Unveiling Freemasonry's Legacy and Secrecy

Freemasonry, a fraternal organization with roots stretching back almost 300 years, is often misunderstood and maligned due to its secretive nature and complex rituals. This article aims to clear the air and provide a clear perspective on what Freemasonry entails, debunking common misconceptions and highlighting the organization's open and benevolent nature.

The Myth and the Reality

Recently, a post emerged that questioned why Freemasons and potential candidates had to be so secretive and sneaky, even claiming it had soured a 40-year marriage. This).

Freemasonry: A Long History

Freemasonry is not a secretive, clandestine organization. It is a fraternal organization with some practices and traditions that can appear mysterious to those unfamiliar with its culture. The order can trace its lineage back to the late 16th century, with origins in lodges of operative masons (craftsmen who built with stone and brick). Over the centuries, these lodges transformed into what we now know as speculative masonry, where membership is open to all, without regard to trade or craft.

Openness and Secrecy in Freemasonry

Freemasons are open about their activities, including public exhibitions, tours, and participation in events like the Lord Mayor's Parade, which is televised and attended by the public. However, some aspects of Freemasonry are kept secret within the organization, as they are believed to be essential for the transmission of the fraternity's teachings and wisdom. These secrets are kept within the Fraternity, much as any professional association may have its own internal procedures and practices.

Freemasonry's Misunderstandings and Misdirections

There have been instances where people have conflated Freemasonry with otheroteric organizations, particularly Thelema, which has borrowed meeting rooms from Masonic lodges. Aleister Crowley, a significant figure in Thelema, had his membership revoked from the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn due to fear of his potential darkness or evil. While he formed his own group, Thelema, to pursue his own beliefs, it is important to note that Freemasonry and Thelema remain separate entities with distinct goals and practices.

The Freemasons and Their Practices

The organization is dedicated to principles of brotherhood and charity, with an emphasis on personal development and moral governance. Freemasons meet monthly in their lodges, which can be found in cities and towns across the world, including the United States, Australia, New Zealand, the British Isles, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Canada, Africa, South America, and Europe. These lodges often have notice boards outside, displaying their contact information and meeting times.

Public Engagement and Community Involvement

Masonic lodges often invite non-members, wives, and friends to their banquets and other meetings. The organization also supports various charities and philanthropic endeavors. This level of public engagement is indicative of Freemasonry's open and benevolent nature, which distinguishes it from other organizations that may be more secretive or insular.

Conclusion

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization dedicated to the principles of charity, brotherhood, and self-improvement. It is not the shadowy, malevolent entity that some may believe. While there are certain aspects of the organization that are kept secret, this is a common practice within many professional and social organizations. The Freemasons are open about their activities, engage in public events, and are committed to making a positive impact in their communities.