What Are the Five Points of the Order of the Eastern Star?
The Order of the Eastern Star is a society open to Freemasons holding the rank of Master Mason and the female relatives of Masons. The Bible forms the basis for its teachings, and its multicolored star-shaped logo has five points which symbolically represent character-building lessons exemplified by significant female biblical figures.
1 Adah, the Blue Point
The blue point of the star symbolizes faithfulness, as exemplified by Adah, the name Dr. Morris, founder of the Order of the Eastern Star gave to Jephthah's daughter, according to Grand Chapter of Massachusetts. In the Book of Judges, Jephthah makes a promise to God that upon his victorious return from battle, he will sacrifice as a burnt offering the first person or creature that emerges from his house. Adah is the person who emerges and, though distressed, agrees to be sacrificed as a sign of faith and in order to keep the honor of her father intact.
2 Ruth, the Yellow Point
The yellow point of the star symbolizes fidelity, as exemplified by Ruth. Ruth is a convert to Judiasm whose husband, brother-in-law and father-in-law die, leaving her alone with Naomi, her mother-in-law and fellow widow. When Naomi decides to return to her home in Bethlehem, Ruth decides to accompany her for the rest of her days, despite being under no obligation to do so.
3 Esther, the White Point
The white point of the star symbolizes purity and joy, as exemplified by Esther. Esther is a Jewish woman selected by the ruler of a Persian empire to become his queen. She does not reveal her religion to the king. When the king's prime minister institutes a plan to exterminate all the Jews in the empire, Esther intercedes with the king, risking her life in the process. She prevents the massacre and institutes the joyous annual holiday known as Purim to the empire.
4 Martha, the Green Point
The green point of the star symbolizes immortality, as exemplified by Martha of Bethany in the Gospel of John. Martha is the sister of Lazarus. When she meets Jesus, she laments her brother's passing. When Jesus asks Martha if she believes that her brother will rise again, Martha answers that she does, and that she believes that Jesus is the son of God. They go to visit Lazarus' tomb, and when they remove the stone, find him alive and well.
5 Electa, the Red Point
The red point of the star symbolizes charity and hospitality, as exemplified by Electa of the Second Epistle of John. No specific account is given of this woman in the Bible, but John's letter is addressed to "the elect lady and her children." The addressee is commended for her piety and charity.
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