Enter the secret world of the Freemasons

CBS Sunday Morning6 minutes read

Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest fraternity, not a secret society, with historical figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin as members. To join, individuals must petition a local lodge, show good character, and believe in a supreme being, with membership being predominantly male.

Insights

  • Freemasonry, despite being often linked to conspiracy theories and criminal activities, is actually the world's oldest and largest fraternity, with historical figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin being members.
  • The roots of Freemasonry trace back to medieval Europe as a guild for stonemasons, transforming over time into a social institution focused on brotherhood, tradition, and elaborate rituals, with offshoots like the Shriners engaging in extensive philanthropic endeavors, such as operating children's hospitals.

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Recent questions

  • What is Freemasonry?

    Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest fraternity, not a secret society, with historical figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin as members.

  • How can one join Freemasonry?

    To join Freemasonry, one must petition a local lodge, demonstrate good character, and belief in a supreme being, with membership being predominantly male.

  • What are some offshoots of Freemasonry?

    Freemasonry has various offshoots, like the Shriners, known for their philanthropic work, including 22 children's hospitals.

  • What is the origin of Freemasonry?

    Freemasonry began as a guild for stonemasons in medieval Europe, evolving into a social organization with a rich history, rituals, and ceremonies, attracting members for its sense of brotherhood and tradition.

  • Is Freemasonry associated with conspiracy theories?

    Freemasonry is often associated with conspiracy theories and organized crime, but it is actually a fraternity with a focus on brotherhood and tradition, with no basis in such theories.

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Summary

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"Freemasonry: Ancient Fraternity with Rich History"

  • Freemasonry is a well-known secret society rich in symbols and rituals, often associated with conspiracy theories and organized crime.
  • Freemasonry is not a secret society, but rather the world's oldest and largest fraternity, with notable historical figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin as members.
  • To join Freemasonry, one must petition a local lodge, demonstrate good character, and belief in a supreme being, with membership being predominantly male.
  • Freemasonry has various offshoots, like the Shriners, known for their philanthropic work, including 22 children's hospitals.
  • Freemasonry began as a guild for stonemasons in medieval Europe, evolving into a social organization with a rich history, rituals, and ceremonies, attracting members for its sense of brotherhood and tradition.
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