Frequently Asked Questions about Freemasonry
1. What is Freemasonry?
2. How old is Freemasonry?
3. Why are Freemasons so secretive?
4. Is Freemasonry a patriotic body?
5. Why does Freemasonry not admit women?
6. Why does Freemasonry say it is a “ritual” practice?
7. Why is “Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth” so
important in Freemasonry?
8. Why does Freemasonry have such odd symbolism like the skull?
9. Is Masonry Practical?
10. Does Freemasonry promote drinking?
11. Why do so many Masonic Lodges look old?
12. What are the first steps to petitioning?
13. How do I find the most suitable lodge?
14. Is every Lodge different?
15. What are Masonic Lodge Hours?
16. What are their requirements of becoming a Mason?
17. How long does it take to become a Freemason?
18. How much does it cost?
19. Does Freemasonry offer family activities?
20. Are lodges diverse?
21. What is the lodge experience like?
22. Are meetings mandatory?
23. What is expected/hoped for new members?
24. What does “making good men better” mean?
25. How does it make you better?
26. Are their any subjects not discussed in a lodge?
27. Is there a racial divide in Freemasonry?
28. Are their other functions or clubs?
29. My Father, Grandfather, etc, was a Freemason, how do I find out
information about him?
30. What is Esoteric Masonry?
31. Why is their a decrease in membership?
32. Can you leave the Masons once you become one?
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a post collegiate male fraternity dedicated to the
spiritual development of the initiate into a broader sense of the self,
and the initiates as he relates to the divine and their relative place
in the world. It conveys this message through a series of progressive
degrees initiating the candidate into a deeper level of membership. Ultimately,
the raised Master Mason is given the metaphorical tools to further work
on and develop their Masonic intuition.
How old is Freemasonry?
The history
of modern freemasonry is fairly understood,
but once you get beyond the 1700's things get lost to the sands of time.
One of
the beauties of Freemasonry is that it allows the member to stretch
his mind to think about a variety of topics not typically explored in mainstream
history. Some Masonic historians attempt to explain and look at
the connections
or possibilities in history that are often overlooked, especially
to the recent past and into the not so recent historical world. Freemasonry
today has been fairly unchanged in the last 300 years, and is modeled
in a system that was likely little changed for the 150 years prior
to
that. It is believed that the working aspects of Freemasonry, the
form and function of the lodge, comes from guilds of the Renaissance and
middle
ages, and over time attracted a wider audience of non practicing “masons”.
This is the period that the present day fraternity shifted from an “operative” guild
to a “speculative” one. These changes have evolved to shape
the look and feel of modern lodge operation today.
Why are Freemasons so secretive?
Many masons will not answer questions about the fraternity
as they believe it is supposed to be a "secret". In the end that is
a loss for the fraternity as any time someone asks a question about Masonry
it's a great opportunity to talk openly about it. An often retort to
this idea is that it is a Society with Secrets, rather than a secret
society, but this is equally confusing. There are aspects to Freemasonry
that are kept and taught to only those who go through the initiations
and ceremonies so as to keep them in a proper perspective and context
of meaning. These aspects are not “secrets” but instead knowledge
that is best communicated in a specific and concise manner.
Is Freemasonry a patriotic body?
Yes and no. The aims of Freemasonry are not specifically to embolden
patriotism. It does however; promote a strong affinity towards a passionate
interest in the nation in which the Freemason resides. It encourages
more than a passive interest in the development of civil society and
our roles as citizens in it. The patriotism that is displayed is the
result of that interest in the well being of society itself. The fraternity
does strongly encourage the adherence and following of the principals
and laws of the country in which the man lives.
Why does Freemasonry not admit women?
The fraternity has, with an unwritten rule, remained
a principally all male fraternity. At times, women have been admitted,
for a variety of reasons.
There are bodies comprised of mixed gender, and singular gender that have
varying degrees of recognition to one another. Through most of the world,
the predominate body of masonry is referred to as “Regular” which
is essentially a collective of Grand Lodges who have reached a mutual agreement
of recognition between one another. Within in this agreement, there is a
stipulation that “Regular Freemasonry” is a masculine only body.
It is suggested that this is the case, based on ancient
documents held sacred
by this collective of Grand Lodges. This does not mean that Masonry is something
women cannot understand, nor does it mean that women should be excluded from
it. In a modern perspective, the exclusion of women is a vestige from a bygone
era that has not yet been fully addressed in the future, and like the issues
from past generations will undoubtedly be addressed. Today, the exclusion
is predicated on issues such as a distraction, the need for unfettered brotherhood,
and the belief in purism of ritual.
Why does Freemasonry say it is a “ritual” practice?
The use of the word ritual is in describing the rhythmic practice
of the same ceremony at each occasion. Often there is a connotation of
something sinister or counter to popular practice, but to the contrary,
it is meant to imply that the degrees are an established or prescribed
procedure to convey the knowledge of the Fraternity in a in a repetition.
What this means is that the same ceremony is practiced with each aspirant
into the fraternal fold so that each man undergoes the same experience
creating a unifying shared experience.
Why is “Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth” so important in
Freemasonry?
These three virtues are the foundations upon which Freemasonry is
built. Brotherly love, as directed towards all mankind, especially to other
Masons. Relief, in that every Mason is obligated to relieve the suffering
of any Master Mason they encounter who is in dire need and if in their
power to do so, to the best of their ability, also to act charitably towards
society, giving of ourselves economically, physically, and mentally. And
truth, which is represented by the divine, in its multiplicity and diversity
as understood by all men. These three ideas represent the core of what
Freemasonry represents in its ultimate distillation.
Why does Freemasonry have such odd symbolism like the skull?
The skull and bones, or specifically the skull (or deaths head) is
actually a symbol to remind us of death, as it is the ultimate equalizer
of man as none can avoid its eventuality. This is more a means to remind
us that no matter our station in life, rich or poor, we are all subject
to the same fate, and that our goal should be to make this world better
for everyone. The course of that meaning is that all Masons should always
strive for our noble endeavors, namely brotherly love, relief, and truth.
Is Masonry Practical?
The question of practicality is entirely a self answer question.
Only if something is applied can it be practical so it definitely becomes
something the initiated has to answer. It is a self achieving process
whereby the individual definitely gets what they put into it.
Does Freemasonry promote drinking?
Temperance is virtue promoted within Freemasonry. When, why, or who
made that its social mandate is lost to the sand of time. Masonry does
not frown on the consumption of alcohol, but many lodges are essentially
dry. It is an odd paradox that a Fraternity founded in taverns is dry
today but for now it is predominantly a temperate society. But, like
all men, Masons still meet for drinks and imbibe together and at certain
special occasions serve beverages in lodge. It may be more of a past
social stigma playing out rather than a symbolic one. Also, lodges in
Europe and elsewhere do not seem so stringently afflicted.
Why do so many Masonic Lodge buildings look old?
The issue of the older Masonic buildings is a paradox from the 1950's
when Freemasonry was in a boom era of incredible growth. At its height,
Freemasonry had upwards of 4 million members and consequently lots of
member money. With its growth of membership so to did its infrastructure
expand. One of the consequences of having these expensive buildings that
were built in the 1950's and 60's is that they eventually ultimately
fell under needed to be updated to modern building codes which became
very expensive. The consequence of this is that the buildings became
less and less available for public and commercial use as they fell out
of code. This with a declination in membership led to fewer and fewer
funds to refurbish them. Today, there is an abundance of inventory of
lodges, with a decreasing volume of membership.
What are the first steps to petitioning?
The process begins first by getting to know the lodge you wish to
join. This is really the first step in becoming a member, and starts
with introducing yourself to a lodge at a dinner and getting to know
the membership before the lodge opens.
How do I find the most suitable lodge?
In most major cities heir may be several lodges near
you. The local White Pages or Yellow Pages will have a listing for those
in your community.
With several lodges near you (relatively speaking) the best thing
to do is contact all of the ones close to you for your comfort, and set
up a
time to go down and meet with them. Lodges "typically" meet on
the first Thursday of the month and serve a dinner prior to the regular
meeting. This would probably be the best time to go in and meet the
membership, even if informally. The way to go about this would be to contact
the lodges
(via email or phone) and let them know you are interested and would
like to come in and meet them. Additionally, check the state Grand
Lodge Website
for a complete listing of lodges in your state.
Is every Lodge different?
Lodges do have personalities and should be evaluated as such. The
dynamic, however, can change so what may seem one way may be something
else another time, but you can often get a general feel for the
lodge on a visit. The best things to look for are a vibrant membership
with diverse
age groups, and members.
What are Masonic Lodge Hours?
Most "should" have their hours posted for
visitors on the outside of the building for when someone will be there.
Also, check their
website.
What are their requirements of becoming a Mason?
There are some self study requirements to learn certain aspects
of the fraternity, and then a degree of expectation that you will further
your knowledge about the Freemasonry which will eventually become
second
nature. To join, it is expected that the individual be of good
reputation, have a good moral disposition, and a personal desire to become
a Freemason.
How long does it take to become a Freemason?
It can take 6 months to 18, depending on your interest, ability,
and time. It could theoretically be faster or longer, depending on how
one applies themselves.
How much does it cost?
Costs are separated into two categories, joining fees and annual
dues. The cost of Dues can vary, but are typically no more than one hundred
dollars for an annual membership. Start up (initiation fees) can be several
hundred, and vary lodge to lodge, but after that, it is fairly inexpensive.
When compared to other annual costs, the fee is very low, when compared
to the annual costs of a family YMCA membership of $840 annually ($70
per month), or an annual Club Store membership of $600 ($50 per month).
As with any organized body, the dues go to the operation and management
of the lodge to which they are paid, as it forms the basis of a fraternal
home to the membership.
Does Freemasonry offer family activities?
Yes, frequently, there are dinners or other functions that invite
family and friends to attend and share in the festivities of the lodge
and fraternity. Specific lodge meetings are open only to Master Masons,
as are only key events in the year. Most lodges encourage and welcome
spouses to the pre-monthly meeting dinner offering some entertainment
for the group, as this enhances the overall experience.
Are lodges diverse?
The diversity of each lodge varies. This variance exists from state
to state, city to city, even lodge to lodge. Undoubtedly, the fraternity
was dominated by the social morays of the eras it has evolved through,
which has misconstrued it as a prejudicial as a organization. Many inroads
have been made to eradicate that sentiment and the fraternity is a reflection
of society. In some places lodges are made up of a singular group, some
are a blend of. Each lodge is unique to its community composition. The
unique individuality of Freemasonry in each state varies as does each
lodge. Some places are very progressive, some are not so. The Fraternity
of Freemasonry itself does not foster or promote any race, creed, political,
religious, or color divide. No where in its tenants or lessons does it
espouse any sort of segregation or inequality between men. In fact, it
professes the exact opposite, seeing everyman as equal.
What is the lodge experience like?
The month to month experience varies from mason to mason. Depending
on how active they choose to be will vary the degree to which they are
engaged. As the old adage goes, you get out of it what you put into it.
So the more active you are, the broader the experience. Activities vary,
as there is a wide range of things to do. It is not like a church service
or board of directors meeting, in that those in attendance actively participate.
A typical month can have as few as 1 meeting a month or more than 5 or
6.
Are meetings mandatory?
No. None of the meetings are "mandatory".
Once a candidate has been raised to the 3rd degree, participation is completely
voluntary and
at the individuals will and pleasure. Further, a Mason is not obligated
to go only to his lodge once all 3 degrees have been obtained and
a certain degree of proficiency has been achieved. Once full membership
is achieved,
the Mason can go to any lodge or Masonic function. There are certain
protocols when visiting distant lodges.
What is expected/hoped for new members?
Ideally, once you go through the degrees it is hoped that the new
member will desire to attend the regular meetings and contribute to the
organization as their time permits.
What does “making good men better” mean?
Making good men better is a distillation of the purpose of the Masonic
experience. The ritual and ceremony serve to convey these tenants and
teach certain moral lessons and elevate the individual response to a
position higher than themselves. The lessons are things you have likely
already heard or have learned in church or moral society. What makes
them unique to Freemasonry is that they are presented in a specific format
and context.
How does it make you better?
The process to make individuals better is achieved by teaching and
applying the Masonic lessons to ones life and existence. These lessons
are not necessarily anything one has not ever learned before, as they
are things you may have forgotten, or don't do for a variety reasons.
The whole of Freemasonry is based on allegory and symbol, and it is in
the study of this, that one starts to discover what its meanings and
correlations are. The parts of Freemasonry lead to a whole and it is
what that sum equates to that makes it truly applicable. In the end,
it could make bad men better, but like participation, philosophically
you get what you put into it. Ultimately, the philosophy is about making
good men better, but it is still up to the man to apply it.
Masonry in many ways is what the individual makes of it. You can have
a large role, or a small one, it is incumbent on you and your interest
and time. If the philosophy resonates well with an individual, then it
will be a great experience in which you are inspired to learn from it.
In its most simplest of personal reaction to it will cause the participant
to reflect on something different than what they have experienced before.
What it makes better is their dedication to family, duty to country, and
an understanding of the divine and how to understand our relation to it.
Are their any subjects not discussed in a lodge?
The two cardinal rules not to talk about in lodge are
religion and politics, as Freemasonry is concerned specifically with neither.
This
is an odd paradox in that fundamentally it promotes the individual
connection to the divine, but it admonishes us to not promote one belief
system
over another. Other topics such as work, family, business or other
interests are openly talked about and should be amongst brothers as it
builds our
fraternal bonds. There "should be" no safer place to discuss
these things, our triumphs and the tragedy as it is always amongst
brothers with whom you build these bonds. You can, if you have specific
leanings,
find others of a like mind and engage in interesting discussions
building friendships that will last lifetimes. Like any organization
of people,
you will find a wide variety of interests and ideas all within
one lodge.
It does seem like there is a paradox there, but in reality, that is the
harmonious balance. The reason for not allowing politics or religion to
be discussed is the ideal, does it happen? Absolutely. Should it? No. The
practice of Freemasonry does promote and teach a sort of ecumenical philosophy
of tolerance, which is the over arching idea. It does not imply one system
of politics or religion is right or wrong.
Is there a racial divide in Freemasonry?
The race question is divisive, depending on where you look. Just
as with people on the street, some wear their bigotry on their sleeve,
and some do not. It is impossible to say that a particular individual
or lodge segregates itself based on race. By its very nature, Freemasonry
is a tolerant society, without any racial or religious divide. A man
of any race should be able to walk into any lodge and petition for membership.
Again, however, each lodge does things uniquely their own way. Segregating
lodges based on race is immoral and illegal and against the principals
of Masonic conduct and ethos. Any division based on race is wrong.
Are there other functions or clubs?
Yes, Scottish or York
Rite, or the Shrine as well as others. These
clubs also have monthly meetings, some with several informal get-togethers.
My Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, was a Freemason, how do I find
out more information about him?
The best place to start would be the Grand
Lodge of
the state in which he was a Mason. Some Grand Lodges keep records of past
members and
may be able to research back to determine what lodge they were a
part of and any notable achievements or awards they may have had with the
lodge,
or ancillary bodies, they belonged to. Other than the Grand Lodge,
the next step would be the local lodge to which they may of belonged. They “may” have
some of their individual information that they can research. Additionally,
if they were a Scottish, York Rite, or Shrine Mason the National
offices of these bodies of these groups may be able to supply some information
or do some research into their history. Unfortunately, no global
list of
all Masons exists on this site, or on any other.
What is Esoteric Masonry?
Esoteric
Masonry is the personal exploration to some of the less
mainstream areas of the fraternal society. Some of these aspects include
personal development, spiritualism, mysticism, and so on. It can include
aspects of its history not commonly looked at by mainstream historians
or participants. Also, it investigates lines of religious thought that
exists on the fringes of mainstream doctrine. Investigation does not
mean they work to prove (or disprove) one aspect or another, to the contrary,
the esoteric side of masonry seeks find additional sources of wisdom
and understanding.
Interest in Esoteric masonry is starting to make a come back. Not that
its pursuits ever disappeared, certainly aspects have shifted in focus.
It looks at aspects of personal resonance with the symbols of Freemasonry
and helps develop our own faith. It can be very rewarding and fulfilling.
But this is not strictly what masonry is, but one aspect of it.
Why is their a decrease in membership?
In the period of the 1960’s to 2000’s membership
numbers have dropped as more and more activities compete for free time.
Additionally,
a generational gap ensued with an increase of disenfranchisement
to establishment activities seen as secretive and exclusive. That, coupled
with an organization
swollen to over 4 million members became introverted and less involved
with the daily goings on of society, largely because of the public
perception indicated above. This grew into a spiral of further decline
as other Masonic
bodies took on the public persona of the Fraternity.
Can you leave the Masons once you become one?
Yes, however the knowledge gained will forever live
on for the rest of the individual’s life. Nothing beyond the fraternal
bond of Brotherhood makes any requirement to remaining a Freemason.
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