The oldest fraternal organization on the planet, Freemasonry has been a source of mystery and excitement for over 250 years. Dating back to the 14th Century, the secret society has become known for its strange rituals, use of symbols, and archaic terminology.
The question remains: Who started it and why? Who are these “Freemasons” we hear so much about? Let’s take a look at their history and significance today.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that works to improve the communities in which its members live. The organization is open to all men over the age of 18, regardless of their religion or ethnicity. Freemasons meet in groups called lodges. They follow a set of rules and a moral code based on the philosophy of “Freemasonry: making good men better.” Members are often called Masons, and the organization is sometimes called the Masonic Society or the Masonic Order.
History of Freemasonry
Freemasonry has existed since the mid-1500s. It’s believed that King Henry the VIII was one of the founding members of the secret society. After his death the reign of King Charles the I banned Freemasonry in 1644 because of an increase in political unrest. During the English Civil War, the government feared that the secret society would be used for political purposes, so all Masonic lodges were declared illegal. During the reign of King George the II, Freemasonry was once again permitted, and the society grew from there.
Who Started Freemasonry?
Unfortunately, historians do not know who exactly started Freemasonry. It’s believed that the secret society began as a network for stonemasons to find work. The first Freemasons were actually stonemasons who were employed to build King Solomon’s Temple. The organization has grown into a society that welcomes anyone interested in its teachings.
Why Were the Freemasons Created?
The Freemasons were created as a way to connect builders across Europe. During the Middle Ages, builders traveled from town to town to find work. It was a difficult way to make a living. By forming a network of stonemasons, these men were able to find steady work. Eventually, the organization grew to include people in all professions. The Freemasons are a philanthropic society that focuses on bettering their community through volunteer work.
How Many Degrees Are There in Freemasonry?
There are many degrees within the Masonic order. The first three degrees are the Blue degrees. The second three degrees are the York or American degrees. The final three degrees are the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. The Blue and York degrees are the most commonly practiced degrees.
What are Masonic Symbols?
There are many Masonic symbols used by members of the secret society. They include the square, the compass, the rule, and the letter G. These symbols are meant to represent the virtues of truthfulness, honesty, loyalty, and integrity. The Freemasons also use the term “making good men better” as a way to describe the organization’s overall mission.
Summing up
Freemasonry is the oldest and most famous secret society in the world. There are many degrees to the organization, and members are expected to live by the virtues of truthfulness, honesty, loyalty, and integrity. These ideals are represented by symbols such as the square, the compass, and the letter G. It’s believed that King Henry the VIII was one of the Founding Fathers of Freemasonry, and the reign of King Charles the I resulted in the ban of Freemasonry in 1644. During the reign of King George the II, Freemasonry was once again permitted, and the society grew from there.
