The Mystery of the Egyptian Pyramid on US Currency: Decoding the Symbolism
When one first looks at the pyramid on the US dollar bill, it can indeed evoke thoughts of ancient Egypt. However, this architectural marvel adorning the Great Seal of the United States has a deeper meaning that extends far beyond the geographical and historical context of Egypt.
What Does the Pyramid Represent?
The pyramid is not a direct representation of the Egyptian pyramids but a symbolic one. It serves as a beacon of strength and durability, embodying the foundational values that the United States was founded upon. Its derivation is rooted in the principles of stability, longevity, and coherence, which every new nation aspires to uphold.
The Pyramid on the Great Seal
The pyramid in the Great Seal of the United States is unique. It has a distinct design with one step for each of the 13 original states and the year 1776 inscribed in Roman numerals at the bottom. The design is steeper than the actual Egyptian pyramids, a feature that adds to its symbolic significance. At the top of the pyramid, one finds not an eye, but rather the Eye of Providence, symbolizing a higher power's approval.
Each row of stone in the pyramid signifies one of the 13 original colonies, and the Eye of Providence at the apex represents the watchful and guiding hand of God. This imagery is meant to convey a sense of trust and faith in a higher authority, suggesting that the United States will grow and endure under divine providence.
The Historical Context
Charles Thompson, who designed the part of the dollar bill featuring the pyramid, explained that it symbolized “Strength and Duration.” This interpretation aligns with the historical context of the time, where the newly formed United States was consolidating its identity and principles. The Founding Fathers, many of whom were Freemasons, combined mathematical principles and architectural theories with political philosophy to create a symbol that would reflect the ideals they sought to instill in the nation.
Masonic Influence
The pyramid and its symbolism have deep roots in Freemasonry, an fraternal organization known for its emphasis on moral and spiritual ideals. The use of a pyramid in this context is a nod to the organization’s principles and the belief in the strength and stability of the nation. Freemasonry, with its mathematical and geometric symbols, aligns perfectly with the aesthetic and symbolic elements of the Great Seal.
Is There a Connection to Egypt?
While the symbolism of the pyramid is rooted in ideals of strength and durability, it is not a literal representation of the pyramids of Egypt. The pyramids in Egypt are iconic structures, but they are merely the best known among numerous other pyramidal structures found in different cultures. The pyramid on the Great Seal of the United States is an imaginary structure that stands for the United States—symbolizing a nation that is incomplete, yet growing and becoming stronger.
The phrase "novus ordo seclorum" (a new order of the ages) inscribed below the pyramid emphasizes the newness and continuity of the United States, suggesting that it is both a new nation and a continuation of the enduring values it upholds.
Conclusion
In summary, the pyramid on the Great Seal of the United States is a rich tapestry of symbolism that reflects the nation's founding ideals, its principles of Freemasonry, and its divine and humanistic aspirations. Far from being a mere reference to ancient Egypt, it is a potent symbol of strength, endurance, and the nation's unwavering commitment to its foundational values.
For those interested in learning more about the symbolism and design of the Great Seal, Google for detailed resources on the subject.