Deus Nobis Sol et Scutum

"God is our Sun and our Shield"

Smith's Pocket Companion was mostly a simple reprint of Anderson's 1723 Constitutions, necessitated by the growth of the fraternity and the desire of Masons for a handbook. Although W. Bro. Anderson was displeased by the imitation, the Pocket-Companions proved to be popular and were frequently expanded.

The Latin attending the image (on the title page) is from Psalm 84:11. Masonic sources often emphasize the Sun as a philosophical symbol.

Features of this image which should not be overlooked are the possible Royal Arch motif in the lower part of the picture as well as the peculiar scene to which the hand of the figure on the left is pointing.

Notes by Shawn Eyer, P∴M∴