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The Egyptian style of architecture was used for the exterior of the Temple for several reasons. The first and most obvious in that it gives a monumental dignified appearance. With the Egyptian style, inscriptions and figures appear on almost every surface and it was possible to include Masonic symbols without detracting from the overall appearance.

overdoorEgyptian structures were many times built in honor of the Egyptian God Horus, described as the God of Light of Life and usually depicted as a double-headed feathered serpent and solar disc. This device can be found on the cornice of the Temple with a Square and Compasses superimposed on the solar disc. This emblem is also used on the gates of the funeral exit on the west side of the Temple. Normally, the gates are closed and the Symbol of Life is intact, but to open the Gates for a Mason’s funeral procession, the symbol is separated and signifies a break in the life span of a Master Mason. On the lintel above this gateway is carved an Egyptian Scarab, an ancient device signifying immortality.

ScarabEven, finished courses of ashlars of Utah granite form the Temple’s base and stairways. They are rectangular stones and contrast with the cornerstone, which is as it should be, a cubical stone. This stone is located in the northeast corner of the Temple and has one exposed face of rough ashlar and the other of finished ashlar, upon which is the proper Masonic inscription. Within the cornerstone, a sealed copper receptacle contains mementos of then current Masonic interest.

The temple proper is three stories high, starting at the first floor, and rests on the base or ground story. These three stories are significant of the three degrees of Masonry, and contain all the tiled and ritualistic rooms, as well as administrative offices.

– Condensed from additional comments by the Architect.

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