Pythagoras of Samos, Acacia's Mentor.
Pythagoras, Acacia's Mentor. Born 585 BC in Samos, Greece and died 507 BC in Metapontum. He studied geometry, philosophy, ethics, astronomy, and music, set up the Pythagorean Institute, and travelled the world to study with the world's most learned individuals.
What Does "Acacia" Mean? Why Don't You Have Greek Letters?

The "Acacia", or "AKAKIA" spelled in Greek, is an ancient Greek symbol with many meanings. The meaning runs deep for all Acacians and Masons who truly understand the meaning behind it. Having been founded by 14 Master Masons, our Fraternity was given the name Acacia as opposed to a series of Greek letters because they knew that this fraternity would always stand out above the rest. We are unique, and so is our name.

For many fraternities, their series of two or three Greek letters that compose their name are an abvreviation for a motto or for their mentor. It is often kept secret for their own purposes. While the symbolism of "Acacia" has been well known since ancient times, the true philisophical meaning of the word can only be felt by and known to those who have been initiated into our brotherhood.
The Six Meanings of Acacia:

  • AKAKIA is a Greek word which, according to earliest known history, has been used to designate Distinctiveness and Leadership among Mankind. The original Greek spelling of Acacia is with a "K" (Kappa) instead of an Arabic "C".
  • AKAKIA has also been used to designate the Spirit of Immortality of Survival of the Soul, and reminds us of the need to live a life always mindful of the Immortality of the Soul.
  • AKAKIA is the name of a Far Eastern Evergreen which survived the seasons and grew and thrived in barren lands, ever standing out as A Symbol of Strength and Ruggedness: reminding us that we too, as individuals, should be lastingly mindful of the inspiration to be strong and rugged: to face the problems of life as Acacians and representatives of our Fraternity and our University.
  • AKAKIA trees indicate A Truly Masculine State Having The Power To Pollenize and Perpetuate Life. We too, as Acacians, should impart strength and protection to the weak, and use our education and associations for the good of all.
  • AKAKIA has a ritualistic significance in the Age-Old Order to which the Fraternity owes its Herritage. This order has ever held for the Freedom of the Individual to commune with his God and to Him alone be accountable. As mortal men we are reminded to live our lives so that when called before God we can without a qualm account for our conduct as Men among those with whom we have traveled along life's pathway.
  • AKAKIA is Our Fraternity. It is ever reminding us of our duty to its age-honored symbolic meanings, and our responsibilities as Acacians toward those with whom we associate.