Squares and the Squared Circle

With four right angles and four equal sides, a square285 is an important geometrical shape attached to various symbolisms. Perhaps for this reason, both ancient and modern temples feature squares; some are practical in design and others are purely ornamental. A multitude of our temples feature square designs, patterns, and figures on either exterior architectural components or interior spaces. The Mosaic tabernacle and Solomon’s temple featured many squares—the altars (sacrificial and incense) were built in the form of a perfect square (referring to the width and length); the Holy of Holies of both the Mosaic tabernacle and Solomon’s temple formed a perfect cube, with a three-dimensional, symmetrical shape—six equal squares.

Squared circle—the circular font rests on the backs of the twelve oxen, which face the four cardinal directions (thus forming a square).

Also, a square communicates the idea of the earth, with its four corners. “Four corners” of the earth is a scriptural term (Isa. 11:12; Acts 10:11; Rev. 7:1; D&C 124:3), which pertains to all individuals who live on the earth; thus Isaiah wrote, “He shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth” (Isa. 11:12; see also D&C 124:3).

Squared circles, or circles located within a square, are architectural symbols that belong to many temples. Inasmuch as a circle expresses the idea of eternity (or heaven) and a square may be interpreted to signify the earth (and its inhabitants),286 then a squared circle seems to point the meeting of heaven and earth. A significant example of a squared circle is the molten sea of Solomon’s temple and also the baptismal font of our temples. The twelve oxen form a square, and the font that rests on their backs generally form a circle: The twelve oxen face outward to the four cardinal directions—east, south, west, and north—or to the four corners of the earth (hence, forming a square).

Squared Circle, Las Vegas Temple.