4

Mathematically, 4 is a highly distinctive number. It is the first composite number, signifying the smallest
number expressible as the product of two non-identical factors. This sets it apart in the realm of basic
arithmetic. Furthermore, 4 is the only number with the same number of characters as its value in the
English language, a unique linguistic attribute. In geometry, the number 4 is foundational, representing
the number of sides in a quadrilateral, the simplest form of a polygon that can embody diverse shapes like
squares, rectangles, and trapezoids.

As a composite number, it is the product of the smallest prime numbers, 2 and 2, making it the first square
number after 1. This gives it a fundamental role in the study of number theory. Furthermore, in the binary
system, foundational to computer science, 4 is represented as 100, illustrating the progression of
exponential growth in base-2 systems.

Culturally, the number 4 exhibits a dual nature. In Western societies, it is often associated with stability
and order, reflected in expressions like "four corners of the earth" or "four seasons." These associations
underscore a sense of completeness and universality. Conversely, in Eastern cultures, particularly in East
Asia, 4 is often associated with misfortune or death due to its phonetic similarity to the word for death in
languages like Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. This leads to its frequent omission in numbering floors in
buildings, akin to the Western aversion to the number 13.

In symbolism and mythology, 4 carries diverse meanings. In many traditions, it symbolizes the earth or
material completeness, often represented in four elements (earth, air, fire, water) and four cardinal
directions (north, south, east, west). In religious contexts, such as in Buddhism and Christianity, the
number 4 is recurrent, symbolizing aspects of spiritual teachings and cosmic order.

Symbolically, the number 4 is rich in meaning. In many religious and spiritual contexts, it represents
completeness, stability, and the grounding of the world. In Christianity, there are four Gospels, each
offering a different perspective on the life of Jesus Christ. In Hinduism, there are four aims of human life
known as the Purusharthas: Dharma (duty), Artha (wealth), Kama (desire), and Moksha (liberation). In
Buddhism, the Four Noble Truths form the core of Buddha's teachings. In Indigenous cultures, such as
those of the Native Americans, four is often sacred, representing the four cardinal directions and elements
of nature. This highlights a universal tendency to use the number 4 as a means of structuring and
understanding the world.

In the context of Freemasonry, the number 4 holds special significance, resonating with the craft's
rich symbolism and philosophical underpinnings:

1. In Freemasonry, the number 4 is often associated with the four cardinal virtues that are
essential to a Mason's moral and spiritual life. These are Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence,
and Justice. These virtues are foundational to Masonic teachings and are expected to be
embodied by every Mason in their daily lives.
2. Four Perfect Points of Entrance: These are the guidelines for a Mason's behavior and are
symbolized by the Gut, Garter, Penknife, and Compasses. They represent the manner in
which a candidate is prepared for initiation, symbolizing a transformation from the profane
to the sacred.
3. In Masonic lodges, architectural elements often incorporate the number 4. This can be seen
in the layout of the lodge itself, which often includes four sides, reflecting stability and
strength. This is analogous to the importance of the number 4 in actual masonry and
architecture, where a four-sided structure is fundamental for creating a sturdy and
balanced edifice.
4. In some Masonic rituals and lodge rooms, the four tassels represent the four cardinal
virtues, the four cardinal points (North, South, East, West), and also the universality of
Freemasonry.
The use of the number 4 in Masonry goes beyond mere symbolism; it is imbued with philosophical
and ethical implications. It encourages Masons to strive for balance, order, and symmetry in their
personal and moral development. By embodying the virtues and principles associated with the
number 4, Masons aim to build a more harmonious and ethical society.

What Stoics said about it:

Human beings are of four types:

1. A man who knows, and knows that he knows. This is the scholar, so take and patiently learn from
him.

2. A man who knows, but does not know that he knows. This one has forgotten, so quietly remind
him.

3. A man who does not know, and knows that he does not know. This one is a student, so teach him
continuously because he will be a great scholar one day.

4. A man who does not know, and does not know that he does not know and isn’t even interested in
knowing. This one is an idiot, so reject him".

If you have any other ideas for 4, I look forward to hearing from you!