The Ashlar reprents a Mason going through his journey as a Mason. As a new Mason they are rough, the hope is once a Mason answers the call of the Great Architect of the Universe he will be the perfect.
Historically the altar is where people made sacrifices to commune with their Deity. In Freemasonry it is where masons, who commune with the Grand Architect of the Universe, can all together commune with deity.
The Holy Bible (or any religious text) is placed in the center of the lodge on the altar. It is a a guide for masons to have questions answered if they cannot find them in the world.
Freemasonry is not a religious fraternity but rather a…