The introduction of Jacob’s ladder into the symbolism of Speculative Masonry is to be traced to the vision of Jacob, which can be found in the 28th chapter of the book of Genesis. In Freemasonry, it symbolizes progress. Its three principal rounds representing Faith, Hope and Charity, present us with the means of advancing from earth to heaven, from death to life and from mortal to immortality. Hence its foot is placed on the ground-floor of the Lodge, which is typical of the world, and its top rests on the covering of the Lodge, which is symbolic of heaven.
