Freemasonry

A fraternal organization that traces its origins to the local fraternities of stonemasons that from the end of the 14th century regulated the qualifications of masons and their interaction with authorities and clients.

Core Teachings

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that employs symbolic tools and allegorical rituals to teach moral and philosophical lessons. It promotes self-improvement, brotherhood, and service to humanity.

This tradition evolved from medieval stonemasons' guilds into a philosophical system focused on ethics, personal growth, and charitable work. It maintains a system of initiation rituals rich in symbolism derived from architectural tools, ancient wisdom traditions, and biblical narratives.

At its core, Freemasonry promotes virtues such as truth, charity, and brotherly love. Members are encouraged to pursue moral excellence while respecting diverse beliefs. The organization is not a religion but requires belief in a Supreme Being, often referred to as the "Grand Architect of the Universe," allowing men of various faiths to participate together.

Key Symbols

  • The Square and Compass
  • The Letter G
  • The All-Seeing Eye

Notable Figures

  • George Washington
  • Benjamin Franklin
  • Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
  • Mark Twain
  • Oscar Wilde

The Three Degrees

Traditional Craft Freemasonry consists of three primary degrees, each representing a stage in the Mason's journey toward moral and spiritual enlightenment. Each degree includes an initiation ritual filled with symbolic elements and teachings:

Entered Apprentice

The first degree focuses on birth and beginnings. The candidate symbolically moves from darkness to light, representing the start of Masonic knowledge. Key symbols include the rough ashlar (unworked stone), representing the initiate's unrefined nature, and the 24-inch gauge, teaching the proper division of time between work, rest, and service.

Fellow Craft

The second degree symbolizes adulthood and education. It emphasizes the importance of liberal arts and sciences in developing the mind. Central symbols include the winding staircase, representing progressive advancement in knowledge, and the pillars Boaz and Jachin, symbolizing strength and establishment, as described in the biblical Temple of Solomon.

Master Mason

The third degree deals with death and rebirth. It centers around the legend of Hiram Abiff, the chief architect of Solomon's Temple, teaching lessons about fidelity to one's principles even in the face of death. The perfect ashlar (smoothed stone) represents the Master Mason's refined character, while the trowel symbolizes the spreading of brotherly love that unites Masons into a harmonious community.

Historical Development

Operative to Speculative (1300s-1700s)

Freemasonry evolved from guilds of actual stonemasons who built medieval cathedrals and castles. By the late 17th century, these guilds began accepting non-masons ("accepted" or "speculative" Masons) interested in the philosophical aspects of the craft. The transition was complete with the formation of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717.

Expansion and Growth (1700s-1800s)

Masonry spread rapidly throughout Europe and to the American colonies, attracting intellectuals, aristocrats, and merchants. The ideals of brotherhood and enlightenment resonated with Enlightenment-era thinkers. Various additional degrees and rites developed, including the Scottish and York Rites.

Golden Age and Challenges (1800s-1900s)

The 19th century saw Freemasonry's greatest popularity, with lodges established worldwide. However, it also faced opposition from religious institutions, particularly the Catholic Church, and political movements concerned about its secrecy and influence. The Anti-Masonic Party even emerged briefly in American politics.

Modern Era (1900s-Present)

While membership peaked in the mid-20th century and has since declined in many countries, Freemasonry continues as a significant fraternal organization worldwide. Today's Masons emphasize charitable work, self-improvement, and fellowship, while working to preserve their traditions and adapt to changing social contexts.

Masonic Symbolism

Freemasonry communicates its teachings through an intricate system of symbols derived from architectural tools, geometry, and ancient traditions. These symbols carry multiple layers of meaning that are progressively revealed to members through ritual and contemplation.

The Square and Compass, the most recognizable Masonic emblem, represents the interplay between matter (square) and spirit (compass). The square teaches Masons to act with moral rectitude toward all humanity, while the compass reminds them to circumscribe their desires and maintain proper boundaries in all actions.

The letter "G" often found between the Square and Compass has dual meanings: Geometry, considered the most essential science for understanding the order of the universe, and God (or Grand Architect), the supreme being at the center of Masonic reverence. Other important symbols include the all-seeing eye (divine watchfulness), the checkered pavement (duality of human existence), and acacia (immortality of the soul).

G

Appendant Bodies

  • Scottish Rite

    A system of 29 additional degrees (4°-33°) beyond the Master Mason degree, organized into philosophical teachings about human knowledge and character development.

  • York Rite

    Three separate bodies (Chapter, Council, and Commandery) conferring degrees emphasizing Judeo-Christian traditions, particularly the Temple of Solomon and Christian knighthood.

  • Shriners

    The Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, known for charitable work, especially their children's hospitals, and their distinctive red fezzes.

  • Order of the Eastern Star

    A Masonic-affiliated organization open to both men and women, with rituals based on biblical female heroines and teachings of service and charity.

"We represent a fraternity which believes in justice and truth and honorable action in your community... men who are endeavoring to be better citizens... to make a great country greater."— Harry S. Truman, 33° Freemason