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Spooky Rituals of The Freemasons | The Freemasons Explained

Wondrium・21 minutes read

Freemasonry involves rituals and symbols for moral teachings, with origins in ancient traditions and links to mystical and occult practices. The organization traces back to 1717 in London, evolving over time with different interpretations and branches, attracting members from various backgrounds.

Insights

  • Freemasonry is a system of morality using symbols and rituals to represent enlightenment and self-improvement, emphasizing secrecy, obedience, and reverence for God and the law.
  • The history of Freemasonry is intertwined with speculation on its origins, with connections to mystical traditions, Templars, and esoteric knowledge, evolving from medieval guilds into a complex organization with diverse branches and practices.

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Recent questions

  • What is the significance of the blindfold in Freemasonry rituals?

    The blindfold in Freemasonry rituals symbolizes the candidate's entrance into a new world of enlightenment and self-improvement. It represents the idea of being in darkness before seeking light, signifying the journey from ignorance to knowledge within the brotherhood.

  • What are the three sacred objects shown to the candidate in Freemasonry?

    The three sacred objects shown to the candidate in Freemasonry are the holy book, the square, and the compass. These objects hold symbolic meanings within the brotherhood, representing moral truths, fairness, and guidance in conduct and behavior.

  • How does Freemasonry emphasize the importance of secrecy?

    Freemasonry emphasizes the importance of secrecy through the candidate swearing an oath on a Bible, pressing a compass against his chest. This oath signifies the commitment to keeping the rituals and teachings of the brotherhood confidential, with dire consequences promised if any secrets are revealed.

  • What is the main focus of Freemasonry rituals and symbols?

    The main focus of Freemasonry rituals and symbols is to convey moral lessons and principles through allegory and symbolism. The rituals are designed to guide members towards self-improvement, enlightenment, and a deeper understanding of moral values and virtues.

  • How did Freemasonry evolve from older lodges in London in 1717?

    Freemasonry evolved from older lodges in London in 1717, marking the beginning of modern Freemasonry. It grew from a system of moral teachings veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols, emphasizing self-improvement, brotherhood, and adherence to moral principles.

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Summary

00:00

"Freemasonry: Secrets, Symbols, and History"

  • The candidate for entered apprentice in Freemasonry is blindfolded, with a noose around his neck, and his chest and left pant leg exposed.
  • The candidate is escorted into the lodge by the inner guard, who holds a dagger against his chest for a ritual question and answer with the Worshipful Master.
  • The candidate swears an oath of secrecy on a Bible, pressing a compass against his chest, promising dire consequences if he reveals any secrets.
  • The assembled brothers give the sign of the entered apprentice, and the candidate is shown three sacred objects: the holy book, the square, and the compass.
  • The candidate learns the secret hand sign, the word "Boaz," and receives a Masonic badge, a gavel, and a ruler.
  • The candidate is instructed on the importance of God, being law-abiding, avoiding political or religious discussions, and obeying the master and other officers.
  • Freemasonry is described as a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols, with rituals symbolizing enlightenment and self-improvement.
  • Freemasonry's origins are lost in time, leading to speculation and various interpretations, with different lodges having different rules and practices.
  • Freemasonry has been associated with mystical and occult traditions, with higher degrees offering esoteric knowledge and rituals beyond the basic craft degrees.
  • The history of modern Freemasonry began in 1717 in London, evolving from older lodges and experiencing schisms over the importance of rituals and mystical traditions.

18:47

Templar-Freemason Links: History and Speculation

  • The 15th-century Kirkwall Scroll from Scotland is an illustrated tapestry possibly showing Templar and Gnostic symbols, sparking debate on its authenticity.
  • American Masons in 1919 named their youth auxiliary the DeMolays after Jacques DeMolay, the last Templar Grand Master, executed in 1314.
  • Historian John Robinson suggests a link between Templars and Freemasons in his book "Born in Blood," focusing on the 1381 Peasants' Revolt in England.
  • Medieval mason guilds were not trade unions but employer associations, with master masons treating others as laborers, leading to speculation of Templars forming their own pseudo-Masonic guilds.
  • Freemasonry in Britain grew significantly, with Rudyard Kipling popularizing the brotherhood, but membership was concentrated among the wealthy elite.
  • Cecil Rhodes, an arch-imperialist, joined Freemasonry for power but later found it lacking, forming his own secret society, the Society of the Elect.
  • Freemasonry had various branches like the occultist Aleister Crowley's, who had connections to esoteric organizations with Masonic roots, showing the diversity within Freemasonry.
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