It is difficult to summarize exactly what Freemasonry is, or isn't. Its history and traditions span centuries. Its symbols go back to ancient civilization, thousands of years before the birth of Jesus. And of the millions of brothers who have worn the apron of our craft, they each have a different view of what exactly Freemasonry means to him. But for the sake of the curious visitor, we will humbly attempt to shed some light on the matter.
Freemasonry is a society, or fraternity of men, who wish to improve themselves through Masonic study. The exact principles of which are not laid out in any one document, but instead, span a variety of writings and ceremonies. |
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Taken as a whole, these principles include morality, an appreciation for God's work, a dispassionate and thoughtful consideration of the world in which we live, harmony, a recognition of our own mortality, honesty, integrity, and charity. It is all of these things wrapped together in an oral tradition, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols.
If you are a U.S. citizen, then you have lived under the blanket of these ideals. The founding fathers of our country sought to create a land where freedom, community, religeous tolerance, and the reaonable mind were qualities to strive for.
Masons share an eclectic range of individual religious beliefs, political affiliations, and careers. Freemasonry is not a religion, nor a cult, nor a secret society. If it were a secret society, you would not now be reading this page. Yes, Masons have secrets, but that which is secret is not hidden in order to exclude the individual, but rather, it is secret to cause one to seek it.
Countless others have tried to explain to the outsider exactly what Freemasonry is. And, unfortunately, there are those who persist in making assumptions, and repeating erroneous facts. Here are a few links that help explain the brotherhood, and its history.
Inside the Mason, article from US News and World Report, Jay Tolson - 2005
The United Grand Lodge of England, homepage for the mother lodge of all A.F.& A.M Lodges
Freemasonry for Dummies: Blog, maintained by Chris Hodapp
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