Sheaf of Corn in Freemasonry: Meaning of the Masonic Symbol of Plenty

Quick answer: In Freemasonry, the sheaf or ear of corn is a symbol of plenty and nourishment. It is also connected with the Fellowcraft tradition and the biblical word shibboleth, which can refer to an ear of grain and became a test of identity in the Book of Judges.

"Corn" in the old sense

In British English "corn" traditionally means grain of any kind, such as wheat or barley, not specifically maize. The Masonic sheaf of corn is a sheaf of grain.

The shibboleth

The Book of Judges tells how the men of Gilead, holding the fords of the Jordan against the Ephraimites, made every fugitive say the word "Shibboleth". Those who pronounced it "Sibboleth" were exposed as Ephraimites (Judges 12:5–6). The Hebrew word can mean an ear of corn or a flowing stream, and Masonic tracing boards often show an ear of corn beside a fall of water, combining both senses. The story is also the origin of the English word "shibboleth", a test word or custom that marks who belongs to a group.

A symbol of plenty

Beyond the password story, corn stands for nourishment and abundance. When a new Masonic lodge is consecrated, corn is used together with wine and oil, three emblems of plenty and blessing drawn from biblical language.

The sheaf of corn in jewellery

A sheaf of corn design references harvest, abundance and a distinctively Masonic image. Take a look at the AURYN Sheaf of Corn charm, read about Jachin and Boaz, or return to our guide to Freemasonry symbols.

Frequently asked questions

What does the sheaf of corn mean in Freemasonry?

It is a symbol of plenty, nourishment and blessing, and it also connects with the Fellowcraft tradition through the biblical word shibboleth.

What does "corn" mean in the Masonic symbol?

In older British usage, "corn" means grain generally rather than specifically maize. The Masonic image is therefore an ear or sheaf of grain.

What is the connection between the sheaf of corn and shibboleth?

In Judges 12, shibboleth became a test word used to distinguish groups at the Jordan crossings. The Hebrew term can refer to an ear of grain, and Masonic imagery links that word with the sheaf or ear of corn.

Why are corn, wine and oil used in Masonic symbolism?

They are traditional emblems of nourishment, refreshment and abundance and appear together in Masonic consecration ceremonies, drawing on older biblical imagery of agricultural plenty.