Freemasonry, also known as Masonry, is a fraternal organization that traces its origins back to the local stonemasons guilds that were formed in medieval Europe. The basic unit of Freemasonry is the Masonic lodge, and Freemasons meet in lodges to conduct rituals and business. Freemasonry has a moral code and a complex set of initiation rituals, signs, and symbols that its members must learn. It utilizes the allegory of stonemasons building Solomon’s temple to convey moral lessons.
Freemasonry teaches moral lessons through rituals and allegory and does require its members to believe in a Supreme Being. However, beyond requiring a belief in a deity, Freemasonry does not require its members to adhere to the tenets of any particular religion. Members of various faiths are accepted into Freemasonry, which supports freedom of individual religious worship.
Here are some key beliefs and principles of Freemasonry:
- Belief in a Supreme Being – Members must believe in a deity, referred to as the “Great Architect of the Universe.” However, discussion of religion is prohibited in Masonic lodges.
- Brotherly love – Freemasons are required to be good citizens and work for the betterment of society. They are expected to treat others with kindness.
- Charity – Freemasonry teaches charity and caring for others. Freemasons support various charitable causes.
- Morality – Freemasons must uphold high moral standards and seek to be virtuous individuals.
- Self-improvement – Masons are expected to strive to improve themselves through study, self-reflection and adherence to Masonic principles.
- Truth – Masonic rituals convey that all Freemasons should search for light, which represents truth and knowledge.
- Toleration – Freemasonry promotes religious toleration and the harmony of people of different faiths.
- Equality – Within the lodge, all Freemasons meet on the level, without regard for outside social status.
Freemasonry uses symbols and allegorical stories about stonemasons building King Solomon’s temple to convey moral lessons. For instance, the square and compass symbolizes virtue, while the letter “G” represents God and Geometry. The rituals and symbolism can appear cryptic to outsiders, but Freemasons view them as methods to impart wisdom.
What does the Bible say about Freemasonry?
The Bible does not directly mention Freemasonry since the organization did not exist at the time the various books of the Bible were written. However, there are some biblical principles that can provide guidance for assessing the teachings of Freemasonry:
- Idolatry – The rituals, symbols and oaths taken during Freemason initiation ceremonies have led some Christians to accuse Masons of idolatry or worshipping false gods. Exodus 20:3-5 condemns idolatry.
- Secrecy – Freemasons take vows to keep the secrets of their rituals private. Some Christians argue this opposes biblical principles of transparency and speaking the truth (Matthew 5:37).
- Salvation – Freemasonry requires morality and good works but does not offer salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone, which contradicts New Testament teachings (Ephesians 2:8-9).
- Exclusivity – Allowing only men as Freemasons goes against biblical principles of inclusion (Galatians 3:28).
- Unequal yoking – The prohibition against being unequally yoked with unbelievers is seen by some as conflicting with Masonry’s acceptance of members from all faiths (2 Corinthians 6:14).
However, there are also arguments that Freemasonry aligns with biblical values:
- Belief in God – Requiring a belief in a deity affirms teachings about God’s existence (Hebrews 11:6).
- Brotherly love – The Masonic emphasis on charity and caring for others reflects Christ’s teachings about loving your neighbor (Matthew 22:39).
- Morality – Freemasonry promotes virtue, a central theme in the Bible (Philippians 4:8).
- Tolerance – Masonry’s religious toleration aligns with values of equality (Acts 10:28).
In evaluating Freemasonry, Christians must carefully consider whether the organization’s teachings and practices align with biblical principles and their personal conscience. There is room for reasonable debate among Christians regarding Freemasonry.
What do different denominations believe about Freemasonry?
Views on Freemasonry differ significantly among Christian denominations:
- Roman Catholicism – Catholics have traditionally opposed Freemasonry more than other Christian traditions. Papal pronouncements in the 18th and 19th centuries condemned Freemasonry and prohibited Catholics from joining Masonic lodges.
- Eastern Orthodoxy – The Orthodox Church also takes a critical view of Freemasonry. Masonic principles like religious toleration conflict with the Orthodox tradition.
- Protestantism – Protestant denominations take varied perspectives on Freemasonry. Some, like the Southern Baptist Convention, condemn Masonry as anti-biblical, while others, such as the Lutherans, take a more accepting stance.
- Anglicanism – The Church of England has not taken an official position for or against Freemasonry. Some Anglicans have been Masons while critics also exist within Anglicanism.
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – While critical of secret oaths and rituals in the 19th century, the LDS church eventually relaxed opposition to Masonry. Some leading early Mormons were Masons.
Denominations opposing Freemasonry view elements of its rituals and secrecy as conflicting with Christian teaching. But critiques have softened over time, and individual Christians from various backgrounds make their own decision about the compatibility of Masonic membership with their faith.
What rituals and symbols are associated with Freemasonry?
Freemasonry uses initiation rituals for new members and secret symbols borrowed mainly from medieval stonemasons’ customs. Some key Masonic rituals and symbols include:
- Rituals – Masonic initiation includes oaths, scripted question and answer catechisms, drama, and traditional practices to bring in new members.
- Lambskin apron – Worn during rituals, it represents the stonemason’s apron and signifies protection of moral virtues.
- Squares and compasses – Masonic icon related to stonemason tools, it stands for ethical uprightness and personal restraint.
- Letter “G” – Represents God and geometry, reminding Masons that God rules over the universe.
- Allegories and symbols – Stories of King Solomon’s temple and legends of Hiram Abiff convey moral lessons.
- Distinctive handshakes – Used as recognition among Masons worldwide during greetings and rituals.
- Passwords – Masonic lodges use passwords and phrases that identify members to other Masons.
These traditional symbols and rituals are learned as Masons progress through the three degrees of blue lodge Masonry. Learning their meanings is intended to impart moral truths.
What are the organizational structures and leadership of Freemasonry?
Freemasonry has a decentralized, hierarchical structure led by the following organizational bodies and leaders:
- Local blue lodges – The basic unit where Masons receive their first three degrees. Led by a Worshipful Master.
- State-level grand lodges – Governing body that oversees lodges statewide. Led by a Grand Master.
- National grand lodges – Coordinates activities countrywide. In the U.S. this is the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia.
- York Rite and Scottish Rite – Optional higher degree Masonry governed by their own structures.
- Shriners – The Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, an appendant fraternal order.
- Eastern Star – Masonically affiliated order open to both men and women.
There is no single central Masonic authority dictating doctrine and practices worldwide. However, regular Masonic lodges must adhere to certain landmarks and principles to receive recognition.
What are the history and origins of Freemasonry?
The origins and early history of Freemasonry are somewhat speculative, with disputed theories about the exact lineage of the organization:
- Stonemason guilds – Emerged in medieval Europe to train stonemasons and promote fellowship. Developed secret words and symbols.
- 17th century lodges – Some lodges of speculative Freemasonry emerged in Scotland around 1600-1700.
- Premier Grand Lodge – Formed in London, England in 1717 as a regulatory body for Masonic lodges.
- Grand Lodge System – Spread speculative Masonry and established governing grand lodges around the world in the 1700s.
- Colonial American lodges – Early American Freemasonry grew out of Britain. George Washington was a Mason.
- Prince Hall Masonry – Separate Masonic lodges formed by Prince Hall for African Americans denied entry into white lodges.
Over 300 years, Freemasonry has grown globally from its uncertain origins. Some 5 million members exist worldwide today, though membership has declined in recent decades.
What are common misconceptions about Freemasonry?
There are various misconceptions non-Masons have about Freemasonry:
- Freemasons are not a religion – Masonry encourages faith in God but does not offer sacraments or religious salvation.
- It is not a secret society – Masonic lodges are openly identified in public directories, and members often wear pins showing membership.
- Freemasons are not controlled by Jews/Jesuits/etc. – Anti-Masonic conspiracy theories are not based in sound facts.
- handshake does not imply any obligation – Some people mistakenly think Masons pledge allegiance through handshakes.
- Symbols do not have occult meanings – Common symbols like the eye of providence predate Freemasonry.
- Men and women are not exactly equal in Freemasonry – However, both genders play important complementary roles.
Part of the misunderstanding stems from the esoteric nature of Masonic rituals. In reality, Freemasonry’s main purpose is moral self-improvement and brotherhood among members.
How can Christians interact with friends or family who are Freemasons?
Christians who have loved ones involved in Freemasonry should interact with them in a spirit of love, humility and wisdom:
- Prayer – Ask God for discernment and sensitivity regarding this relationship.
- Listen first – Seek to truly understand their perspective on Masonry.
- Study Scripture – Carefully apply biblical principles instead of relying only on anti-Masonic claims.
- Ask questions – Inquire openly about elements that seem to conflict with Christian beliefs.
- Focus on Christ – Keep the Gospel message of salvation by grace central.
- Allow freedom – Accept their personal right to choose involvement in Freemasonry.
- Preserve unity – Value the relationship over debates about Masonry that may divide.
Balancing Freemason membership with Christian faith requires wisdom and discretion. The priority should be showing Christ’s redeeming love.
Conclusion
Freemasonry has a long, multilayered history dating back centuries. Its rituals and moral teachings have complex symbolic meanings. Christians evaluate Freemasonry against biblical standards with opinions ranging from condemnation to acceptance. Wise Christians can thoughtfully navigate interactions with friends or family members who are Masons.