Has ancient Indian culture influenced Freemasonry in any way?
Yes, ancient Indian culture has indeed influenced Freemasonry, particularly through the historical context of the British Empire's interactions with India. The early presence of Freemasonry in India can be traced back to 1775 when the first Indian Mason was initiated. By the late 18th century, established lodges were present in cities like Madras and Bombay, reflecting the spread of Freemasonry through British colonial activities.
Moreover, the rituals and symbols of Freemasonry have connections to ancient wisdom and practices, including those from Indian traditions. For instance, Albert Pike in his work *Morals and Dogma* discusses the significance of the sacred word 'A.U.M.' which is deeply rooted in ancient Indian spirituality, suggesting that it was a sacred word before the Median and Indian branches of the race separated .
Additionally, the concept of universal brotherhood, which is central to Freemasonry, resonates with the ideals found in ancient Indian texts, such as the Mahabharata, which emphasizes fraternity among people . This connection illustrates how the philosophical and spiritual elements of ancient Indian culture have contributed to the broader tapestry of Masonic thought.