Why Latter-day Saints Do Not Wear Crosses but Use Green Aprons in Their Temple Rituals

The question “why do Latter-day Saints not wear crosses but use green aprons during their temple rituals?” is often asked, leading to discussions about the history and symbolism of these practices. While some believe that the resemblances are obvious, it is important to understand the meaning and purpose behind the rituals and symbols used in Latter-day Saint temples.

Dispelling the Allegation of Plagiarism

One common misconception is that Latter-day Saint temple rituals were plagiarized from Freemasonry. This is a flawed assumption. While it is true that Freemasonry is not a religion, it is misguided to claim that Latter-day Saint temple rituals were directly copied from Masonic ceremonies. In fact, the green apron used during the endowment ceremony has a distinct meaning that differs from the symbolism in Masonry.

Symbolism of the Green Apron

The green apron worn during the Latter-day Saint temple ritual is not a direct copy of the Masonic green apron. Rather, it is a metaphor representing the human experience in the mortal world. This simple, unadorned green apron is a symbol of the fig leaves that Adam and Eve wore after being expelled from the Garden of Eden, which covered their nakedness and symbolized their awareness of their sinfulness.

The apron is embroidered with nine leaves, each representing a part of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. These leaves symbolize the enticements of the flesh and how they manifest in our lives.

Why Not Crosses?

While some Christians wear crosses as a symbol of their faith, not all do. The cross is a significant symbol in Christian theology, representing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the sins of humankind. However, Latter-day Saints also have their own symbols and rituals that reflect their unique theological beliefs.

Some argue that the green apron is a direct copy from Masonic rituals, but it actually represents a different set of theological and spiritual concepts. The cross, on the other hand, is a heavily symbolic object that holds deep meaning in many Christian denominations. However, for some Latter-day Saints, the cross may not be seen as a fitting symbol due to its association with particular religious beliefs.

The Purpose of the Green Apron in the Endowment Ceremony

The green apron serves as a reminder of the human nature and the struggles we face in this mortal existence. It represents the natural world, which is in contrast to the purity symbolized by the white clothing worn in the temple. The apron, therefore, is a reminder that our physical and spiritual journeys are interconnected. The nine leaves on the apron symbolize the enticements and challenges we face, and how we respond to them.

Furthermore, the green apron is part of the broader endowment ceremony, which is a sacred ritual that teaches members of the Church about their mortal and eternal purpose. It is a deeply personal and meaningful experience, but it is not open to the public for several reasons, including the preservation of sacredness and the importance of retention and accessibility to the teachings.

Conclusion

Understanding the symbols and rituals used in Latter-day Saint temples is essential for appreciating the depth of their beliefs and practices. While the green apron may resemble the Masonic apron in appearance, its meaning and symbolism are distinct and derived from unique theological perspectives. This distinction is important to remember when discussing these practices, as they reflect a rich and complex spiritual tradition.

Keywords: Latter-day Saints, Freemasonry, Green Apron