Tell me about Freemasonry in Persian.
Freemasonry in Persia, now known as Iran, has a rich and intricate history that began in the mid-19th century. The first lodges were established as part of British colonial influence, with significant contributions from local reformist groups. Notably, the Parsis and Shi’a-Qajar reformists utilized Freemasonry to revive ancient Persian art and architecture, linking modernity with a revered past and promoting ideals such as constitutional governance and universal brotherhood.
One of the most notable early Masonic societies was the Faramosh Khaneh, founded by Mirza Malkam Khan, which aimed to foster brotherhood and progress in Iran. Although it was not directly affiliated with European Freemasonry, it was influenced by liberal and humanist ideas from 19th-century Europe.
In 1908, the first Masonic lodge in Persia, Lodge Bīdārī (Le Reveil de l’Iran), became affiliated with a European grand lodge, marking a significant step in the establishment of Freemasonry in the region. The Pahlavi Lodge was formed in the 1950s, but faced hostility and was closed in 1955. However, Freemasonry saw a revival from 1955 to 1978, with numerous lodges being established under various European grand lodges.
After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Freemasonry was suppressed, leading to the closure of many lodges and persecution of Freemasons. Today, a small number of Persian Freemasons continue their traditions in the United States, maintaining the legacy of Freemasonry despite the challenges faced in Iran.
Key figures such as Mirza Malkam Khan played a crucial role in introducing Masonic ideas to Persia, while the influence of reformist Parsis contributed to the cultural and artistic revival linked to Freemasonry.