Beyond this however, the Alchemists were true philosophers who used symbols and drawings extensively in their teachings and who insisted on strict secrecy from their initiates. They believed that with the proper mixture of chemicals and methods base metals such as iron and lead could be turned into gold and silver. The Alchemists were a group of mystics who first appeared in the 12th century and were the forerunners of our modern chemists.
It is from the medieval European science of Alchemy that the first uses of the moon in the graphic and ritualistic manner that Masons are accustomed to derive their meaning. In fact, the monthly offerings to the moon found in Numbers 28:11-15 are still read in some Jewish synagogues. In Genesis 1:14-19, we are told that on the fourth day of creation, "God made two great lights the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night." Despite the specific prohibitions against lunar worship in Deuteronomy and the Book of Kings, the moon was still regarded as a strong symbol of permanence and regularity associated with its usage to measure the passage of time. Our direct Masonic tradition regarding the moon begins with the ancient Hebrews. It thus behooves us to take a moment to remember the moon and its long association with the Craft and its origins. However, for Masons, and particularly Vermont Masons, the moon has not just been a symbolic light in our ritualistic teaching but also a literal light to our brethren of long ago. While astronomers view the moon with the analytical eye of science, the moon has been a focal point for cultures around the world throughout history and has inspired music, poetry and religion alike. There is no more spectacular reminder of our Masonic historical and ritualistic heritage than the moon at its height of fullness.