3. The Great Seal: The pyramid and the “all seeing eye” (Reverse Side)
The Egyptian pyramid is a symbol of strength and duration; the 13 steps indicate the original number of U.S. states; and the 13 steps leading to an unfinished summit indicates future growth of the nation. The eye is known as the “Eye of Providence” and is surrounded by rays of light. According to Webster’s New World College Dictionary, “providence” can mean:
1. a looking to, or preparation for, the future; provision.
2. skill or wisdom in management; prudence.
3. a) the care or benevolent guidance of God or nature, b) an instance of this.
4. God, as the guiding power of the universe.
There are many who believe that the “all-seeing eye” is a Freemasonry symbol, a fraternal organization, and they interpret this as proof that the Founding Fathers believed in Masonic principles and wanted to impose Masonic order on the United States.
