info on the Masons

[oceans_embrace]

Hey all,

A friend and I were recently having a conversation on the "secret society" called the Masons, and whether or not they were related to witchcraft or what. I said they practiced some sort of ceremonial magick but i did not know for sure. Does anyone know anything about this group? The are pretty popular in my area and I would like to know whether they are a threat of some sort or what. I have heard stories from people who have worked or volunteered at the Masonic Home (kind or like a nursing home for Mason's members) they say that the place was haunted, etc. pretty much just a big bad vibe location set off in the middle of nowhere. Anyway, I can't find much info out there, cosidering they are supposedly a "secret" society and nobody talks about it. If anyone knows anything I'd like to hear it so I dont look like a fool speaking heresy about a group I know nothing about.

[TYRRHENUS]

I have a book which was published by the Freemasons. It is called "A Bridge To Light" written by Rex R. Hutchens, 32°. There is a Library of Congress Catalog Card Number 88-63345. The book is all ceremonial magic. That's all I know. Maybe someone else can provide more.

[banondraig]

i don't anything about the masons myself but my cousin used to work at one of the masonic homes and she also said that about the bad vibes and that one of her friends there agreed with her. sorry i can't be more specific -- we had that conversation a while ago.

[Felidae]

My paternal grandfather was a Freemason.

From what I have heard he was talented in metal work and created art and sculpture at home. The Freemasons were (are) a hermetic society, and members would be expected to share the same talents and station.

You must understand that I am not being elitist here, the Masons come from another era. One wherin diversity was not a quality to be celebrated.

I was also told that my grandfather was a swift and harsh disciplinarian. But this may not have any bearing on him being a Mason. It might only reflect on the times, as my father was born in 1923 and grew up the youngest of 7 children (and a one of a set of twins) during the Depression.

I really don't have much concrete info to share. As I have read much about the history of the Golden Dawn I have some conclusions about what the Masonic structure may be, but the Masons have never been fans of publicity, as so many in the Golden Dawn were. In fact, the Freemasons are very much older and may indeed exemplify what a hermetic society really should be. It is my understanding that the Freemasons were contemporaries of the Knights Templar (and we all know what happened to them) however, let me again state that this is just my understanding...

In an effort to learn just what it was that my grandfather did I purchased a book, called The Hiram Key. It is still widely available and may shed some light on your question, as it does explain some things. Their rituals seem to be structured on the model of the Apostles and the Crucifixion/Resurrection theme. But also be aware that this book was written by two practising Freemasons. You're not going to get any inner court information out of it, and the ultimate conclusion seems to be that today's Masons are not really sure what their roots are...

[PoetryInDespair]

My dads a mason and my grandfather and my aunt is a rainbow girl ( i think thats what their called). I'm not really sure what they do but I think it started with just masons then progressed. My dad stays out until 11 o'clock sometimes at their meetings and he never tells us what they talk about. I do know its hard to get in. -shugs- my uncle is buried in their cematary in ohio near the clevelandish area. That is if we're talking about the same Masons! lol

[PoetryInDespair]

Deerr i'm such an idiot I forgot to add. Its for sure NOT witchcraft/wicca/paganism related in anyway. My whole dads side is strict catholics.And as far as I know everyone else is strict christian something. Also my grandfather and dad are very strict but again it might just have to do with their ubringing. But I dont remeber a relative on my dads side thats not a mason....... I'm rambling again...I'll stop now-slowly walks away-

[grnpuffer]

Non Masons seem to enjoy speculating on illuminati and secret socieites and all sorts of scary stuff. However, I think if you look around a bit, you might be pleasantly surprised how influential they've been in your life.

the masons in my community are very active in community service (supporting the childrens hospital and other charities, I got a scholarship from them even though I have no family ties to them)

The masons are not a single entity but have diversified across every flavor imaginable. the golden dawn and all of their descendents have had many members who were also masons, and so the development of those organisations were influenced by masonic philosophies and practicies. The founding fathers of America were all supposed Masons as well, and there are several excellent books documenting how washington DC is geographically organized according to masonic principles (go to the library of congress, and you'll find the placcards embossed on the floor). Look at a dollar bill. You'll find loads of masonic symbols. Let's face it, the design of the constitution and what it means to be an American was definately not established by any belief put forward by virulent anglican puritans.

as far as making a statement "I have nothing to do with ceremonial magic and the like...." I was initiated into a wiccan tradition where the leadership claimed to be hard core anti ceremonial..... several years later, I discoverd that the ritual used during the initiation was a cut down version of a masonic rite (I didn't exactly point that out to them). For that matter, Gerald Gardner was supposedly a type of a mason and actually purchased a golden dawn charter from A.Crowley. Gardner 'borrowed' rather liberally from that material and the rest is history.

If the idea of masons still gives you the heebeejeebies, try reading Katherine Kurtz's Adept series. According to a mutual friend of a friend, she's a scottish freemason and really knows her stuff. The books are quite wonderful and no doubt available at any used book store.

[Flar's Freyja]

I've also heard that they practice ceremonial magic and heard this from someone who I consider to be a reliable source.

A friend of mine has a ring that belonged to her grandmother, who was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. It is exquisitely beautiful - and it is also definitely a pentacle.

[TYRRHENUS]

Here's the degrees courtesy and copyright of the aforementioned book. For some reason, the degrees either start at 4, or 1 through 3 aren't important... I don't know. My favorite is Intimate Secretary.

4th ° - Secret Master
5th ° - Perfect Master
6th ° - Intimate Secretary
7th ° - Provost and Judge
8th ° - Intendant of the Building
9th ° - Elu of the Nine
10th ° - Elu of the Fifteen
11th ° - Elu of the Twelve
12th ° - Master Architect
13th ° - The Royal Arch of Solomon
14th ° - Perfect Elu
15th ° - Knight of the East
16th ° - Prince of Jerusalem
17th ° - Knight of the East and West
18th ° - Knight of the Rose Croix
19th ° - Grand Pontiff
20th ° - Master of the Symbolic Lodge
21st ° - Noachite or Prussian Knight
22nd ° - Knight Royal Axe or Prince of Libanus
23rd ° - Chief of the Tabernacle
24th ° - Prince of the Tabernacle
25th ° - Knight of the Brazen Serpent
26th ° - Prince of Mercy or Scottish Trinitarian
27th ° - Knight Commander of the Temple
28th ° - Knight of the Sun, Prince Adept
29th ° - Scottish Knight of St. Andrew
30th ° - Knight Kadosh
31st ° - Inspector Inquisitor
32nd ° - Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret
33rd ° - Sovereign Grand Commander

[FeatherGoblinglimmer]

I know that the freemasons here have to be recommended by there local catholic bishop of their diocese.

[Kadynas]

Really? That's kinda odd, as my great-grandfather was a Mason and was not Catholic... I remember hearing somewhere that they welcome all who worship God, though I'm not sure if this was restricted to the Christian God or not... I know about the Order of the Eastern Star, as all four of an ex-boyfriends sisters all belonged to it... it's kinda the women's and girl's group for those realted to the Masons.
Freyja: did that pentacle look anything like the "fairy star"? Either 7, 8, or 9 points, I really can't remember which... I stayed with my grandparents in my great-grandfather's old room and found something like that engraved into a thin gold pendant...
The closest I ever got to finding out anything about their ceremonies was at my great-grandfather's funeral... they made everyone leave the viewing room except my grandparents and closed the doors. When they were done there were like miniature pine branches in his coffin and I asked my grandma what they were doing (she was his daughter-in-law) and she said his friends were "sending him off to heaven". :)

[teyl]

Really? That's kinda odd, as my great-grandfather was a Mason and was not Catholic... I remember hearing somewhere that they welcome all who worship God, though I'm not sure if this was restricted to the Christian God or not...
We were discussing this on the weekend, apparently, freemasons have to believe in a god. During initiation, if anyone in the group knows any bad things about you then you wont get in and they have a secret handshake so that you will know another mason in the dark. At least thats what we were told.....
As far as ritual magic goes, I'm not sure but my current ritual garb is a white cape with a hood made of satin it was my grandfathers from 'the Lodge'

[Felidae]

I reread select chapters from the book I mentioned in my previous post.

The original Masons were required to be either stonemasons or from a sister science. The reason being this: the authors believe that the Freemasons are descended from the Knights Templar, and the order is structured around the belief that the original Mason(s) were the builders of King Solomon's Temple.

So yeah, therin the title: Freemason. They hint that this is the basis of their rituals, as the Lodges are modeled after The Temple of Solomon, pillars and all.

[luna rising]

As far as ritual magic goes, I'm not sure but my current ritual garb is a white cape with a hood made of satin it was my grandfathers from 'the Lodge'


That is soooo freakin cool, Teyl.

You know, I have always been curious about the Masons as well, and I never thought to post a question here. If you want a good read about the Masons that is PURE speculation, check out the graphic novel "From Hell." It is currently my favorite Jack the Ripper theory (and the GN is WAY better than the movie).

Has anyone ever heard of The Daughters of Rebecca? I always thought they were the women's equivalent of the Freemasons, but i had never heard of the Eastern Star.

[Flar's Freyja]

I received this link in a newsletter this morning:

FreeMasonry Watch (http://www.freemasonrywatch.org)

I haven't had enough time to go through it - but I caught a little bit that indicated that it might be one of those "watch" groups.

[Felidae]

I glanced through it, and I agree. However, this guy seems to know just enough to get himself into trouble.

What I mean to say is, "My, these grapes are sour..." :)

[Ben Trismegistus]

Hey gang -- I only just saw this thread for the first time.

I am a Freemason, and I can tell you that we don't perform any Ceremonial Magic. There's a fair amount of symbolism that is shared with Ceremonial Magicians - the stuff that references spiritual alchemy and improving one's self. And a great deal of 19th century Ceremonial Magicians, as well as Golden Dawn folks and the founders of Wicca, were all Masons: Aleister Crowley, Gerald Gardner, A.E. Waite, S.L. MacGregor Mathers, William W. Wescott, etc.

That said, there is definitely an esoteric element. In my Lodge alone, there are a bunch of pagans -- 7 Wiccans (including myself, my High Priest and another covenmate), one New Ager, and one crotchety old Ceremonial Magician. We are attempting to restore some of the occult nature to Freemasonry, through reintroduction of Kabbalah and other esoteric symbolism.

As for the requirements, a Freemason must profess a belief in deity (any form) and the immortality of the soul.

Any other questions? :) And yes, we do run the world.

[Bainidhe Dub]

Hey gang -- I only just saw this thread for the first time.

Any other questions? :) And yes, we do run the world.

Yeah I have a question.... are there any good webpages or books on the Freemasons that you would recommend?

[Ben Trismegistus]

Yeah I have a question.... are there any good webpages or books on the Freemasons that you would recommend?
Sure - here you go!

The Origins of Freemasonry: Scotland's Century, 1590-1710 (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0521396549/qid=1067547191/sr=5-2/ref=cm_lm_asin/103-7138389-1839846?v=glance) by David Stevenson -- this is the most scholarly account so far.

Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0871316021/qid=1067547191/sr=5-2/ref=cm_lm_asin/103-7138389-1839846?v=glance) by John J. Robinson -- an enjoyable book which ties Freemasonry to the Knights Templar. There's no real evidence to support his claims, but they're very popular.

The Hiram Key: Pharaohs, Freemasons, and the Discovery of the Secret Scrolls of Jesus (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1862040044/ref=pd_sim_books_3/103-7138389-1839846?v=glance&s=books) by Christopher Knight and Robert Lomas -- this book is a lot of fun to read. It attempts to tie Masonry to everything from the ancient Egyptians to Jesus. WARNING: This book is based on VERY questionable scholarship. It should only be read from the point of view of "Well, it *could* have happened this way." I got very wrapped up in this book and accepted it as truth until it was pointed out to me it's very likely that none of it is true. Still, it's a really enjoyable read.

Websites

http://web.mit.edu/dryfoo/Masonry/ (http://web.mit.edu/dryfoo/Masonry/) - lots of good info

http://www.freemasonry.net/ (http://www.freemasonry.net/) - an English site, but still interesting

http://www.nymasons.org (http://www.nymasons.org) - Grand Lodge of the State of New York - a nice opportunity to tour the gorgeous Grand Lodge building (this is where my meetings are). I was initiated in the room next to the room where Teddy Roosevelt was initiated.

http://www.masonicinfo.com/famous.htm (http://www.masonicinfo.com/famous.htm) - a list of famous Freemasons throughout history. Cool.

http://www.mariners67.org - my lodge. Not much information, but it's a cool site. ;)

[Bainidhe Dub]

Wonderful! I'm always looking for books on anything new :)

*yay book store trip!!!* lol. Thanks Ben :)

[Arylon]

Any other questions? :) And yes, we do run the world.

I have some questions! Do Freemasons have the Holy Grail? Ark of the Covenant? Noah's Ark? Lots of GOLD AND TREASURE? :lol:

[Ben Trismegistus]

I have some questions? Do Freemasons have the Holy Grail? Ark of the Covenant? Noah's Ark? Lots of GOLD AND TREASURE? :lol:
Yes, but don't tell anyone.

[Felidae]

Glad you finally saw this thread! Thanks for the info, Ben!

[pictureinpa]

I found out (for sure) last weekend that my great grandfather, great uncles (2), grandfather and uncle (all on my mother's side) were and in the case of my Uncle is still a free mason, he showed me my gr.grandfather's mason bible. He also gave me the book the Da Vinci Code to read, he said it was "very interesting". I did not press him for questions. As far as I remember my family have all been methodist, and all but I still are. When I asked my Uncle about the family history he was surprised and happy I asked, but not very forthcoming with information. He also mentined a few of the women that were in the eastern star. It is amazing what can be found in your families past and in this case present. I do want to follow up with him to see if I can possibly become a member (eastern star as I am female). He is in S Jersey and I am in PA. I had thought it was only thru family ties that you could join. Is this not true?

[Ben Trismegistus]

I had thought it was only thru family ties that you could join. Is this not true?
No, that's not true. You just need to be recommended by someone. My application to the Masons was sponsored by a covenmate of mine.

It wasn't until after I was initiated that I found out that my great-grandfather was a 32nd-degree Mason. He sent me his 32nd-degree gold ring, which I wear to every meeting.

[gyroWang]

I know that the freemasons here have to be recommended by there local catholic bishop of their diocese.

Thats interesting, cos over here its largely a protestant organisation. I even know people who have been told they cant join cos of there religeon (catholic).

[Ben Trismegistus]

Thats interesting, cos over here its largely a protestant organisation. I even know people who have been told they cant join cos of there religeon (catholic).
There are a lot of Catholics who are very much against Masonry. They describe it as a religion that is meant to usurp Catholicism in the minds of its members. This is, of course, not true.

[TYRRHENUS]

Ben, thank you for being so open!
Is the degree system posted earlier accurate? If so, does it change from country to country?

[Ben Trismegistus]

Ben, thank you for being so open!
Is the degree system posted earlier accurate? If so, does it change from country to country?
The degree system you posted relates to the Scottish Rite of Masonry, which is an offshoot of traditional Masonry.

Traditional or York Masonry consists of 3 degrees (sound familiar to any Wiccans out there?): Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Third degree is the highest level any Mason can attain. From there, you can move laterally to one of the other rites for additional degree work on the side, but it's not technically ABOVE 3rd degree, it's just separate. I will probably, once I've been in my own Lodge for a long enough time, seek entry into the Scottish Rite as well.

The degree system is accurate to the best of my knowledge. There may be a certain amount of difference from country to country, but it's miniscule.

[FeatherGoblinglimmer]

I thought masons weren't allowed to divulge lodge going ons? Give away secrets.

[usbear]

Question: must you be related to a Mason to be a candidate for Eastern Star membership?
Thanks for all the information straight from the Mason's mouth.
usbear

[Ben Trismegistus]

I thought masons weren't allowed to divulge lodge going ons? Give away secrets.
Well, there's plenty I can't tell you about, but that mostly revolves around passwords and handshakes. There's nothing wrong with telling you about the organization itself and my lodge in particular. We've gotten a reputation for being a "secret society", but we're really not all that secretive.


Question: must you be related to a Mason to be a candidate for Eastern Star membership?
Thanks for all the information straight from the Mason's mouth.
Here's some info from the official Eastern Star website:

http://www.easternstar.org/oes/join.html

It looks like you do have to be related to a Mason in some way.

[Arylon]

What exactly is the purpose or focus of the Masons? Is it basically just a social organization? Or is that something Masons aren't allowed to tell?

[Ben Trismegistus]

What exactly is the purpose or focus of the Masons? Is it basically just a social organization? Or is that something Masons aren't allowed to tell?
Well, the Masons are basically a fraternal organization whose purpose is assisting each man in his journey to become the best man he can be.

We use a set of symbols in describing the Fraternity (also called "The Craft" - Gardner got that from us too) called the rough ashlar and the smooth ashlar. We start out as the rough ashlar (stone), taken from the quarry, all rough edges, raw. And through good works, we journey through life until we reach our goal of being the smooth ashlar, symmetrical, beautiful, pure.

Basically, it's the same purpose as the medieval alchemists (many people take the "lead to gold" description too literally). It's spiritual without being religious.

How's that?

[cyberdrek]

Hey all,

A friend and I were recently having a conversation on the "secret society" called the Masons, and whether or not they were related to witchcraft or what. I said they practiced some sort of ceremonial magick but i did not know for sure. Does anyone know anything about this group? The are pretty popular in my area and I would like to know whether they are a threat of some sort or what. I have heard stories from people who have worked or volunteered at the Masonic Home (kind or like a nursing home for Mason's members) they say that the place was haunted, etc. pretty much just a big bad vibe location set off in the middle of nowhere. Anyway, I can't find much info out there, cosidering they are supposedly a "secret" society and nobody talks about it. If anyone knows anything I'd like to hear it so I dont look like a fool speaking heresy about a group I know nothing about.
Actually, the Freemasons and the Knights Templar were two groups who fought over who was the successor to Jesus. Most of their wars resided in the Bloodline manuscripts. If you do a search for them on the net, you'll find some good info. Or you could play Gabriel Knight 3, it's all about Reine Le Chateau, The Freemasons, The Knights Templar and the Priory of Sion. Most of the information in that game is pretty accurate. It validated against most of the information I was able to get from the net, and from books.

[Arylon]

Well, the Masons are basically a fraternal organization whose purpose is assisting each man in his journey to become the best man he can be.

We use a set of symbols in describing the Fraternity (also called "The Craft" - Gardner got that from us too) called the rough ashlar and the smooth ashlar. We start out as the rough ashlar (stone), taken from the quarry, all rough edges, raw. And through good works, we journey through life until we reach our goal of being the smooth ashlar, symmetrical, beautiful, pure.



Wow, that is very interesting! Thank you...I will have to do some more reading on the subject. :)

[Ben Trismegistus]

Actually, the Freemasons and the Knights Templar were two groups who fought over who was the successor to Jesus. Most of their wars resided in the Bloodline manuscripts. If you do a search for them on the net, you'll find some good info. Or you could play Gabriel Knight 3, it's all about Reine Le Chateau, The Freemasons, The Knights Templar and the Priory of Sion. Most of the information in that game is pretty accurate. It validated against most of the information I was able to get from the net, and from books.
Um, what?

No, that's all completely ridiculous.

[TYRRHENUS]

Does anyone know if the Masons have "passwords" as well? I have heard the following:
(I'm approximating the spelling here.) toobalcain and vahoom?
Also, every Masonic Temple/Lodge I've seen always has the windows blocked. What's up with that?
Thanks

[Ben Trismegistus]

Does anyone know if the Masons have "passwords" as well? I have heard the following:
(I'm approximating the spelling here.) toobalcain and vahoom?
Also, every Masonic Temple/Lodge I've seen always has the windows blocked. What's up with that?
Thanks
Vahoom? BWA! Yes, there are passwords. No, I can't tell you what they are.

There are handshakes too.

And the answer to the second question should be obvious. The windows are blocked so that you can't look in and see what they're doing. :) The word "cowan", in its pagan definition of "non-magician", is something else that Gardner "borrowed" from Masonry. The word literally means "one who interprets a stonemason despite never having been apprenticed". So, the windows are blocked, and there's a guard at the door, "to guard against the approach of cowans and eavesdroppers", as it says in the ritual.

[Kevin the Seeker]

Very good thread and great read.

I am in the process of joining the Masons and have found everything Ben has posted to be true. There are some great sites out there with a ton of information on them. I started with the Grand Lodge of Colorado's site. From there I found a lodge and a sponsor.

I have discovered that although being a Christian is not a recomondation for membership, to be above the third degree in the York Rite you must profess a faith in Jesus Christ. But there is no such requirement in the Scottish Rite or to be a Mason in a Blue Lodge (first three levels of Freemasonry).

I can emagen though a Pagan might run into some flack trying to join a lodge in the Bible Belt. but I have not found that here in Colorado and according to Ben's posts New York.

B.B.
Kevin the Seeker

[Calzaer]

There's a Masonic Temple... of sorts... just down the street from my university. Right smack in the middle of downtown Clemson. It's really just a door with the words "Masonic Lodge" or something on it, and a little holder with some brochures, squished in between a frame shop and an optometrist. I assume there must be, like, stairs behind the door, because otherwise they'd have to work in a space about three feet wide!

No, I don't know what the brochures say. I took one a long time ago, but have since totally forgotten its contents.

I also found out over Christmas that my great grandpa was a mason. He died recently, and I found his obituary in my grandmother's Bible while she was visiting - it said he was a member of Such-and-Such Masonic Lodge. That sure caused me to blink for a bit. I thought he was Southern Baptist! They don't go in for that thar oc-cult-y stuff, usually...

[Ben Trismegistus]

I have discovered that although being a Christian is not a recomondation for membership, to be above the third degree in the York Rite you must profess a faith in Jesus Christ. But there is no such requirement in the Scottish Rite or to be a Mason in a Blue Lodge (first three levels of Freemasonry).
I think there's only one offshoot of the York Rite that requires you to be Christian. It doesn't matter tho, because I plan to stick to Blue Lodge & Scottish Rite anyway.

[wandering_monk]

Ben, do you know of anyway to locate Masonic Lodes outside your area? I had been cheking into them in Western PA and found one in Pittsburgh, but IO cannot get any further info. The last time anything was added/edited on their website was 2001 and 90% of the links are broken.

I have been looking into the Masons for about a year or so and I am having trouble finding a local lodge, let alone finding someone in the area to discuss the Mason with and possibly become a sponser. Any information you could give me or guidance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

~WM

[Xander67]

I thought masons weren't allowed to divulge lodge going ons? Give away secrets.

on the contrary, you can find alot of good reliable masonic information online

[Xander67]

Very good thread and great read.

I am in the process of joining the Masons and have found everything Ben has posted to be true. There are some great sites out there with a ton of information on them. I started with the Grand Lodge of Colorado's site. From there I found a lodge and a sponsor.

I have discovered that although being a Christian is not a recomondation for membership, to be above the third degree in the York Rite you must profess a faith in Jesus Christ. But there is no such requirement in the Scottish Rite or to be a Mason in a Blue Lodge (first three levels of Freemasonry).

I can emagen though a Pagan might run into some flack trying to join a lodge in the Bible Belt. but I have not found that here in Colorado and according to Ben's posts New York.

B.B.
Kevin the Seeker

Actually Kevin, a Profession of faith in Jesus Christ is not required untill well beyond the 3rd degree.... I am a Pennsyvania Mason.. and have traveled to the Top Of the York Rite

there are 2 appendant bodies in York Rite masonry,

they are Chapter(royal arch degrees) and Council(cryptic Masonry),

each of them haveing 3 degrees and nither of them ask for a profession of faith in christ, but remember Masonry is based on a solid belilef in ONE GOD
here is an intersting link for history fans, it is a diagram of Brother Washington;s Apron, which is held at the Museum here in Philadelphia, where my Lodge, chapter, and council meet... I always learn something new when i go to the museum..

http://www.pagrandlodge.org/mlam/apron/

here is a brief overview of the Royal Arch Degrees,
http://www.yorkrite.com/chapter/ggramdeg.html

for a brief overview of the lessons the degrees of Cryptic Masonry teaches, click here
http://www.joppacouncil.org/degrees.htm

reguarding the Christian issue, I believe you are refering to the KNIGHTS TEMPLAR
read here....
http://www.knightstemplar.org/

[Xander67]

Ben, do you know of anyway to locate Masonic Lodes outside your area? I had been cheking into them in Western PA and found one in Pittsburgh, but IO cannot get any further info. The last time anything was added/edited on their website was 2001 and 90% of the links are broken.

I have been looking into the Masons for about a year or so and I am having trouble finding a local lodge, let alone finding someone in the area to discuss the Mason with and possibly become a sponser. Any information you could give me or guidance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

~WM

you can contact the Pa Grand Lodge, they have a directory online as well..
and by the way, if you are ever in Philadelphia, you are more than welcome to visit the Masonic Temple, it is right where city hall is, there are tours daily and always there are plenty of Brethern on hand to answer your questions. Let me know if you want to take a tour and I will come out too... I can show you the museum.

http://www.pagrandlodge.org

here is a link to the directory . from here you can locate a lodge in PA
http://search.pagrandlodge.org/

[WHITE EAGLE +++]

Many thanks to Ben Trismegistus (http://mysticwicks.com/member.php?u=4353) ( and Xander 67 as well) for some very staight forward, no-nonsense answers to some very pointed questions about Masons (well maybe a little hijincks but certainly no-nonsense =)

With all the speculation flying around in response to the original post I was wondering if any one would step up to the plate and keep some of the controvesy and misconception from adding to all the years of confusion about the Order of Masons. Thanks Ben. I wasn't about to say any thing, because I am not an expert on the subject despite much research on the Masons and the Templars. Being that I consider myself a Christian Mystic, my wife thinks that I should join. We'll see. In the mean time, I just wanted to say..



I appreciate the links and referance books you refered to us, but I don't think there is any substitute for just explaining things in our common language we can all understand. However interesting the books and links are, the authors can't seem to resist the temptation to keep things somewhat elitist and essoteric. As someone suggested, most members probably feel they are betraying the trust of the Fraternity by speaking openly about the Lodge. When so much of the rituals have been in an effort to conseal and protect the rites, it is no wonder few masons will speak up to a general audience, one that very likely won't listen openly or without judgement. I get the sense that a greater good might come of the masons being more outward, and less secretive to the public that they claim to serve.



Another source of misunderstanding is that, if I may be so bold to say, perhaps many of it's members don't understand thier founders colorful and rich history, and simply join as a matter of prestige or status. I don't see any thing wrong with that, heck my father once joined Knights of Columbus just so he could get a good deal on my wedding Hall!(LOL!) I doubt my dad could tell you anymore about that group or much about his Christian faith. He's a simple, honest, common working man, like many. Not a historian or a bible thumper. My point is many members over the years probably only scratched the surface of thier orgaization, payed dues, and showed up at meetings. Am I right Ben?

It is tempting to think that there is alot of "spooky' stuff going on behind those closed windows, but all in all they are just people, like us trying to find their faith and make it in the world. I'm just glad Ben was able to remind us of the Humanity that goes along with any practicing faith.

P.s.- Ben Ive seen posts with you acting as head of your Lodge posed with Apron and Gavel, pretty cool. Where do I sign up =}

[Xander67]

the only thing spooky about Freemasonry are the Malicious Lies that others have spread.
you will find that a true mason will gladly sit with you and answer any of your questions as best as he can...

in fact, here is something I recently found out about one of my favorite authours,
william SHakespeare........ enjoy :)
http://www.sirbacon.org/dodd.html (I ordered the book right away from amazon lol)

[moonchild]

I too have family in the Masons and The Order of the Eastern star. I've tried to talk to my family about the backgrounds of these groups, mostly the OES and the answers were honest but short. one thing i do know positively is that membership is low in many lodges which endangers the existance of these groups. my grandfather did ask me to be in the OES when i was 18 but i declined because i didn't know anything about it and wasn't interested to be part of anything my family was...so foolish!

what i know (as the daughter and granddaughter of a mason and OES...) there are open meetings, but you need to be invited, my dad goes to meetings every month, 1st-3rd degrees are local, and i use to hang out at the meetings all the time when i was little. our lodge does alot of community things, pancake breakfasts and such, and there are college scholarships available for family members of a mason or OES.

as a talk with my dad about what i do in rituals (group and solitary) the more we find similarites between the two. yes, there are guidelines for clothing, but the only time i have seen my family "dressed up" is for the degree meetings. when i recieved a scholarship to further my education i remember hearing the host say high priest and priestess....which made me take notice!

just an outsiders view...

MC

[Xander67]

I notice you are an art therapist, :) Im doing research on that..

You would love the OES :)

[Calzaer]

And remember, if you ever need a pro-bono stonecrafter, talk to Ben! :D

[Xander67]

Ben Is a very Good Man, he is one of the Best Stone Crafters I know!

[Ben Trismegistus]

I appreciate the links and referance books you refered to us, but I don't think there is any substitute for just explaining things in our common language we can all understand. However interesting the books and links are, the authors can't seem to resist the temptation to keep things somewhat elitist and essoteric.
Well, you're right there. But I don't think it's a matter of elitism. I feel, and a number of other Masons I know feel that we're part of something special. And even though there's not a lot that we need to remain secretive about, that secrecy itself is kind of fun - I enjoy being part of a community that is respected, but about which many rumors have flown. I think that a lot of us get caught up in the perceptions of Masonry as a "secret society". In many cases, in less esoteric Lodges, Freemasons are little more than a bridge club - hardly a cabal that rules the world. But the intrigue can be fun.


My point is many members over the years probably only scratched the surface of thier orgaization, payed dues, and showed up at meetings. Am I right Ben?
That's definitely true. I think that a lot of people join for the wrong reasons - for networking, for a way to get away from their wives from time to time. Most Masons don't realize that we're an esoteric society dedicated to personal spiritual growth - many simply go through the motions. I would like to see the word spread about the real reason we exist.

[LittleRhiannon]

I think there's only one offshoot of the York Rite that requires you to be Christian. It doesn't matter tho, because I plan to stick to Blue Lodge & Scottish Rite anyway.

Scottish Rite? Thats Masonic? There's a scottish rite temple just down the block and I always wondered what it was for...

Something I've always wondered, have you heard of the George Washington Masonic Temple? It's a really big building in Alexandria, do the masons still use it?

[Ben Trismegistus]

Scottish Rite? Thats Masonic? There's a scottish rite temple just down the block and I always wondered what it was for...
Yeah, there's a number of different branches of Freemasonry -- Scottish Rite is one of those.


Something I've always wondered, have you heard of the George Washington Masonic Temple? It's a really big building in Alexandria, do the masons still use it?
Yeah, I believe that the Lodge that George Washington belonged to. I'm sure it's still active.

[LittleRhiannon]

thats cool. I talking to my dad once I discovered that I have masons in my family, so maybe when I'm older I'll be able to join. I never really knew what it was about before, but it sounds interesting.

[Lil Miss Witchy]

thats cool. I talking to my dad once I discovered that I have masons in my family, so maybe when I'm older I'll be able to join. I never really knew what it was about before, but it sounds interesting.

I was raised in a Masonic family; As a child I was in "Job's Daughters" and after I turned 19 I was initiated into Eastern Star (The woman's organization)

Nothing really relating to witchcraft; more christian if anything...

[ms.behave]

The Biggest Secret- David Icke. I belive the masons are a form of a extraterrestial blood line.. Read the book, you'll find out...

also recommended---davinci's code


Cynthia

[DragonsChest]

My husband is a Free Mason, Scottish Rite, and holds membership in two Blue Lodges, but calls one his home lodge where he was "raised". My father, grandfather, and father-in-law were/are all masons and my female relatives were all OES. I have tried to get into the ES, but just can't seem to want to enough. I mean, I can join, I just don't want to. Neither of my kids wanted to be in DeMolay or Job's Daughters, but that's their decision.

Free Masons are fine decent people who do a lot of good in the community. I am proud to be married to one.



(I think I have all the terminolgy correct, but feel free to correct me!)

[Darkcreature]

I am a master mason and i know all you need to know about the craft talk to me...

[Ben Trismegistus]

The Biggest Secret- David Icke. I belive the masons are a form of a extraterrestial blood line.. Read the book, you'll find out...
You're joking, right?


I am a master mason and i know all you need to know about the craft talk to me...
Welcome aboard, brother!

[DragonsChest]

Welcome aboard, brother!


Question: doesn't Darkcreature have to prove himself to you before you start discussing Masonic-y type things together, so how do you do the funky secret handshakes online? :hehehehe:


Just joshing, Ben!

[Xander67]

Actually, That is a good question DragonsChest... there are a few online Masonic Comunities and Email lists,

there are modes of recognition that can be used here online, but I think for the most part, if anyone were to Identify themself to me as a brother, Id give them as much recognition in that respect as could be done in a public forum :)

[Xander67]

My husband is a Free Mason, Scottish Rite, and holds membership in two Blue Lodges, but calls one his home lodge where he was "raised". My father, grandfather, and father-in-law were/are all masons and my female relatives were all OES. I have tried to get into the ES, but just can't seem to want to enough. I mean, I can join, I just don't want to. Neither of my kids wanted to be in DeMolay or Job's Daughters, but that's their decision.

Free Masons are fine decent people who do a lot of good in the community. I am proud to be married to one.



(I think I have all the terminolgy correct, but feel free to correct me!)

your children would benifit from the youth programs, and would never hate you if you were to encourage them to join...

When I have children, I would want them to be brought up in the light... but would not force it on them.

[DragonsChest]

Actually, That is a good question DragonsChest... there are a few online Masonic Comunities and Email lists,

there are modes of recognition that can be used here online, but I think for the most part, if anyone were to Identify themself to me as a brother, Id give them as much recognition in that respect as could be done in a public forum :)


Really!?! Well, I for sure didn't know that. But then, I'm not a Mason, not privy to your secrets, so it could be right in front of me and I'd never know!!!! This is an interesting subject.

[DragonsChest]

your children would benifit from the youth programs, and would never hate you if you were to encourage them to join...

When I have children, I would want them to be brought up in the light... but would not force it on them.


Oh, you're right. It certainly wouldn't hurt them, but they've never shown any interest in it when given the opportunity. Or the Boy Scouts (lasted 1 1/2 years), or Girl Scouts (made it through Daisys). I don't push them to join clubs unless they are interested in them anymore, I've learned my lessons. Waste of my time and theirs. Plus the aggro----don't get me started on that!


My husband gets plenty out of his association with the Masons, and I feel it's a good thing for men to get together sometimes and fellowship with each other, without the female influence. But that of course goes the other way of course. Sometimes we just need to talk to our own sex about "stuff".

[Xander67]

there is Plenty to see, and learn and do, for women... women are a very important part of the craft.

there is a book called the Mystic Tie, it devotes an entire chapter on this subject....

there is never any harm in asking, in fact there is alot to be learned... and you will actually find that Freemasonry is very open about what they do... take a look at a few grand lodge sites,

:)

[DragonsChest]

there is Plenty to see, and learn and do, for women... women are a very important part of the craft.

there is a book called the Mystic Tie, it devotes an entire chapter on this subject....

there is never any harm in asking, in fact there is alot to be learned... and you will actually find that Freemasonry is very open about what they do... take a look at a few grand lodge sites,

:)

I agree. I've just never been very interested in pursueing the OES. But thanks anyway.

[Mab]

My dad was a Mason, and my bf is looking into becoming one, as his grandfather was one. My understanding is that the Masons are a sort of pseudo-Christian "secret" society--that is to say they believe in a Supreme Being & do use the King James Version of the Christian Bible as the Masonic Bible, however, they seem to have latched onto some of the metaphysical/mystical rituals & traditions of older crafts. The Masons rose in popularity to become a "secret" very political group in the sense that a country club would be political--the big movers & shakers & societal & governmental leaders were usually Masons way back in the day. So, it became the "in" thing to do. Mozart was a Mason (I believe), and there's speculation (as any of you who have seen the movie "From Hell" know) that Jack the Ripper was a Mason & was taken out by the Masons. Now they are really not "secret", and they do some excellent philanthropic work giving back to the community. They may not be witches or pagans per se, but they can be very supportive of other paths than their own. As a matter of fact, a lot of open full moon rituals that take place in my city take place at the local Masonic Hall. However, there is so much speculation & so many rumors about them & their history, it's kinda hard to pin down what's really the truth, isn't it?

[Ben Trismegistus]

My dad was a Mason, and my bf is looking into becoming one, as his grandfather was one. My understanding is that the Masons are a sort of pseudo-Christian "secret" society--that is to say they believe in a Supreme Being & do use the King James Version of the Christian Bible as the Masonic Bible, however, they seem to have latched onto some of the metaphysical/mystical rituals & traditions of older crafts.
Well, yes and no. The Masons are not a pseudo-Christian society. They are an ecumenical society whose only codified spiritual beliefs are the belief in a Deity of some sort and the immortality of the soul. However, the Christians, being the dominant paradigm, dominated the Masons for many years, giving it a Christian feel. In the last few years, many of us have been working to return Masonry to its esoteric roots. There's a bunch of pagans in my Lodge, and while it's true that we have a KJV Bible on the altar, it's generally viewed as a metaphorical representative for all the holy books. At other times we've had a Qu'ran, a Torah, and a Bhagavad-Gita on the altar.

Many of the great occultists of the nineteenth and twentieth century were Masons -- Crowley, Gardner, Waite, Mathers, etc.


Mozart was a Mason (I believe),
Yes, as was everyone from Beethoven to Duke Ellington to 14 American Presidents.


and there's speculation (as any of you who have seen the movie "From Hell" know) that Jack the Ripper was a Mason & was taken out by the Masons.
Well, there's also speculation that we killed Kennedy, but I don't believe it.


However, there is so much speculation & so many rumors about them & their history, it's kinda hard to pin down what's really the truth, isn't it?
We like it that way. *wink*

[Xander67]

actually, Jack the ripper was not a Freemason...

http://www.masonicinfo.com/ripper.htm

there are some interesting things said about Hollywood in this article :)

[Mab]

Well......I didn't say he WAS a FreeMason, just that there were rumours he was b/c it was so popular at that time to be in this "secret" society.

[Mab]

Well, yes and no. The Masons are not a pseudo-Christian society. They are an ecumenical society whose only codified spiritual beliefs are the belief in a Deity of some sort and the immortality of the soul. However, the Christians, being the dominant paradigm, dominated the Masons for many years, giving it a Christian feel. In the last few years, many of us have been working to return Masonry to its esoteric roots. There's a bunch of pagans in my Lodge, and while it's true that we have a KJV Bible on the altar, it's generally viewed as a metaphorical representative for all the holy books. At other times we've had a Qu'ran, a Torah, and a Bhagavad-Gita on the altar.

Many of the great occultists of the nineteenth and twentieth century were Masons -- Crowley, Gardner, Waite, Mathers, etc.


Yes, as was everyone from Beethoven to Duke Ellington to 14 American Presidents.


Well, there's also speculation that we killed Kennedy, but I don't believe it.


We like it that way. *wink*


See? Learned somethin' new didn't I? I tried researching the Masons for a friend, and couldn't find one real clear thing on them!

[Xander67]

well I never really thought anything about it, untill the movie came out, and then my lodge had a movie night, and we discussed the Jack the Ripper issue, and where the rumors came from..

[Kadynas]

I knew some people who were in Job's Daughters, but what exactly IS the Order of the Eastern Star? I mean, I've heard of it, and know it's for the women, but wgat do they do? Technically my grandfather was a Mason, so I could probably join if I wanted to but I don't even know what it is... :)

[Xander67]

here is something to help you

its a page from my Grand Lodge's website,

this is a page concerning the Eastern Star :)
http://www.pagrandlodge.org/freemason/1201/oes.html

[redthewitch75]

Can one of you Masons please build me a fireplace?

[Haruka2077]

Just my .02- My hubby became a Mason when we moved back home (with my encouragement). He's met a LOT of great people through it and it's provided him with many great role models and contacts. At 26, he's one of the 3 youngest people in his Lodge. It certainly does appear that Freemasonry, like many good establishments, is suffering from a deficiency of "new blood", which is a shame because they do a lot of good work in the community. If any of you are interested in the Masons I think you should seek out your local Masons Lodge and have a look around!
(Hi Ben and Xander!) :)

[DragonsChest]

Just my .02- My hubby because a Mason when we moved back home (with my encouragement). He's met a LOT of great people through it and it's provided him with many great role models and contacts. At 26, he's one of the 3 youngest people in his Lodge. It certainly does appear that Freemasonry, like many good establishments, is suffering from a deficiency of "new blood", which is a shame because they do a lot of good work in the community. If any of you are interested in the Masons I think you should seek out your local Masons Lodge and have a look around!
(Hi Ben and Xander!) :)


Well said! I agree! :graduate:

[Xander67]

Can one of you Masons please build me a fireplace?

Im sure one of us can :) Masons are people from all professions, there are DR's Lawyers, Plumbers, Engineers, Bricklayers....... but if it is JUST a fireplace you are looking for, you can find a good contractor in the Yellow Pages :)

[Ben Trismegistus]

It's true that there's a deficiency of "new blood". We're doing ok in the cities (in NYC, we've got a lot of young people), but in more rural and suburban areas, Masonic lodges have turned into retirement communities or bridge clubs. We need a resurgence of interested young esoterics to breathe life back into the Fraternity.