The “Sign of Admiration” is a mode of recognition referenced in the Most Excellent Master's Degree, which is the Sixth Degree of the American Rite. This sign is associated with a Masonic legend connected to the visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon.
According to the legend, the Queen of Sheba traveled to Jerusalem to witness the renowned magnificence of Solomon's Temple, which had garnered widespread acclaim. Upon seeing the Temple for the first time, which was described as glittering with gold and perfectly adjusted to appear as a single piece of marble, she raised her hands and eyes to heaven in an expression of admiration and exclaimed, “Rabboni!”—meaning “A most excellent master hath done this!” This act of admiration is commemorated in the ceremonies of the Most Excellent Master Degree.
It should be noted that the authenticity of this legend is debated, and it is generally considered allegorical, as are many of the legends in Freemasonry (see Sheba, Queen of).