The idea of Masonic brotherhood probably descends from a 16th-century legal definition of a "brother" as one who has taken an oath of mutual support to another. Accordingly, Masons swear at each degree to support and protect their brethren unless they have broken the law. [63]

Jan 5, 2025 · In the 17th and 18th centuries these lodges adopted the trappings of ancient religious orders and chivalric brotherhoods. Freemasons themselves, over the centuries, have developed a mythologized history for their society, tracing their lineage back to King Solomon. What do Freemasons believe?

Freemasonry (or Masonry) is dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God. It uses the tools and implements of ancient architectural craftsmen symbolically in a system of instruction designed to build character and moral values in its members.

Dec 9, 2020 · Members of the enigmatic Masonic brotherhood include prominent politicians, Founding Fathers and titans of business. In modern times, Masons are known for donating millions to charity. But who...

Freemasonry in the United States is the history of Freemasonry as it was introduced from Britain and continues as a major secret society to the present day. It is a fraternal order that brings men together (and women through its auxiliaries) to gain friendship and opportunity for advancement and community progress.

Freemasonry is a fascinating and ancient fraternal organization that has captivated the imaginations of millions worldwide. From its humble origins in medieval stonemasonry guilds to its modern-day emphasis on personal growth and brotherhood, …

Freemasonry is a fraternity that values brotherhood, charity, and truth. Members are expected to exhibit the utmost tolerance and gentlemanly conduct both in Lodge and in their daily lives. Freemasonry is not a religion, but members are required to believe in a supreme being.

Freemasonry's long history includes its early development from organised bodies of operative stonemasons to the modern system of speculative lodges organised around regional or national "Grand Lodges". The earliest masonic texts each contain …

Freemasonry is the most widely recognized fraternal society in the world. It is a centuries-old brotherhood of men from different religious, ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds. It requires each member to believe in God, while accepting that his fellow members may hold very different beliefs than his own.

Masons develop a connection built on shared beliefs and experiences. This creates a profound bond that transcends ordinary kinship. Brothers support and challenge one another, share knowledge and wisdom, and provide light and hope in times of darkness.