What is the connection between Freemasonry and the occult?
Freemasonry has historical ties to various occult traditions, particularly through its connections with Hermeticism, Kabbalah, and Rosicrucianism. As noted by Jaime Paul Lamb in his paper FREEMASONRY, HERMETIC QABALAH & SOLOMONIC MAGICK, the Masonic system has been influenced by the mystical and esoteric traditions, particularly the hermetic qabalah, which syncretizes elements from various ancient cultures, including Egyptian and Greco-Roman.
Furthermore, the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry incorporates numerous qabalistic references, as highlighted by Albert Pike in his work Morals and Dogma. The 32 Degrees of the Scottish Rite are conjectured to relate esoterically to the 32 paths on the qabalistic Tree of Life, indicating a significant connection between Masonic rituals and occult practices.
Additionally, the influence of Rosicrucianism on Freemasonry is evident, as both traditions share a common interest in alchemy, astrology, and the mystical aspects of existence. The Rosicrucian furore of the early 17th century, which synthesized esoteric Christianity and Hermeticism, has been suggested as a foundational influence on modern speculative Freemasonry.
In summary, while Freemasonry is not solely an occult organization, it has absorbed and integrated various occult elements throughout its history, particularly through its rituals and the influence of other esoteric traditions.