What is Freemasonry's opinion of primitive Gnosticism?

Oriental philosophy gave birth to the Gnostic sects and deeply permeates the Ineffable, Philosophic, and Hermetic degrees 1. In these higher degrees, including those in the Scottish Rite, references to Gnostic doctrines and the theory of emanations appear alongside Cabalistic and Jewish philosophy 1. Albert Mackey considers a knowledge of Oriental philosophy essential to properly understanding the symbolism and lessons of these advanced degrees 1.

Beyond degree rituals, Masonic scholarship has actively examined Gnosticism's historical relationship to the fraternity. Research papers have investigated ancient Gnostic sects to evaluate potential historical or symbolic influences on Masonic development, as recorded in a paper read before Quatuor Coronati Lodge. Scholars have also confronted anti-Masonic polemics that attempt to connect Freemasonry with medieval Templar orders and Gnostic heresies, as discussed in a paper read before Quatuor Coronati Lodge.

In the Craft degrees, Freemasonry maintains no theological stance on Gnosticism and does not teach Gnostic doctrine. Craft Masonry requires a candidate to profess a belief in a Supreme Being but leaves specific religious and philosophical interpretations entirely to the individual, keeping its symbolic instruction distinct from any specific Gnostic theology.