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Here are the answers to top questions about Freemasonry

Freemasonry is always considered a society filled with mysteries and controversies. This secret society is all about making new friends and acquaintances. It is all about helping others and bringing a change in the society. Freemasonry is one of the oldest fraternal organizations whose objective is to make the man a better person.

The members of this organization are taught self-knowledge through participation in progressive ceremonies. The members are expected to be of high moral standards and follow the right path.

Being a secretive society, there are many answered questions and doubts about Freemasonry. In this post, we will help you clarify all your doubts about Freemasonry.

Why Freemasonry is considered a secretive society?

Freemasonry is considered a secretive society because the masons hardly talk about the happenings inside the Masonic lodge. The secrets gestures and codes of Freemasonry are not used indiscriminately and solely a test of membership. It is a great opportunity for the masons to talk openly about the Masonic ceremonies and rituals. However, there are some aspects of Freemasonry that are taught to only those who go through the initiations to keep in a proper perspective. These aspects are not the secrets that are best communicated in a specific manner.

Why does not freemasonry admit women?

Freemasonry is the all-male fraternal organization with unwritten rules. But, there are a few appendant bodies that admit women such as Order of Easter Stars, Daughter of Isis, Rainbow Girls etc. Some of the bodies comprise of mixed gender that has varying degrees of recognition.

There is a stipulation that regular Freemasonry is meant for men based on the ancient documents held sacred by collective grand lodges. But, this does not mean that principles of Freemasonry cannot be understood by women. The exclusion is predicated on the need for restricted brotherhood and belief in rituals.

What happens in the lodge meetings?

The lodge meetings are conducted in two parts. There are a certain amount of administrative procedures like - minutes of the last meeting, discussing the financial matter, proposing and balloting new members, the election of officers and many more. Some lodges even conduct ceremonies for admitting new masons as well as the annual installation of masters. The ceremony for admitting the mason is a slight dramatic in terms of the principles and lessons taught in the craft.

Where did Freemasonry start and what is its history?

The exact origin of Freemasonry is not known. According to documented sources, the recorded initiation was of Sir Robert Moray in the year 1641. The meeting at lodges of Edinburg took place in 1946, which was initiated by Sir Robert Moray. The operative stonemasons who built the cathedrals had lodges in which they discussed trade affairs.

The operative lodges began to attempt in the 1600s, which took over the lodges and turned them from operative to speculative lodges. There was a group that was interested in the promotion of political and religious tolerance when the difference of opinion on religion and politics lead to a bloody civil war.

These groups want to make better men and build a better world. They took the idea of building as central allegory i.e. Bible to form their system.  The content in the Bible was of King Solomon’s Temple that provided the basis of administration of a master, Warden. Treasurer and Secretary.  The operative mason tools provided them with a wealth of symbols.

What are the degrees in Freemasonry?

The basic Freemasonry consists of three “craft” degrees namely - entered apprentice, fellow craft, master mason. These are completed by the royal arch degree. Besides, there are many ‘additional’ degrees and orders that are added to the basis of the craft and royal arch.

Some of these degrees are numerically superior to the master mason degree. However, it does not affect the fact that they are not in any way superior to the craft degrees.  The ranks that these degrees carry have no standing with the craft and royal arch degrees.

Does it cost to be a freemason?

Yes. The charges to become a freemason varies from one lodge to the other. There is an initiation fee on the entry and an apron to buy. The member has to pay the annual subscription to the lodge which covers his membership and cost of running the lodge. The members are given refreshments after every lodge meeting, the cost of which is included in the annual subscription. 

The members can give donations to the lodges. However, it is up to the individual what he gives. It should always be without any detriment to his responsibilities. The member may join as many lodges as long as his pocket allows him.  

How to find a suitable lodge?

There may be several lodges in your locality. You can check the yellow pages that will list the lodges in your community. You can contact the one that is closer to you. Lodges typically conduct meetings on the first Thursday of the month. You can take an appointment in advance or meet them informally. The best way would be to contact the lodges via email or phone. Check the state Grand Lodge website for complete listing of lodges near you.

What is the requirement of becoming a Mason?

There are some basic requirements to become a Mason. It is crucial to learn certain aspects of the fraternity and degree of expectation that will enhance your knowledge about Freemasonry. The individual should be of good reputation and have a moral disposition. Additionally, he should have the desire to become a Freemason.

Making good men better is the purpose of Freemasonry. The process to make individuals better is achieved by teaching and applying masonic lessons to one's life.

How do I become a Freemason?

Freemasonry is open to people from different religions and races, If you know someone who is already a Freemason, you can contact them and tell your desire to become a Freemason. They can provide you with detailed information on Freemasonry and steps involved in becoming a Freemason. You might like to attend a few lodge events before you make the decision.

Talk to your friends and family members before you send a petition. Your petition will be reviewed by a membership committee. You will be initiated as a Freemason once your application is accepted.

What are the commitments of becoming Freemason? 

Becoming a Mason takes several months from the time of initiation until you have finished your degrees. There is some side work that needs to be completed that amounts to little homework. Every member of the fraternity has to go through this process. You will be assigned a brother who will help you through the entire process. 

Being a Mason, you are expected to attend the lodges meetings once or twice monthly. Beyond that, there are a few activities going on such as - family outing, community services etc throughout the year. The members of Masonic lodge will participate in the events based on their time and interest.        

What is the objective of Masons?

Freemasonry is a beautiful system of morality that is illustrated by symbols. The main objective of masons is to be good citizens by practicing high moral standards in friendship and integrity. The core mission is to encourage members to serve their own community while developing team spirit and fellowship.

Freemasonry is all about making good men better and develop the world around them through ethical discussions, social exchange, and education.

What is a Masonic lodge? 

The Masonic lodges are the basic organizational units of Freemasonry where the Masons meet on a regular basis. The Freemason is generally entitled to visit any lodge in any jurisdiction. In some jurisdictions, the privilege is restricted to Master Masons only. 

The common types of lodges are - Blue Lodge, research lodge and mother lodge, The Blue Lodge is also known as craft Lodge refers to the first three degrees. The research lodge has the purpose of furthering masonic scholarship. The Mother Lodge is used to identify the lodge where the candidate was first made a Mason.

What do symbols represent in Freemasonry?

Freemasonry is an inherent system of symbols that could say something about the culture and tradition of stonemasons. Square and compass is the common symbol in Freemasonry that represents the architect’s tools used in Masonic rituals. Some lodges explain these symbols as lessons in conduct.          

Another common symbol is ‘G’ that stands for God and Geometry to remind the masons that the supreme creator of the Universe is watching them and they should always be good in their deeds.

What is the Masonic Temple? 

Masonic Temple is the room or hall where the Masonic lodge meets. It may also refer to the spiritual space of the meeting. It is common for the Masonic lodges to form their temples either in private homes or halls that could be rented out for Masonic purpose.

The first Masonic temple was built in France on the year 1765. As most of the lodges could not afford to build their own facilities and hence rented rooms in commercial establishments. The term Masonic temple is applied not to the symbolic form of the Temple, but to the physical place in which this took place.

What do the secret handshakes in Freemasonry mean?

The Freemasons are known for having a series of handshakes and passwords by means of which their members can identify each other. The masons need to memorize the series of hand signals all of which indicate different days of the week. 

The Freemasons changed their handshakes and signals periodically to keep them secret. The masonic handshakess are used by the Freemasons to recognize that they are the brothers of the same order.

Can I leave the organization once I have become a Mason? 

Yes. You are free to leave the organization whenever you want. However, the knowledge you have gained will remain with you forever for the rest of the life. The fraternal bond of Brotherhood makes the requirement to remain a Freemason.  Each Mason is required to learn through initiation and accept a variety of challenges that are rewarding.

The knowledge of the lodge and ceremonies are followed by social gatherings. These offer the members a framework for character development, compassion, and enjoyment of shared experiences.

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A guide for esoteric freemasonry

The meaning of Freemasonry is different for different people.   If you ask ten freemasons about their values and missions,  you will get 10 different answers.  The straight answer of Freemasonry is to make good men better.  The freemasons aim is to educate an initiate on the God concealed index of his own essence. It is represented symbolically with letter G in the middle of square and compasses to show the essence of God.

The  three Masonic degrees take the candidates through a journey steeped in history and symbolism to teach them lessons of how to raise his divine power and realize that his relationship to a higher power.  The purpose of Freemasonry is an attempt to realize the man's place in the universe.  The Masonic experts believe in a relationship between the modern Freemasonry and ancient Egypt.

There is a great similarity between the freemasonry and mystic symbols and their initiative procedure.

The cable tow

The candidate entering the freemasonry blindfolded and has a rope tied around his neck.  He is led in a circuit room and the rope acts as a cable tow.  As with many masonic symbols,  the cable-tow is rooted in antiquity.

The Egypt candidate is also blindfolded to represent the state of darkness before emerging into the light of knowledge -  just like the Freemasonry.

White apron

The Freemasons are presented with a white apron that consists of a square overlapped with a triangle.   The effects of the triangular flap dinner the divine spark that one must endeavor to recover.  There is no other figure that symbolizes this better than the triangle.

Point inside a circle

The point inside a circle is an important Masonic symbol with perpendicular lines steeped in antiquity.  According to the earlier Egyptian monuments,  the center of circle bordered by two perpendicular lines is used to symbolize God -  who has no beginning and no end.

The triangle of the divine spark

The three points of the triangle represent conscious mind, subconscious mind, and the collective unconscious.  According to ancient Egypt lessons,  the triangle over a square symbolizes the progression from earthly existence to spiritual existence.

The honeycomb

The honeycomb is an important emblem of the third degree of Freemasonry.  The depictions of bee and honey in Egyptian carvings show the importance of beekeeping and honey. The biggest part of Masonic teaching is secrecy and silence.  It is believed that the freemasons apparently has a great regard for silence and secrecy and the mysteries of the religion.

Besides the above,  there are many theories that show the connection between ancient Egypt and modern Freemasonry. Till date, nobody can claim to know the full history of Freemasonry and origin of its symbols.

Occult revival of Freemasons

The body of Freemasonry is composed of different types of individuals whose masonic values vary according to that of individuals personality and interest.  The Freemasonry is very uncomfortable with the notion that optimism played a role in the craft.  The Freemasons and their activities during the laws are governed by clear rules and regulations concerning the individual contact.  None of these rituals include or promote occult practices.

The modern definitions of the term occult equate with esotericism.  Here we use the term occult to signify the beliefs and practices that involve evoking the power of unknown. The term esoteric refers to the knowledge and belief that are hidden and understandable by those initiated in their meaning.

Many Freemasons have participated in the study of the occult and have engaged in practices associated with occultism.  These masons have contributed heavily to the body of occult literature and founded an organization based on the of occult belief.

Masonic Mysticism

We already know the fact that the structure and appointments of the Masonic Lodges are symbolic.  The earth is a unique representation of the universe and God.  It is an image of the complex constitution,  this earth, and his heavens.    The Mason learns to visualize himself to the first lessons in self-knowledge and attainment.

The Masonic initiation contemplates going with oneself until one reaches the center i.e  the divine principle.  Freemasonry came into its present form in the age of enlightenment. Its members are considered freemasons who perceived their inquiries as a normal curiosity.

Many Masons have inquisitive minds and want to learn more about the universe around them. Those who are of this mindset inquire about the universe. It must be admitted that a handful of freemasons maintain an interest in esoteric activities. But, this does not mean that Freemasonry itself is mystic or esoteric.

Is freemasonry esoteric?

There is a misconception that Freemasonry is inherently esoteric.  However, others think that the craft is a fraternal community that celebrates friendship and mutual support.  Esotericism is intended or is likely to be understood by a small number of people with special knowledge of interest.  It is usually taken to the realities that are not generally understood or have a spiritual component in them. The layers of esotericism build successively upon the other.

Now, the question is - what kind of specialized knowledge? Are there really any secrets in Freemasonry?

Well, it is difficult to answer these questions. The teaching of the immortality of the soul is a lesson in alchemy. It is better to avoid trying to enshrine the preferred interpretations as the truth.

If someone described himself as an esoteric mason, it means he perceives and embraces what appears to be western in nature. Freemasonry is no doubt a eclectic organization that includes personal development, mysticism, and spiritualism. It may include different aspects of history that are not looked at by the mainstream historian.

Interest in esoteric masonry has come back as it looks at aspects of resonance with symbols of Freemasonry that helps to develop faith. It is not strictly what the values of masonry are, but is one aspect of it.

Bottom line

The term freemasonry reminds us of some mystery because of the lack of information and unawareness. Becoming familiar with different aspects of the Masonic organization offer a better understanding of what Masons do. The masons follow the path that leads them to the most beautiful and valuable phase in their life.

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Customize your vehicle with Masonic decals

Have you got a message that requires expressing, but you simply don’t know how? Suppose you want to promote world peace and brotherhood and you want other drivers and pedestrians to notice your message? Maybe you need to sketch them a picture or perhaps, print a mini poster. Masonic car decals can do exactly the same.

Using special symbols, figures, or shapes, masonic car decals can get your message across to people with little effort.  Masonic decal designers know exactly how to use shapes and symbols to convey a message. Using the right colour combinations, symbols, and shapes are also helpful in conveying a message for those who may have little time to read and absorb the message.

Masonic decals for cars are readily available in different shapes and sizes. You can procure them from online stores or a local Masonic lodge. These unique captivating stickers are great for expressing brotherhood messages, conveying information, busting stereotypes, embellishing your cars, or simply adding personal interest.

Should you customize your vehicle?

Car customization provides avid car lovers with an opportunity to take pride in their investment. Likewise, not everyone holds the required skills to customize their vehicles completely. Yet, there are myriad car decorations available in the market at the moment such as masonic decals that let even novice car lovers the chance to modify the look of their car and drive a message out to others about their beliefs and hobbies.

While it might not be necessary for you to deck your vehicle with masonic decals, you always have the liberty to select stickers that match your taste and preferences. However, you should know that customization, no matter what it may be for, offers you an opportunity to be creative, add a touch of your personality to the vehicle, and remain ahead of times. Customizing vehicles through decals is a contemporary way of expressing your perspective and thoughts.

Types of car decals that are trending in the market

If you take a closer look, many vehicles these days sport car decals which have been designed based on Masonic signs and symbols. These car decals are printed keeping in mind the Masonic symbol of the Freemasons, a fraternal organization which believes in brotherhood, unity, liberty, and equality.

There are millions of freemasons across the world. They have collectively helped to sustain the organization by conducting regular ritual meetings and following the rules. Although some Masonic groups have evolved over time with new ritual meetings and rules, the one thing that has always remained constant is their age-old symbol which represents every member. The symbol consists of an elaborate square and compass which signifies brotherhood, truth, and liberty.

The market these days is flooded with a number of products representing the trademark masonic symbol. One of them being masonic car decals which are the most sought-after car decoration accessories. There are a variety of masonic decal designs available in the market, all of which are made of vinyl or digitally printed on an adhesive vinyl to make the decal last longer.

The advantage of using vinyl masonic decals for automobiles is that they are water resistant and weather-proof. They do not fade or peel off during harsh weather conditions or car washes, thus making them durable and able to be proudly exhibited in your car for many years to come.

Moreover, these vinyl masonic car decals are highly versatile in nature. You can place them almost anywhere in your car. Be it the mirror, bonnet, or the bumpers, these decals merge well on any surface. With such trendy car decors, you are able to swank you masonic car decal proudly with a wide number of designs, colours, shapes, and sizes to select from.  

How to use them on your car?

Vinyl printed Masonic car decals have a number of clever uses. They can be used casually or for conveying a strong message. Many vinyl masonic decals are usually printed in rectangles, squares, ovals, or triangles that merge well anywhere on your car.

Getting your masonic car decals fixed on the rear window or bumper of your car will get it noticed by other drivers and pedestrians. Large custom-made masonic decals can be used as a popular car décor on the bonnet. However, if you aren’t the flamboyant types, you can always purchase a small sized masonic decal and stick it on the front window.

Another creative way of using your masonic car decal is by suspending it from your rear-view mirror. All you need to do is pierce a hole on the extreme top of the decal. Be careful not to pierce through the imprint. Insert a ribbon through the piercing and tie it on the mirror. This is a great way to reminding you and your travel partners about brotherhood and unity.

In you are a family person and would want your children, wife, and relatives to get the most out of decals; you should purchase family car stickers. If these die cut vinyl masonic car decals are not available, you can always look for printers who can have them customized for you. The design patterns in such stickers would vary, especially sporting warm and welcoming colours in the background.

Family Masonic car decals are designed to look great on the rear window.  Although they are generally designed to be placed on your auto, they can look good wherever you want to place them. Family masonic decals can be used to augment your dashboard or the interior of your car.

If you really want to upgrade the overall appearance of your car, look no further than a unique well-designed masonic car decal. These beautiful yet simple car decors can be placed anywhere on your car. You can also create a variety of other décor items with vinyl stickers, including a hanging car décor. By using such trendy and classic masonic car stickers, you can help your vehicle look presentable and unique – any which way you want!