What is freemasonry?

What is Freemasonry?

Freemasonry, also known as Masonry, is a fraternal organization that originated in the early eighteenth century, with its roots tracing back to the formation of the first Grand Lodge in London in 1717. It is often described as a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. The organization is not a religion, but it does require its members to believe in a Supreme Being and emphasizes moral and ethical conduct.

According to various Masonic scholars, Freemasonry can be defined in several ways:

• “All [Masons] unite in declaring it to be a system of morality, by the practice of which its members may advance their spiritual interest, and mount by the theological ladder from the Lodge on earth to the Lodge in heaven.” - Albert G. Mackey
• “Masonry is the realization of God by the practice of Brotherhood.”
• “It is a science which is engaged in the search after Divine Truth, and which employs symbolism as its method of instruction.”
• “Freemasonry, in its broadest and most comprehensive sense, is a system of morality and social ethics, a primitive religion and a philosophy of life.”

Freemasonry promotes values such as brotherly love, relief, and truth, and aims to foster a sense of community and charity among its members. It is characterized by its use of rituals and symbols, which serve as teaching tools for moral and ethical lessons. While it has been described as a secret society, it is more accurately a society with secrets, as its membership and principles are generally known, but certain aspects of its rituals and teachings are kept confidential.

Overall, Freemasonry seeks to improve the character of its members and promote goodwill and charity in society.