Is Freemasonry a religion?
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor does it assume to take the place of religion. It teaches principles of morality that are universal and can be adhered to by individuals of any faith. As stated in the writings of Albert Pike, "Masonry is not a religion. He who makes of it a religious belief falsifies and denaturalizes it". Freemasonry requires its members to believe in a Supreme Being, but it does not dictate the nature of that belief, allowing for a diversity of religious views among its members.
Furthermore, Freemasonry is described as a system of morality, a philosophy of life, and a universal brotherhood that promotes ethical behavior and charitable actions without being confined to any specific religious doctrine. The organization encourages its members to practice their own religions and to engage in charitable works, emphasizing brotherly love, relief, and truth as its fundamental principles.