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Within the Craft, Freemasonry is traditionally defined as a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols 4.

Scholars and philosophers within the Order expand upon this definition according to their respective perspectives:

**A System of Spiritual Regeneration** Wilmshurst describes Craft Masonry as a philosophy of the spiritual life and a diagram of the process of regeneration 1. He holds that the Order uses dramatic representations and allegorical ceremonial to provide instructions for accelerating the soul's return to its divine origin 1. In his view, the Craft is not itself a religion, but rather a dramatized synthesis of the fundamental religious processes common to all faith systems 1. He argues that its core purpose is not the repetition of ritual or the safeguarding of secrets, but the spiritual elevation and regeneration of its members 1.

**A Universal Moral and Philosophical Concordat** Hutchinson (cited by Newton) interprets the Craft's philosophy as an pursuit of universal religion—the "Religion of Nature"—which teaches humanity to set aside bigoted notions and acknowledge men of all religious faiths as brethren 3. Newton similarly views the Masonic philosophy as a broad, humane influence that sets truth in order and provides a wider outlook on life 3.

**An Immutable Framework with Diverse Beliefs** Waite notes that in English-speaking jurisdictions, the Craft is anchored by immutable dogmas—namely, a belief in God (as a personal Divine Nature) and the immortality of the soul—making it distinct from Monism, Materialism, or Pantheism 2. Beyond these core requirements, however, the Order functions as a concordat that accords perfect liberty of opinion, encompassing members of widely varying philosophical and spiritual views 12.

**Historical Origins** Craft Masonry traces the roots of its symbolism and teachings to antiquity 4. Claudy points to the Roman *Collegia* (specifically the Colleges of Architects) as early organizational ancestors; these bodies operated under their own constitutions, utilized three degrees or orders, were led by a Master and two Wardens, and employed symbols such as the square, compasses, plumb, and level 4.