each tip representing a biblical heroines’ characteristic. The inscriptions “F.A.T.A.L” is located at each tip standing for Fairest Among Thousands, Altogether Lovely. The emblem’s center displays the crescent moon and chapter number alongside the letters “OES,” standing for the Order of the Eastern Star. In every chapter, a Rainbow Garden can be seen. The Eastern Star represents diverse forms of intellectual activity and moral education, making it an all-encompassing organization that encourages and nurtures its members to be reflective of virtues such as wisdom, beauty, and truth.
The Eastern Star is more than a symbol; it is an order of women who share a common goal and vision. It was founded in the late 1800s after the Civil War, when women wanted to have a society to serve the community alongside the Freemasons. While it remains steeped in mysteries and secrets associated with Freemasonry, its core values remain steadfast and transparent. The Eastern Star is a remarkable organization that seeks to promote the qualities of feminine leadership, virtuous living, and personal growth.
History of the Eastern Star
The Order of the Eastern Star is a fraternal organization that emerged in the 19th century and is related to the Masonic Lodge. It was founded by a Masonic brother named Dr. Rob Morris, who was a poet, educator, and a member of the Masonic Fraternity in Lexington, Kentucky. The organization was officially established on August 5, 1850. Its membership is open to men who are Masons in good standing, and women who have a familial relationship with them. The Order of the Eastern Star is based on the teachings of the Bible, but it is not a religion in itself but rather a fraternal and charitable organization with a philanthropic agenda.
- The first five degrees of Masonry are said to represent the building of King Solomon’s Temple. The Order of the Eastern Star is an extension of the principles and teachings of these degrees with a particular emphasis on charity and fraternalism.
- The organization is called the Eastern Star because its symbol is a five-pointed star with the five points representing the five heroines of the Bible: Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa. Each heroine represents a different virtue, including fidelity, loyalty, courage, faith, and love.
- The Eastern Star is governed by the General Grand Chapter, which was established in Indianapolis in 1876. The organization has chapters in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
The Eastern Star has a rich history and has contributed to various charitable causes. During World War II, the organization provided support to soldiers and their families. It has also contributed to disaster relief efforts and has donated to cancer research and other health causes. The Order of the Eastern Star continues to promote the virtues represented by the five heroines of the Bible and aims to provide support and assistance to its members and the communities they serve.
Origins of the Eastern Star symbol
The Eastern Star symbol has a long and rich history, dating back to the early days of freemasonry. One of the central themes of the Eastern Star is the concept of balance and duality. This is reflected in the star symbol itself, which features five points, each representing a different aspect of the organization’s values.
- The first point represents Adah, the wife of Japheth and the mother of the “white race.” It symbolizes the idea of purity and innocence.
- The second point represents Ruth, the great-grandmother of King David. It symbolizes the concept of fidelity and devotion.
- The third point represents Esther, the queen of Persia who saved the Jews from genocide. It symbolizes courage and strength.
The remaining two points of the Eastern Star symbol represent Martha and Electa, who symbolize the ideals of service and wisdom respectively.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Eastern Star symbol is its association with the number 2. This number has been considered significant by many cultures throughout history and holds special meaning within the Eastern Star organization.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Two Aspects of the Divine | The number 2 represents the two aspects of the divine, which are often referred to as the feminine (the moon) and masculine (the sun). |
| The Divine Union | In the Eastern Star, the number 2 represents the divine union of the male and female energies and the perfect balance of opposites. |
| Divine Harmony | The number 2 also symbolizes the idea of divine harmony and the balance that can be achieved when two complementary forces come together. |
The number 2 is also significant in the Eastern Star because it is believed to represent the dual nature of human beings. Just as the divine is made up of both masculine and feminine energies, human beings also possess both masculine and feminine qualities. By embracing and balancing these qualities within ourselves, we can achieve a state of harmony and wholeness, which is one of the central goals of the Eastern Star.
The five pointed star and its significance in Eastern Star
The Eastern Star is a social organization and fraternity associated with the Masonic Lodge. It is open to both men and women, although it is predominantly made up of women. The symbol of Eastern Star is a five pointed star, which has various meanings and interpretations.
- The number five is significant in many cultures and religions. In Christianity, it represents the five wounds of Christ. In Chinese culture, it represents the five elements of nature. In Islam, it represents the five pillars of faith.
- In Eastern Star, the five pointed star is said to represent the five points of fellowship: foot to foot, knee to knee, breast to breast, hand to hand, and ear to ear. These are the physical positions that are taken during the initiation ceremony.
- The five points of the star also represent the five heroines of Eastern Star: Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa. Each of these women represents a different virtue or quality that members of the organization strive to embody.
One of the most significant aspects of the five pointed star in Eastern Star is the concept of unity. Each point of the star represents a different element or value, but they are all interconnected and interdependent. Just as the points of the star cannot exist without each other, so too do the members of Eastern Star rely on each other for support and encouragement.
Additionally, the colors of the Eastern Star symbol have their own significance. The white ray represents purity, the blue ray represents fidelity, the yellow ray represents constancy, the green ray represents hope, and the red ray represents charity.
| Color | Significance |
|---|---|
| White | Purity |
| Blue | Fidelity |
| Yellow | Constancy |
| Green | Hope |
| Red | Charity |
Overall, the five pointed star is a significant symbol in Eastern Star. It represents the interconnectedness of the organization’s members and the values and virtues that they aspire to embody.
The colors in Eastern Star symbolism
Eastern Star is a Masonic organization that was created to allow women to participate in the Masonic fraternity. The organization uses different colors to represent various aspects of its symbolism. Understanding the significance of these colors is essential for any member of the organization. In this blog post, we will explore the meaning behind the colors in Eastern Star symbolism.
The color blue
- The color blue is a symbol of loyalty, faith, and truth. It is one of the most prominent colors in Eastern Star symbolism.
- Blue is the color of the sky and the sea, representing the vastness and the depth of knowledge that the organization seeks to explore.
- The blue color is also a symbol of the fraternity’s connection to Masonry, as blue is the principal color of Masonic symbolism.
The color white
The color white is a symbol of purity, innocence, and perfection. It represents the quality of the soul that Eastern Star members aim to achieve in their spiritual and moral growth.
The color red
The color red is a symbol of passion, courage, and zeal. It is a representation of sacrifice and the bloodshed of martyrs. Eastern Star members use the color red to signify the virtues of fearlessness and selflessness, which are essential qualities in their quest for knowledge and enlightenment.
The color yellow
The color yellow is a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. It is associated with the light of the sun and the fire of the spirit. Eastern Star members use the color yellow to represent their pursuit of knowledge and their commitment to intellectual growth.
The number 4
The number four is considered significant in Eastern Star symbolism, as it represents the four cardinal virtues of the organization: faith, hope, charity, and truth. These virtues are the foundation of Eastern Star’s mission, and members are expected to embody them in their daily lives.
| Cardinal Virtue | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Faith | Theological virtue that represents the belief in a higher power and the acceptance of divine intervention. |
| Hope | Theological virtue that represents the belief in a better future and the confidence in achieving that future. |
| Charity | Theological virtue that represents the love of others and the desire to assist them in times of need. |
| Truth | The moral virtue that represents the recognition and pursuit of objective reality and the avoidance of falsehood and deception. |
Understanding the significance of the number 4 and the cardinal virtues is essential for any Eastern Star member. These virtues are the essence of the organization’s mission, and they serve as a guide for members to lead righteous and meaningful lives.
Meaning of the intertwined “OES” letters in Eastern Star
The Order of the Eastern Star, or OES, is a Masonic-associated organization that has its roots dating back to the 19th century. The OES is a society made up of women who are relatives of Master Masons or Master Masons themselves. The organization has various symbols, including the intertwined letters “OES,” which hold significant meaning to its members.
The Number 5
- The number 5 is an important symbol in the Eastern Star. It represents various concepts, including the five points of the Order’s star, which signify Fidelity, Constancy, Loyalty, Faith and Love.
- The number 5 is also significant in numerous other aspects, including the number of offices in the Order, five official colors, and five degrees.
- In numerology, the number 5 represents freedom, change, and adventure, which aligns with the Eastern Star’s emphasis on personal growth and self-improvement.
The Intertwined “OES” Letters
The intertwined “OES” letters in the Eastern Star’s symbol represent the three initiatory degrees in Masonry: the Order of the Blue Lodge, the Chapter, and the Council. The three degrees correspond to the Order’s motto: “Amor, Honor, et Fidelitas,” which translates to “Love, Honor, and Fidelity.”
The OES symbol also represents the three primary Masonic virtues: Faith, Hope, and Charity. Additionally, the intertwined “OES” letters are often referred to as the “triple triangle,” which represents the balance and harmony in life.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Wreath of Laurel Leaves | Victory and Achievement |
| Bow and Arrow | Strength and Accuracy |
| Broken Column | Mortality and the Inevitability of Death |
The intertwined “OES” letters serve as a reminder to members of the Order of their connection to the larger Masonic community. As part of the Masonic family, members of the Eastern Star are encouraged to uphold the principles of brotherhood, charity, and service to others.
Overall, the Eastern Star’s “OES” symbol is rich in meaning and significance and serves as a powerful reminder of the Order’s values and ideals.
Differences between Eastern Star and Masonic symbolism
The Eastern Star and Masonic symbolism share many similarities in their iconography, however, there are some key differences. Below we explore these distinctions in more depth:
The Number 6
The number 6 holds a significant meaning in both Eastern Star and Masonic symbolism, albeit with different interpretations.
- In Eastern Star symbolism, the number 6 represents the six days of creation, with the seventh day being a day of rest. The idea of resting is significant as it refers to finding peace and harmony within oneself.
- In Masonic symbolism, the number 6 is associated with the six working days of a laborer. It represents hard work, perseverance, and dedication to one’s craft.
| Eastern Star Symbolism | Masonic Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Represents the six days of creation, with the seventh day as a day of rest. | Associated with the six working days of a laborer, representing hard work and dedication. |
While both interpretations of the number 6 focus on the idea of hard work and dedication, the Eastern Star emphasizes the importance of rest and self-care, while the Masonic interpretation emphasizes the importance of perseverance and commitment to one’s craft.
Symbols used in Eastern Star rituals
The Order of the Eastern Star, or OES, is one of the oldest fraternal organizations in the world. It is primarily a women’s organization, but men can also join in. The fraternity uses various symbols in their rituals, with each symbol representing a particular idea or principle. Let’s explore some of the symbols used in Eastern Star rituals.
The number 7
The number 7 is considered as one of the holiest numbers in the Eastern Star fraternity. It is represented by a seven-branched candelabrum or a seven-pointed star. This number has a biblical and mystical significance, and it is often associated with perfection, completion, and divinity.
There are several instances in the Bible where the number 7 is used. God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day. In the Book of Revelation, there are seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven spirits. These biblical examples are some of the reasons why the number seven is considered holy in the Eastern Star fraternity.
The number seven symbolizes the seven attributes of morality that members of the Eastern Star fraternity strive to achieve. These attributes are:
- Adherence to truth
- Belief in the power of prayer
- Charity and service to others
- Loyalty to friends and loved ones
- Fidelity to obligations
- Helpfulness to those in need
- Commitment to moral and ethical values
These seven attributes, or virtues, form the pillars of the OES fraternity. They guide members to become better versions of themselves, with the ultimate goal of making the world a better place for everyone.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Seven-branched candelabrum | Represents the seven virtues of morality |
| Seven-pointed star | Represents the seven attributes of morality |
The number 7 plays a significant role in the Eastern Star fraternity’s rituals and initiations. Its symbolism serves as a reminder to members to strive for moral excellence and to conduct themselves with integrity and virtue.
Eastern Star Initiation Ceremony
If you have ever attended an Eastern Star initiation ceremony, you know just how awe-inspiring and ceremonial it can be. The Eastern Star initiation ceremony is a time-honored tradition that serves to acknowledge the skills, dedication, and service of new members of the organization. Here we will discuss various elements of this ritual.
The Number 8
One of the most significant symbols in the Eastern Star initiation ceremony is the number 8. This number is displayed throughout various rituals and represents many things, including:
- Infinity and Eternity
- Balance and Harmony
- Karma and Universal Law
The symbol of infinity and eternity is closely related to the Eastern Star initiation ceremony, as it represents the lifelong commitment members make to the organization. Along with this, the number 8 exemplifies balance and harmony, mindfulness principles that Eastern Star members seek to embody in their everyday lives.
The number 8 in Eastern Star symbolism also represents karma and universal law, two concepts that represent the concept that everything you do comes with a result. This principle aligns with many of the Eastern Star’s core tenets, including charitable giving, community service and helping those who need help the most.
Eastern Star Oaths and Obligations
During the initiation ceremony, Eastern Star members take a solemn oath to uphold the values and principles of the organization. This oath represents their commitment to serving others and working towards a better future for their communities.
In addition to taking oaths, initiates also accept various obligations and responsibilities that come with becoming a member of Eastern Star. These obligations include the promise to live their lives by the highest ethical and moral standards, to participate fully in the organization’s charitable and volunteer efforts, and to respect and honor all members of Eastern Star, past and present.
The Eastern Star Initiation Ceremony Table
The initiation ceremony is typically held around a special table, representing the gathering of members for a common purpose. The table is decorated with various symbols and objects, including ribbons, stars, and candles of different colors. Each of these elements is significant and represents different aspects of the Eastern Star’s history and symbolism.
| Candle Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Blue | Faith |
| White | Purity |
| Green | Hope |
| Yellow | Charity |
| Red | Love |
The candles of different colors symbolize essential elements of the organization’s beliefs and values. These include the blue candle, which symbolizes faith, the white candle, which represents purity, and the green candle, which represents hope. The yellow candle represents charity, and the red candle represents love, further emphasizing the Eastern Star’s core values.
The Eastern Star initiation ceremony is a powerful and inspiring experience that represents the organization’s deep-rooted history and values. Through the symbolism of the number 8, the oaths, and obligations, and the special table and candles, the ceremony speaks to the dedication and commitment of all Eastern Star members, both old and new.
Famous Members of Eastern Star
The Order of the Eastern Star, also known as OES, is a Masonic organization that includes both men and women. It was founded in the United States in the mid-19th century and has since spread worldwide. Members of Eastern Star are comprised of Master Masons and their female relatives, as well as some other women who have Masonic affiliations. The Eastern Star is deeply rooted in various symbols that represent different values and concepts. Here, we will examine some famous members of the Eastern Star and what their experience within the organization symbolizes.
The Number 9
The number nine is an important symbol in the Eastern Star. According to the teachings of the organization, nine represents the number of degrees of the Order of the Eastern Star, each of which corresponds to different principles or virtues. The nine degrees are Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, Electa, the Warder, the Sentinel, and the Star Points. Each degree includes a set of teachings and rituals centered around a particular symbol, such as the sword or the cup.
- Adah: Faith
- Ruth: Constancy
- Esther: Loyalty
- Martha: Fidelity
- Electa: Love
- Warder: Honor
- Sentinel: Courage
- Star Points: Service and Charity
The number nine also symbolizes completeness and attainment of perfection, as it is the highest cardinal number and the sum of all the numbers that come before it. In this sense, members of the Eastern Star strive to embody the virtues of each degree so that they may achieve a state of completeness or perfection in their own lives.
| Famous Members | Symbolic Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bess Truman | First Lady to a Master Mason President, symbolizing support and service to the Masonic community |
| Louisa May Alcott | Author of “Little Women”, symbolizing creativity and womanhood |
| Marie Curie | Scientific pioneer and Nobel Prize winner, symbolizing education and progress |
| Elizabeth Taylor | Hollywood actress and philanthropist, symbolizing beauty and generosity |
The Eastern Star has had many members who have made significant contributions to society in various fields, including politics, literature, science, and the arts. These members represent the diverse values and ideals of the organization and serve as examples of what can be achieved through dedication and commitment to the principles of the Eastern Star.
Eastern Star Charities and Community Involvement
The Eastern Star is a women’s fraternal organization with a focus on charity work and community involvement. It was founded in the late 1800s as an auxiliary organization of the Masonic Lodge. The Eastern Star is known for its philanthropic work in the community and has supported numerous charities over the years.
- One of the main charities that the Eastern Star supports is the Eastern Star Home. This is a retirement and nursing home for members of the organization and their families. It provides a safe and comfortable living environment for those in their golden years.
- The organization also supports a number of other charitable causes, including cancer research, children’s hospitals, and local food banks. The Eastern Star is committed to making a difference in the lives of those in need.
- In addition to its charity work, the Eastern Star is involved in a number of community activities. This includes participating in local parades, organizing blood drives, and volunteering at community events. The organization is dedicated to serving the needs of the community and promoting goodwill.
The Eastern Star is also known for its educational programs. The organization offers scholarships to students who are pursuing higher education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and financial need. The organization believes in the importance of education and is committed to helping students achieve their goals.
The Eastern Star is an organization that is dedicated to making a positive impact in the world. Its members are committed to helping others and working towards a better future. Whether through charity work, community involvement, or education, the Eastern Star is making a difference in the lives of many.
| Charitable Causes Supported by the Eastern Star | Community Activities Organized by the Eastern Star |
|---|---|
| Cancer research | Participating in local parades |
| Children’s hospitals | Organizing blood drives |
| Local food banks | Volunteering at community events |
No matter how you look at it, the Eastern Star is a force for good in the world. Its dedication to charity work, community involvement, and education has made a difference in the lives of countless individuals. If you are interested in becoming a part of this organization, visit your local chapter for more information.
What Does the Eastern Star Symbolize?
Q: What is the Eastern Star?
The Eastern Star is a fraternal organization for women that is associated with the Masonic Lodge.
Q: What does the Eastern Star symbolize?
The Eastern Star symbolizes the qualities of wisdom, strength, and beauty that are attributed to women.
Q: What do the five points of the Eastern Star represent?
The five points of the Eastern Star symbolize the five Biblical heroines who exemplify the qualities of the Order: Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa.
Q: What is the color symbolism associated with the Eastern Star?
The color symbolism associated with the Eastern Star is blue and white. Blue symbolizes fidelity, constancy, and truth; white symbolizes purity, faith, and light.
Q: What is the significance of the Eastern Star emblem?
The Eastern Star emblem is the inverted pentagram or star, which represents the movement of life towards a higher consciousness.
Q: Where can I learn more about the Eastern Star?
You can find out more about the Eastern Star by visiting their official website or by contacting your local chapter.
Q: Who can join the Eastern Star?
Any woman who is at least 18 years old and who has a close family member who is a member of the Masonic Lodge can join the Eastern Star.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know what the Eastern Star symbolizes, you can appreciate the significance behind this important organization for women. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the Eastern Star, and we hope to see you again soon!