Note: This material was scanned into text files for the sole purpose of convenient electronic research. This material is NOT intended as a reproduction of the original volumes. However close the material is to becoming a reproduced work, it should ONLY be regarded as a textual reference. This version was scanned , edited and copyrighted at Phoenixmasonry by Ralph W. Omholt, PM, Librarian in June 2007.
OUR HEROINES
Collected by
MRS. MARTHA ZOERCHER
Past Worthy Grand Matron of Indiana
Editor of "The Eastern Star"
PRESENTATION
This little book comes to you at the urgent request of Worthy Matrons who, in planning their programs for the year, discover a need for material dealing with the Heroines of the Order.
It is a valuable book, too, for each Star Point to keep and read as it presents a wide range of in depth material to make the lives and lessons of the five Heroines more meaningful.
We dedicate this effort to the thousands of earnest sisters who have presented the lessons of the Five Points to those who have sought admission to our beloved Order.
Fraternally,
MARTHA ZOERCHER,
P.W.G.M., Indiana.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
In the preparation for our suggested "Star Point Nights," much must be left to the ingenuity of the presiding officer or to the committee appointed to arrange for the presentation.
We would recommend that on the evenings set aside for the programs, all those who have served at the "Point" to be presented be invited and introduced as special guests, and that some token be presented. It may be a single flower, a Star Point favor, a neatly‑printed program or anything that the finances of the chapter will permit; that the decorations and appointments as far as practical be carried out in the colors and emblems of the "Point" honored.
In giving the three dramatized programs, as far as possible use the costumes of the time portrayed, although this may be omitted if desired. Songs and poems may be omitted, or changed to suit the occasion.
In all events, let the evenings be as dignified and sacred as our Order would have it, but let all be imbued with the joy and happiness that comes with the close association in our work.
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STARS ON MEMORY'S WALL
So often is their story told,
They stand like pictures framed in gold,
It needs not pen nor painter's art
To trace them deeply on the heart,
For stretched on Fancy's brightest wall
We see them now - they come at call.
A maiden stands with brow serene,
Though soon will close life's earthly scene:
Behind, Judea's mountains loom,
While at her feet the violets bloom;
The azure dome bends o'er the whole,
Fit emblem of her own true soul.
No veil obscures that undimmed eye,
But dauntless, firm, she comes to die.
A simple, past'ral sketch, a harvest field,
Familiar to our eyes from earliest years;
With one who stands homesick, fatigued, forlorn;
Within her hands the tiny fruits of toil,
And in her heart the widow's lonely wail,
But God who marked her self‑denying vow
To childless, lone Naomi, watches yet,
And soon her heart shall sing for joy.
So we Rejoice to court her lovely face within
Our hall of storied paintings. Jessamine wreathed
And circled round with golden fruitage bright
We see her still - our faithful, constant Ruth.
Third vision fair - a Persian throne,
Its queen beloved, yet all unknown,
She's of a captive, exiled race,
Whose very life, whose hour of grace
Rests now upon her fealty.
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"I go unto the king," she saith,
"Although to go be instant death!
And if I perish" - Oh! the cry
Of that true heart! "I shall but die!"
All woman in her loyalty.
We read the story in her face,
"Tender and true," its lines of grace.
Full well we know that steadfast mein,
Ne'er lost the Jewess in the Queen,
So we embalm her constancy.
That vision flies, and Martha's face
Is outlined in its destined place;
We see again that lonely home,
O'ershadowed by Death's sable plume;
We share with her bereavement dread,
For all earth's households mourn their dead;
Yet sweetly came Christ's meaning plain:
"Because I live ye live again."
He rose to make that faith secure,
And thus we read this teaching pure:
That though Death's angel comes to all,
And "One by one each link must fall,"
Yet faith can see our golden chain
United its severed links again.
The last of our five pictures rare,
With fancy's pen has traced in air,
Is our Electa, whose brave faith
Lent lustre to a martyr's death;
She seems a type of those who stand
To help earth's weak with heart and hand,
Forgetting self in deeds of love,
Their sure reward - the life above.
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LEARNING FROM THE STAR POINTS
The Rays of the Star, in the Order of the Eastern Star, may be used in many and varied ways for instruction, interest and entertainment.
On Friendship Night we may remember that Adah went to the mountains, followed by her friends. Ruth found friends among Naomi's people. Esther offered her life for her kindred and friends. Martha's great reason for fame is that she was a friend of Jesus. Electa spent her life ministering to her friends.
And so with other virtues and other special meetings. We can find the virtue or its associations in the life of each of our heroines. That is why so many of our programs include, in some way, some of the virtues of the Star Point Rays. The history and meanings of the colors may be added to these to make the references more real and startlingly dramatic.
ADAH
The Eleventh chapter of Judges tells the story, short and without embellishment, of Jephthah and his vow and how his daughter helped in its fulfillment.
Jephthah had a history of difficulties with other chiefs because of his lowly birth, so that he resented it when he was asked to help defeat the Ammonites. However, he made a bargain concerning what each would offer if he came home victorious; then he vowed to the Lord that if success were his, that he would present for a burnt offering whatever came forth from the doors of his house to meet him on his return from victory.
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At the moment he had forgotten how his beloved only child, a daughter, always came to meet him. Although, in the fulfillment of prophecy, perhaps Adah had lived for this. Being a warrior's daughter, she knew that a soldier's honor ranked high, and she must not make her father's sacrifice any harder, so she agreed at once.
However, she asked for two months, to bewail her virginity and many do not understand the significance of this. She had been reared in a religion that watched for the Messiah, believing that He would be born of her people. Every pure girl must have dreamed that perhaps she would be the mother and through her would come the blessing of the world. Certainly, she knew that when she gave up her life to preserve her father's honor that grand hope was also renounced.
She went to the mountains where the blue of fidelity would strengthen her resolves. Blue skies, blue vistas, blue waters, the blue of the night sky . . . so the blue of fidelity came into being. Personally she gained nothing but her self‑respect, obedience to her father, her religion and her own code of honor. But she also gained recognition that has lasted through the centuries! Few women are mentioned in Holy Scriptures and few women through the ages have been as influential. So we cannot judge the worth of her sacrifice, but we can applaud its far‑reaching results.
The name "Adah" means ornament. Although the name does not appear in Scripture, it seems most
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appropriate for her spirit and character were beautiful and truly an ornament to her father's life.
The violet is associated with this Ray because it is associated with loyalty and meekness. The ideals exemplified here are self‑sacrifice, integrity, and obedience. The open Bible signifies that only the Word of God may direct the individual in the right way in which to go.
RUTH
In the land of Moab, a childless widow had a poor lot and yet was entitled to the charity of the family.
Ruth chose the harder way - that of toil for her‑self and her aged mother‑in‑law. Although of alien background, Ruth's womanly sweetness made the people of the little town of Bethlehem admire and call her the ideal daughter‑in‑law, wife and mother.
The story of Ruth is one of the most beautiful in Scripture and is considered by many to be truly historical. Ruth always seemed to be able to do the right thing at the right time and never gave herself to grieve or indulge in self‑pity. She served in all ways, steadfast and in humility.
By tribal custom Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz, a kinsman of Naomi. Boaz was a man of God, of high morals and intelligence, and he appreciated Ruth's quiet loveliness, her inborn purity, and succeeded in his desire to win her for his wife. Thus a lovely stranger in Judah was raised from obscurity
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to influence and renown. The House of David sprang from this lineage, finally leading to Mary, whose Son was destined to be the savior of mankind.
Ruth proved that love and womanly virtues combined, can shed a ray, like golden sunshine. She proves that the womanly ways of goodness can win great rewards in life.
The yellow Jessamine is a flower of humility yet its color glows as a golden harvest of beauty.
We must always remain true to our convictions, and in love, know that no service is too humble to earn great rewards. Sincerity added radiance to all that Ruth did.
ESTHER
The Book of Esther is more historical than Scriptural. The name of God does not appear once in this book. The entire story is a patriotic symbol to a persecuted people who realize the ultimate triumph of justice. Modern stories that attribute all the virtues of grace and courage to a fifteen year old girl do not take into consideration that Esther's uncle, Mordecai, was wise in the ways of kings and court matters and had instructed Esther as well in ways of courage and loyalty.
Esther rose from a humble origin to a position as Queen. Her name appears fifty‑five times in this short Bible book. She dedicated her life to the welfare of the people instead of basking in the luxury of the court.
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When Esther learned of the terrible danger con‑fronting her people she did not hesitate. However, Mordecai's question of her: "Who knoweth whether thou art cone to the kingdom for such a time as this?" is perhaps a continuing challenge to all women of all times.
The Scriptural story is perfectly told. It builds up to moments of drama. Esther had a choice: banishment with the other Jews or confronting the king with possible death for herself. Her acceptance of the challenge makes the color white a constant re‑minder of the virtues of prudence, intelligence, fearlessness and deep insight.
The lily is symbolic of Esther's purity.
MARTHA
The story of Martha and Mary is a story of contrasts between the idealistic Mary and the practical Martha. When the founders of the Eastern Star out‑lined the ritualistic work they understood that the greater number of members would not be dreamers and poets, but would be the Marthas, the home‑makers, the women who face the everyday tasks, so they chose Martha for the important fourth point of the Star.
Martha belongs to the gallery of famous Bible women. It was to Martha that Jesus spoke the ringing words that have comforted those in grief even to this day. Martha holds another honor for she was a friend of Jesus. He often visited with the family.
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Martha's faith and trust make her memorable throughout time, but the passages telling the story not only dignify the talent of homemakers and honor those who serve, but her growing tolerance and understanding are also recognized. Jesus impressed upon the sisters that it is a good thing to take time to live, to listen, and to take time for friends.
The triumph of trustful faith is our constant re‑minder when we see the color green. It is the ever fresh and forever growing concept of immortality.
ELECTA
The story of Electa tells of the courage of women - that did much to raise the standard of woman‑hood at a time when those standards were very low.
The letter to the Elect Lady has been debated since early times, but her identity is still unsolved. The word "Lady" occurs only six times in the Bible, twice in this letter, which signifies nobility. The Elect Lady was truly one of the elect of God. She is de‑scribed as being pre‑eminent in charity and raising her children in Christian truth and love.
She was martyred, but believed in the lesson of the Resurrection so she died steadfast. She knew that principles never die. She taught us that belief must go with good works if it is to survive.
Her loyalty to her Christian faith makes her one of the most respected women in the Bible and the warm shade of courageous red, the glow of setting suns, brings powerful mother love to our minds. We who follow must have the strength to resist evil associations and tyrannic threats and live as Jesus taught.
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OUR EASTERN STAR
We honor and praise those stories of old,
As found in the message divine; Portrayed at the points of the beautiful star,
May its teachings forevermore shine.
The story of Adah, heroic and brave,
Is marked by the color of blue;
And Ruth, in yellow, the sheaf in her hand,
Tells of loyalty, fervent and true.
We learn from the life of Esther the queen,
To be valiant, courageous and brave;
In her robe of white, the scepter did touch,
In venture, her people to save.
In green there is Martha of implicit faith In the miracles.
Mournfully cried: "If only thou hadst been here, then
My brother had not died."
Electa in red, with her virtues sublime,
Of humanity, charity, love;
Her banner unfurled to the wants of the world;
A command from the Father above.
May the lessons of life, so noble and true,
As told at the points of the star,
Be a guiding light for woman today,
In lands here at home and afar.
May we reverence the lives of those women of old,
As learned from the Bible each day;
And follow the path where'er it may lead,
Be a lamp to our feet alway.
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All hail to the wonderful Eastern Star!
May its colors ride on, in speed -
With its blue, yellow, white, her green and red,
And ever be found in the lead.
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HISTORY OF THE FIVE‑POINTED STAR AND OTHER STARS
Religion, legend and tradition and even our every‑day decorative ideas give stars importance. The Order of the Eastern Star bases its lessons on the teachings of the Bible. Matthew 2:2: For we have seen His Star in the East, and are come to worship Him.
The five‑pointed star in prehistoric wisdom was called the Star of Beauty, and was once called the symbol of health and it was held to be a talisman against witchcraft. The symbol used, with the pentagram within, can be made in one continuous movement and it seems as if the points are interlaced to form the star. This five‑pointed star is known as the Pentacle or Pentagram. It is told that this symbol was used as a badge by the members of the Pythagorian School and is said to have signified health to these ancient philosophers.
Marks of this kind are also used in Northern India on utensils, particularly on domestic objects. The symbol is used by the people as a protective amulet or charm to prevent scorpion stings and fever.
In ancient times the five‑pointed star or pentagram was used by one venerated mystic order to symbolize the numeral five, and disorder, or fall, death, disease, corruption and putrefaction . . . but most people held a different belief.
The five‑pointed star had a strong significance among many ancient peoples. According to Pythagoras, there were five elements, the first four being
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earth, air, fire and water and the fifth being of a celestial nature or a quintessence. It was considered to be the first matter and the other elements were supposed to be conceived from this fifth one. Thus it was the immortal mind force. It was the power, the quality and the virtue of each and everything in nature. Through its power and its activity, all objects are mutually attracted or repelled in accordance with their polarities.
Old philosophies gave other star forms a deep significance. The six‑pointed star was a symbol of the Creator. It is the true interlaced triangles and a symbol of perfection. This star is used in many of the Jewish synagogues and is called the shield of David. Some ancient orders accepted the triangle as a symbol of perfection and so the interlaced triangles represented the perfection of the law of duality on both the material and spiritual planes.
The seven‑pointed star represents the seven days of the week, the seven branches to the candlestick of Moses, the seven churches of Asia, the seven mysterious seals, the seven stars in the right hand of God and the point of unity of the triangles on the finite and infinite planes.
The eight‑pointed star represents stability and suggests that the spiritual and material planes are in harmony with each other. Number four or the square is the symbol of stability and dependability, so twice four, or eight, depicts stability on both planes.
The nine‑pointed star is emblematic of spirituality, love, joy, peace, temperance and goodness, in fact,
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all the spiritual virtues. Nine is a mystical number, and alludes to the ultimate completion and final perfection of any great undertaking, and it is also an ancient symbol for the triangle.
The twelve‑pointed star alludes to the Disciples and has this sacred significance. It alludes also to the Council of Divine Wisdom, the gathering of the Prophets, the conclave of the holy masters that have dwelt among men.
In ancient mythology Hesper was Venue as the Evening Star. From this, Italy and Spain, both situated in the west where the sun sets, were called Hesperia or the Western Land.
Of greater significance to members of the Eastern Star are these passages from the Bible: REVELATIONS 22:16. I am the root and the off‑spring of David, and the bright and morning star. (In the East, the morning star was always so bright that it guided travelers on their way.) II PETER 1 :19 . . . as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts.
I CORINTHIANS 15:41 . . . for one Star differeth from another Star in glory.
And last, but not least: MATTHEW 2:10 . . . when they saw the Star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
And it is with joy in our hearts that we follow in His footsteps with the Star in the East as our guiding light.
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DEVELOPMENT OF THE STAR POINTS AS EASTERN STAR SYMBOLS
In presenting a short history of the Star Point heroines it is difficult to get a comprehensive picture without infringing on the origins of Masonry for the two have had a spiritual tie through the ages.
The great majority of searchers into antiquity agree that both Freemasonry and the Order of the Eastern Star originated in the ancient mysteries and similar orders established thousands of years before Christ. In fact, most writers on this subject trace the rituals of religious and fraternal organizations to the ancient "Drama of Faith," the old "Osirian Passion‑Play," having the Trinity: Osiris, Isis and Horus. However this may be, all the ancient orders had women members. In some cases these women seemed to have a predominant role.
The Rev. Joseph Fort Newton in his book, "The Builders," credits the Greater and Lesser Mysteries with the Signs, Tokens, Grips and Passwords. He believes that Freemasonry originated in the Greater Mysteries and the Order of the Eastern Star originated in the Lesser Mysteries. In any case, the Egyptians represented the number five by a star having five rays. Occasionally the center of this star had the rays of the sun or an eye to represent Osiris. So we see that the star has long been closely associated with ancient symbolism.
The Thesaurus of 1793 lists the five rays of the star as Master Masons' daughters, Master Masons' widows, Master Masons' wives, Master Masons' sis‑
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ters, and Master Masons' wives' sisters. It was not until 1869 that this last point was changed to Master Masons' mothers.
In these early Constellations the officers consisted of Sister Principal, Vice Principal, and five Sisters of Rays . . . namely, Ray Blue, Ray Orange, Ray White, Ray Green, Ray Red, Treasurer and Secretary. A great many women were initiated into these Orders, yet the Orders were never considered eminently successful, and later, the Families were organized. However, in the Mosaic Book of 1855 of the American Adoptive Rite, the name Constellation is represented by five Stars within a circle. The "Pillars" are the five male officers who fix the time and place of meetings, nominate their successors, and appoint the five female officers who were called "Correspondents" and who represented the five Points of the Star.
These five "Correspondents" were: LUNA - who impersonated Adah in the drama, FLORA - who impersonated Ruth in the drama, HERE - who impersonated Esther in the drama, THETIS - who impersonated Martha in the drama and who acted as Conductress, AREME - who impersonated Electa in the drama.
Previous to 1856, the Rays were called Jephthah's Daughter, Ruth, Esther, Martha and Electa, but at about that time Robert Morris caused the name Adah to be substituted for Jephthah's Daughter.
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In 1865 the Rosary of the Order of the Eastern star again accents both the duty and the beauty of the Star Point Sisters.
Albert Pike, whose name is well known to Masons everywhere, asserts that while women could not be admitted to share the grand mysteries of Freemasonry, there should be a Masonry for them for their assistance and protection, and that by their ties of association and mutual obligation they also could aid the cause of human progress. He feels that his expectations have been admirably fulfilled. The Rituals of the Order are based on five historic female characters of the Bible, the Talmud and Josephus, whose lives exemplify many Masonic virtues.
JEPHTHAH'S DAUGHTER - Respect for the binding force of a vow.
RUTH, the widow - Constancy and faithfulness to right and duty.
ESTHER - Fidelity to kindred and friends.
MARTHA - Faith and belief in eternal life.
ELECTA - Patience and submission under wrongs of persecution.
Whether we study our Star Point heroines historically or traditionally, the stories are inspiring and beautiful. Our present day heroines are adding many chapters of fine and enduring service to the book of knowledge already written.
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Five Points to our Star . . . five lessons in faith, Pure beauty to service they add; Five fine examples of true worth and love, Whose duty can make the heart glad.
These are our heroines - beloved of all, In Sisterhood's radiance here, While gracing our floor, as in days of yore, To us they grow ever more dear.
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MEANINGS OF THE FIVE STAR POINT COLORS
BLUE
Blue is one of the seven primary colors, located in the solar spectrum between green and violet.
Blue sky is emblematic of serenity. Mythology made the sky the abode of the divine spirits and naturally the color of the heavens acquired the attribute of divine intelligence. The color name of blue is usually lacking from the language of the lower civilizations. The sky or heaven is mentioned at least four hundred times in the Bible but the color blue is not mentioned.
In the Vedas sky is mentioned but blue is not. In the Rigveda neither blue nor green is indicated. Blue is also symbolic of solitude and even sadness. Through association with the sky or heaven it is symbolic of hope, fidelity, serenity, intelligence, truth, piety, wisdom, thought, serene conscience, divine contemplation and love of divine works. The veil of Juno, the goddess of air, is blue. Christ, Saint John, Isis, Minerva and others are often represented in mantles of blue.
Blue or azure is a symbol of divine eternity and human immortality. Consequently it is a mortuary color, hence its use in covering the coffins of young persons. When used for the garment of an angel it signifies faith and fidelity. As the dress of the Virgin it indicates modesty. In the Catholic Church it signifies humility and expiation.
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Blue has a special or unusual significance in custom, literature and legend. For instance: Blue blood, a Spanish phrase meaning of noble descent; Coventry Blue, a permanent dye; Blue Books, books of special record; Blue Monday, the Monday before Lent, formerly spent in dissipation, now referred to as a dreary Monday of work after a week end of pleasure; and Blue pencil, used to change or remove portions of a manuscript.
In blazonry, azure abbreviated to "AZ," signifies chastity, loyalty, fidelity and a spotless reputation. It is engraved by parallel lines drawn "in feas" or horizontally.
In church decoration, blue and green are used for ordinary Sundays and blue for all weekdays after Trinity Sunday.
In metals it is represented by tin.
In precious stones it is represented by the sapphire. In the planets it stands for Jupiter.
In Stardom, it is the Star Point color of Adah and represents the sky when all clouds have vanished and symbolizes fidelity.
YELLOW
Yellow is one of the three primary colors of the spectrum. With blue it forms green, with red it forms orange.
The word yellow comes from the Latin word meaning "light bay" and a Greek word signifying "young verdure," which was greenish yellow.
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As the apparent color of the sun, yellow is held sacred by some primitive tribes and it is the national color of China. Strong light increases the intensity of yellow while most colors are dimmed. Lemon and canary yellow are considered pure yellow. Violet and yellow are complimentary to each other and if these two colors are mixed, they will produce white light.
Harvest shades suggest fruition and plenty. Yellow ranks second to red in primitive languages. In China yellow has been employed as a regal and sacred color. Pure yellow is emblematic of gaiety, warmth, richness, sanctity and divine origin.
Figuratively speaking, yellow sometimes means cowardly and is so used in the expression, "yellow streak." It has a sensational value as "yellow journalism." It has been used in the British Navy as meaning the rank of Rear Admiral but unattached to a squadron.
Mongolian is spoken of as the yellow race and some illnesses are called yellow, as jaundice. We also hear it referred to in age, as yellow with age.
In heraldry and in ecclesiastical symbolism yellow is frequently used in place of gold. In heraldry it is known as "OR," and is indicated by a plain white field, powdered with black dots.
In metals it is represented by gold and brass. In precious stones it represents the topaz.
In Stardom it is the color of Ruth, and symbolizes constancy, teaching faithful obedience to the demands of honor and justice.
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WHITE
The color white symbolizes light, purity, truth, chastity, innocence, peace, modesty and virginity. It is synonymous in many cases to "unchanged and unadulterated." The ancient Druids, and, indeed the priests generally of antiquity, used to wear white vestments, as do the clergy of the Established Church of England when they officiate in any sacred service. The Magi also wore white robes. The white vestments of priests are emblematic of peace and purity and this color is used at many religious festivals. Worn by the judiciary, it symbolizes integrity. The white lily is dedicated to virginity, truth, purity and innocence. In liturgy, white signifies purity, temperance and innocence. As a background for the figures of saints it signifies chastity.
The head of Osiris, in Egypt, was adorned with a white tiara; all his ornaments were white and his priests were clad in white. White was sacred to Jupiter. White horses drew his chariot and white animals were sacrificed by consuls who were clothed in white and wore hats of white. The victims of Jupiter also wore white. The priests of Jupiter and the Flamen Dialis of Rome wore white robes and white hats.
The Roman festivals were marked with white chalk and at the death of Caesar the national mourning was white. In China white is also a symbol of mourning. White horses were sacrificed to the sun. White oxen were selected for sacrifice by the Druids and white elephants were held sacred in Siam or
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Thailand. The Persians affirm that the divinities were habited in white.
The whiteness and value of the pearl has extended its use in symbolism. When some metals are heated the extreme point before melting is called white heat.
A white object is white because it does not select colors, but simply reflects all the waves of color which happen to fall on it.
In heraldry it is represented by silver or argent, abbreviated "AR" or "ARG," and is shown as a plain white field.
In Stardom, white is the color appropriate to Esther, and is a symbol of light, purity and joy. It should teach us that a pure and upright life is above any tongue of reproach.
GREEN
The word green is derived from the ancient Anglo‑Saxon root word meaning "to grow." The prevailing color of vegetation is green, owing to the presence of chlorophyll in all external tissues not turned to wood or bark. The color green is found in the spectrum between blue and yellow and can be made by blending these two colors.
Green is indicative of life, keeping memory alive. This color name is found in comparatively few languages of lower civilizations. In a few instances in early history green has been a sacred color. Olive green is symbolical of solitude and peace. Pale green has been used in the church to symbolize baptism.
Because green is the color of growing and immature plants, the term is occasionally applied to per‑
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sons, and when thus used, it means lacking in knowledge and experience.
"The Wearing of the Green" is an Irish patriotic and revolutionary song dating from 1798. Green was the emblematic color adopted by the Irish nationalists. It is the sacred color of the Mohammadans, who carry the green flag and the background of whose prayer rugs is always green, let the design worked into the fabric be what it may. Saturn is crowned with evergreen and the hair and garments of Neptune, the Dryads and the Naiads are dyed with green. Many consider the evergreen, associated with Christian Christmas, alludes to the everlasting memory of Christ's birth.
In the language of symbolism, green is the color of faith, gladness, immortality, the resurrection of the just and the gladness of the faithful.
In blazonry, "vert" or green, signifies love, joy, abundance, and it is engraved by diagonal lines drawn from dexter chief to sinister base, or from left bottom to top right.
In art it signifies hope, joy, spring and youth. Among the Greeks and Moors it signifies victory.
In Church decoration it signifies God's country, mirth, gladness, the resurrection, and is used with blue for regular Sundays.
In metals it is represented by copper.
In precious stones it is represented by the emerald. In the planets it stands for Venus.
In Stardom, it is the Star Point color for Martha and signifies hope and immortality.
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RED
Red is the seventh color in the spectrum. In nearly all primitive languages red appears, and in general is the first color name to appear. Red is relatively rare in nature and therefore it attracts attention. In the Greek Church, red is favored for Lent. It is prominent in the Chinese religion and customs and is used by this race for the marriage service.
Red is a stimulating color. It has a revolutionary meaning, especially when applied to revolutionary socialism. It has almost the significance of a proper name when applied to those of titian hair. As such it is a common nickname.
Red pertains to the North Pole of a magnet. In archery it is the innermost circle of a target.
The origin of the color red may be found in the sun. It is as old as that star and perhaps even older. How old is the red of the rainbow? As old as the colors of the spectrum. Red is as old as the earth it‑self, and older. We cannot trace its origin to its beginnings, but if the colors of the rainbow are among the first elements of nature, red was among them.
From "The Language of Color," by M. Luckiesh: "Many symbols and uses of red have often arisen from an association with blood, and thus red some‑times represents health, tragedy, anger and allied attributes. Red has symbolized fire, heat, war, cruelty and hatred, power and destruction." On the other hand, red and white roses in the garland of Saint Cecelia apparently signify love and innocence. Aurora is called the rosy fingered Goddess of Dawn.
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Red occurs in the national flags of many nations and is one of the three colors in our Stars and Stripes. A red cross is the symbol of the world's greatest organization for work of mercy, the Red Cross.
In the planets it stands for Mars.
In heraldry it is known as gules, abbreviated "GU." It is expressed by parallel lines drawn "in pale" or perpendicular.
In jewels it is represented by the ruby.
In Stardom, red is the color appropriate to Electa and is a symbol of the fervency which should actuate all who are engaged in the service of truth.
"It's what you think that makes your world Seem dull or bright to you; Your mind can color all things gay, Or make of them bright hue.
Be glad today, be clear and wise, Seek truth amid the dross; Waste neither time nor thought about The bridge you'll never cross."
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ADAH THE LESSON OF THE DAUGHTER
Let me state in the beginning that the name of Adah does not appear in the Bible, that she is always referred to as Jephthah's daughter, and that "Adah" was the name given her by the founder of our Order, Dr. Robert Morris.
The story of Adah is based upon the tragedy of a race that forgot God. It was in the 12th Century, B.C., that Israel had strayed away from God, had practiced idolatry and in every way showed their contempt for His laws; and for their sins God had delivered them into the hands of their enemies, the Ammonites and the Philistines, who laid waste to their country.
In the midst of this calamity Jephthah, a born organizer and leader, who had been made an outcast in his own country in a family feud, gathered a formidable army of men of a similar social standing (beggars, thieves and outlaws) and by a rigid training brought them under the strictest discipline, and thus became an expert in the tactics of warfare.
After suffering severe calamities, Israel put away their idols and strange gods, and humbled them‑selves before the God of heaven and besought Him with prayers and sacrifices to deliver them from the hand of the enemy. And the Lord whose ear is ever open to the cry of His children, heard them and sent them a deliverer. They had an army, untrained and without a leader, and it was at this crisis that
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the elders of Israel, some of them even were Jephthah's brothers, went to Jephthah and implored him to be their leader. This was a bitter pill for these brothers to approach an outcast member of their family, but in a case of absolute necessity family feuds must be forgotten and even principles must be reevaluated.
Jephthah himself was greatly surprised, and it required considerable persuasion to secure his assistance, because his prejudices had been deeply grounded, and "the stone which the builders had rejected was become the headstone of the corner," even against the old Jewish law which would have forbidden him to rule the nation because of his lowly birth. And so a solemn compact was entered into whereby if Jephthah should be victorious over their enemies, he was to become the recognized leader of the nation.
Now Jephthah realized that of his own power and strength he could not accomplish the task that lay before him, and so he besought the Lord to help him with prayers and sacrifices. And then a mighty thing happened; the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah, and he no longer attempted to make peace with his enemies by sending messengers back and forth, but he marshaled his forces and passed in triumphant tread to face them in open battle.
And then came this memorable vow. We are impressed with his statement to the Ammonites when he said: "Jehovah, the Judge, be judge this day between the children of Israel and the children of
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Ammon." It was at the altar in Mizpah, it would seem, that he went and made a solemn vow to the Lord and said: "If thou wilt indeed deliver the children of Ammon into my hand, then it shall be, that whosoever cometh forth from the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, it shall be Jehovah's, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering." Now why was this vow made? Did his faith falter at the last moment - did it seem incredible that God should use him in his deliverance of the Israelites from their enemy? Or was it a mere expression of a grateful heart for blessings received? The battle followed. The enemy was pursued into the very heart of their country. Twenty cities were conquered, and the whole country completely subdued. But at what price! Jephthah was soon to realize the truth of what the victory would cost him. That vow! We can well picture him as he returns in triumph to Mizpah. No doubt in a brazen chariot, accompanied by armor‑clad warriors, and the streets filled with a joyous and jubilant people.
But how soon a joyous victory was to be returned into grief and distress. True at heart in adversity, he was also true in prosperity, and the vow he had made when he besought the strong arm of the Lord was not lost to him when he beheld his beloved daughter, the very core of his heart, his idolized child, rush out to greet him in his triumphant entry, and the vow he had uttered flashed across his mind.
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Jephthah presents a noble example of fidelity to his word, for he never for one moment entertained the thought of trying to avoid the fulfillment of his vow. We are deeply impressed by the overwhelming grief of Jephthah and the noble self‑sacrifice of his daughter Adah, and her courageous resignation to her fate. Jephthah's daughter arose at once to the grandeur of her situation and bade her father keep his promise. She made one humble request: "Let me alone two months, that I may depart and go down to the mountains, I and my companions." Can you not picture this small group of young women, as they spent these days together? What did they talk about? What thoughts rushed through their minds? At the end of the allotted time they came slowly down the side of the mountain through the narrow passes and gorges to the altar which had been erected. In the dim vista of the past we can almost see that little group of the fairest of the Kingdom as they approached the place where Adah was to give her life as a sacrifice for her father's vow unto the Lord. This she did gladly for the freedom of her country which she faithfully believed was in answer to that vow, made in a time of deepest distress and doubt.
According to the Levitical law some sacrifices could be redeemed by the payment of money, but not one made like Jephthah's. Not by the sacrifice of animals; in fact, there seemed to be no exchange. Not even as in the case of Abraham, where God pro‑
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vided a lamb to take the place of Isaac in the sacrifice. Jephthah's case was different; no sacrifice had been required or requested, he had offered it freely of his own accord. Yet when his daughter came to meet him in all the innocent beauty and purity of her young womanhood, what wonder that he ex‑claimed in anguish, "Alas, my daughter!" But even in all the horror and anguish that smote him he did not hesitate to say: "I have opened my mouth unto the Lord, and I can not go back." That daughter must have been divinely prepared for her father's statement; at least she seems not to have evinced any surprise. The records do not show it. A worthy daughter of a worthy father. Without even a sigh she flashed back: "My father, if thou halt opened thy mouth unto the Lord, do to me according to that which has proceeded out of thy mouth." The daughter was prepared fully. She approached the altar fearlessly. She knew her father, and she freely gave her life into his hands.
Those two months that she had spent in communion with Jehovah prepared her for the great surrender of her life and she met it in the clear light of the day, with her eyes unclouded by the veil of darkness as was the custom.
Whether right or wrong, Jephthah kept his word, notwithstanding the great sacrifice he was called upon to pay in the loss of his only child his be‑loved daughter.
For hundreds of years the maidens of Israel went yearly to the mountains of Gilead for four days to
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commemorate the historic sacrifice of the daughter of Jephthah.
But for sweet Adah, weep not, let the word be: "Joy to the captive, freed from earthly dust, Joy for one witness more to woman's trust, And lasting honor, Mizpah be the strain To her who died in the light without a stain."
JEPHTHAH'S DAUGHTER
On the hills of Mizpah bloomed the mountain maid, Blue the skies above her where she strayed; As the light gazelle she scaled the rocky slope, Adah, child of love and hope.
Gone from the mountain, lost to her home, Called in life's beauty to the tomb; Wake the wild lamenting in lonely glen, She will never come again.
Glad was her upraising, when, with maiden mirth And merry timbre], she came forth; But, alas, the death march! day of utter gloom! 'Twas the signal of her doom.
0, the grand deliverance of mountain maid! "Keep the vow, my father," thus she said; "Shall a Mason's daughter fear for truth to die? There's a home beyond the sky." From the hills of Mizpah, let her story rise - "Death before dishonor" - to the skies; While seasons blossom on mountain free, Adah, we will weep for thee!
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She will not die as thief or murderer dies, Whose fate but expiates his horrid crime; She will not veil her pure and loving eyes, As fearing death, hers is death sublime; Lo, with determined heart and eye she stands, Her face upturned toward Celestial lands.
See, midst the multitude the victim stands, Dauntless, serene, though terror palsies them! And she must die by her own father's hands! And she must die a sacrifice of shame.
Of shame? Ah, no! She flings the veil abroad, Once, twice, yea thrice; looks hopefully to God; Fixes noonday sun with earnest eyes, Then crowned with innocence the maiden dies. Lament for Jephthah, ye who know his fate, Weep and lament; broken the beautiful rod, And the strong staff; Mizpah is desolate! But for sweet Adah weep not; let the word Be "Joy to the Captive, freed from earthly dust, Joy for the witness more to woman's trust, And lasting honor, Mizpah, be the strain To her who dies in light without a stain." - Robert Morris.
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ADAH
This introduction is to be given by the Worthy Matron The heroines of our Order are women of the Bible whose virtues we must emulate in our lives in order to serve God and our fellow men. From the history of Adah, Jephthah's daughter, we learn the lesson of keeping our promises. To get a better understanding, let us glean the pages of biblical history. In the Book of Judges is a very fine description of Jephthah's character and the heroism of his daughter, Adah.
The Israelites had settled in Canaan, and after Joshua's death were ruled by judges. These judges settled the peoples' disputes and also took the place of generals, leading them in battle. The twelve tribes were united in a loose confederacy, and when a very strong, powerful enemy menaced any one or several of the tribes, the others would come to their aid.
At this time the children of Ammon were en‑camped in Gilead to fight against the tribes of Judah, Ephraim and Benjamin. The princes of Gilead be‑sought Jephthah, a great warrior, to lead them in battle against the children of Ammon. Jephthah was an outcast from the home of his brethren and lived the life of an outlaw. His bravery and daring won him many followers. He answers the request of the elders of the princes of Gilead in an independent manner, for which we can hardly blame him.
This introduction is followed by a musical selection, piano or violin.
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Some members, preferably brothers, give the conversation of the chief of the elders and Jephthah. A curtain (or screens) is stretched across the back of the hall so that the two doors can serve as entrances and exits. The men may wear robes made of inexpensive material, or they need not robe. The elders, led by their chief, enter from one door and Jephthah appears from the other. They meet and the chief of the elders addresses Jephthah. Three or four brothers should accompany the chief of elders. Upon meeting each other, Jephthah and the elders bow. In the Eastern countries people are very courteous in their salutation; when no reference is made to the manner of saluting in the Bible, it is so understood.
CHIEF OF THE ELDERS: Come and be our chief, that we may fight with the children of Ammon.
JEPHTHAH: Did not ye hate me, and drive me out of my father's house? Why are ye now come unto me when ye are in distress? CHIEF OF ELDERS: Wherefore are we returned to thee now, that thou mayest go with us and fight with the children of Ammon, and thou shalt be our head over all the inhabitants of Gilead.
JEPHTHAH: If ye bring me back home to fight with the children of Ammon, and the Lord deliver them before me, I will be your head.
ELDERS (answer in unison) : The Lord shall be witness be
