#How To Become A Member Of Freemason

[joinfreemasonilluminati]

.FREEMASON CHURCH IN NAIROBI Kenya

The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts welcomes those qualified men who are interested in the possibility of joining our ranks — to become a member of a Fraternity whose members and principles have shaped our country and our history. Men age 18 and older who believe in a Supreme Being and meet the qualifications and standards for membership are eligible to petition a Lodge. We welcome men of every…

[cobragardens]

Aziraphale's Ring Is a Queer Symbol

In a previous post I hold forth about the symbolism of the lion rampant on the escutcheon of Aziraphale's signet ring. The upshot is that the golden lion is used by Heaven as a symbol of its threat and its merciless, murderous corporate culture, and I argue that in S3 Aziraphale must subvert this stamp of Heavenly ownership and symbolically redefine the golden lion by summoning the courage to be soft.

Now I've learned some new stuff about how signet rings are worn. Come, sistren, and get nerdy with me.

Aziraphale's ring is one of several we see angels wearing in Good Omens. Here in an indispensably useful post, @indigovigilance lists the known rings of Show Omens angels and those rings' qualities and placement. Note how of the angels who have rings, everyone except Saraqael and Aziraphale wear their rings on their LEFT pinky fingers. There's a reason for this.

Since the medieval period in Britain and Germany, and from there in the U.S., signet rings have been bestowed by professional associations as a sign of membership, particularly at the upper end of society: trade guilds, colleges, hospitals, the Church(es), noble families, and societies like the Freemasons all issue(d) signet rings to some of their members. The traditional placement for signet rings of show professional affiliation is the left pinky finger.

In fact, as it was not socially acceptable in or past the Victorian era for men to wear rings on more than one finger, men who wore signet rings and wedding rings both would have their wedding rings sized to fit the pinky finger below the signet. If a ring had to be moved to preserve masculinity, it wasn't the pinky ring that was going anywhere. Family signets can be worn on any of a number of fingers, but since the Victorian period the men of the British Royal Family (who are from Germany) have been especial sticklers about wearing their signets on their left pinky fingers as well.

So. If you're British and you have a signet ring that's meant to indicate professional affiliation, you wear it on your left pinky.

But Aziraphale wears his signet ring on his RIGHT hand.

Before I offer my opinion on what that means, here's some more fun background on the history and significance of pinky rings in Anglo-American culture:

The Victorian period was when pinky rings started to become associated with queerness.

As fellow members of the Hundred Guineas Club, Oscar Wilde and Aziraphale would likely have been acquaintances.

According to Wikipedia (ibid.):

"During the Victorian era, both single men and women uninterested in pursuing marriage could wear a ring on the little finger of their left hand."

This quickly expanded to a pinky ring on either hand. Here's Wikipedia's picture of farmer and philanthropist Caroline Rose Foster in 1917, the Edwardian era, wearing a pinky ring on her right hand:

Do you smell a euphemism in "uninterested in pursuing marriage"? I do!

By midcentury--so only 30 years after Ms Foster up there--American and British queers, both men and women, were using signet pinky rings specifically to signal queerness to each other.

"For gay men in the 1950’s and 60’s, a way of signaling to others was through the wearing of a signet ring on the pinkie finger."

"During the 1950’s and 60’s signet rings were worn to signify membership of the gay community; both lesbians and homosexual men wore such rings."

The pinky rings @indigovigilance points out Maggie wears may mean she's an angel; they also match her midcentury lesbian style. Devious of the costumers to give her pinky rings on both hands rather than commit to one or the other.

Screenshot by @indigovigilance

To review, there are three reasons a person in Anglo-American culture might wear a pinky ring:

They just feel like it--This can be any kind of ring and can be worn on either hand or both

Professional affiliation--This is a signet ring worn on the left pinky finger

To signal queerness--This is a signet ring and can be worn on either pinky finger

Aziraphale has worn a signet ring on his RIGHT pinky finger at least since he repaired the Eastern "Gate" in the Wall of Eden, so I'm not suggesting that he adopted the 20th-century pinky signet trend to signal his queerness (although as a clockably 'gay' 'man,' Soho fixture, and member of the Hundred Guineas Club, he may well have started it). What I am suggesting is that Aziraphale has been given a ring by Heaven that Heaven intends him to use to show his professional affiliation, but as with the flaming sword he gives away, Aziraphale doesn't use the ring for its intended purpose. By wearing the ring on his right hand, Aziraphale removes the option of interpreting it as a symbol of his professional affiliation with Heaven and renders it strictly a personal ornament. He subverts a symbol of Heavenly menace into an object of beauty and queerness.

I mean queerness in both senses. If a human takes any symbolic notice of his ring, they'll note the signet is on his right hand and conclude Aziraphale is gay. If another angel takes any notice of it, they'll conclude Aziraphale is a bit odd--that he doesn't pay attention to the finer points of how to fit in with the archangels, doesn't do things like other angels do.

In conclusion, pinky signet rings as a queer signal are just the fucking coolest and I vote we bring them back immediately.

[sovaghoul]

History

This is the history of Wicca as I have learned it from my Gardnerian Elders. I’m including this in a Wicca 101 series, because I feel that knowing where your beliefs and pratices come from is important.

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🔮 Beginnings in England

Gerald Brosseau Gardner, a British civil servant, claimed that at some time in the 1930s, he came upon a Witchcraft Family Tradition (or FamTrad) practicing in the New Forest area of England. He was later granted admittance to this Coven, having proved to the High Priestess’ satisfaction that he had “Witch Blood,” that a blood ancestor of his was a Witch of some kind or another (he did not claim a direct, unbroken lineage of parent-to-child teachings of Witchcraft from this ancestor, however, simply that this ancestor existed and was a Witch). This was necessary because, at that time, Witchcraft was not only illegal in England, but also closed off to those not “of the Blood.”

As time passed, Gardner saw his Covenmates growing older, and their children uninterested in taking up the practices. He didn’t want to see these beliefs die out, so with permission from his High Priestess, he began to write fiction inspired by his beliefs and experiences (“High Magick’s Aid” and “A Goddess Arrives”).

In order to teach others, though, Gardner needed a different way to say what his path taught; as was a requirement of his Coven, he had taken an Oath not to reveal certain specifics of the Coven’s practices. Additionally, Gardner also said he did not receive complete materials, being that much of the FamTrad was oral and performed by rote and from memory, as opposed to being written down. As such, parts of it were, unfortunately, naturally lost over time. So, passing down his learnings as they stood would have been impossible at worst, and impractical at best.

But how to avoid breaking his Oaths and still teach the Witchcraft he knew? First, Gardner again obtained permission from his High Priestess to move forward with this endeavor, and then he set about finding new ways and words to express the same ideas. He did this by reading the works of other Occultists (and in some cases, joining other Occult orders, such as the Freemasons and the Order of the Golden Dawn), researching cultural anthropology and other related subjects, drawing from his many travels to India and Malaysia, and reading poetry, especially that of Rudyard Kipling. In short, he started constructing new Lesser Mysteries.

(An aside, Gardner always called the religion “Witchcraft” or "the Witch-cult" in his writings, never using the word “Wicca.” Additionally, he called the practitioners, “the Wica” (yes, one C) or simply “Witches.”)

When the British anti-Witchcraft laws were finally repealed in 1951 and replaced with the Fraudulent Mediums Act, he published non-fiction books on the subject (“The Meaning of Witchcraft” and “Witchcraft Today”). He used these books as a way to get the word out, to attract the right sorts of people to him so that they could become his students.

Gardner may also have based what are now the Gardnerian Tradition’s rituals on what he’d already been practicing, but unless a very unethical member of his FamTrad comes forward, we won’t know exactly (and if we think about it, we couldn’t trust that information anyway, because they have already proved themselves a liar, either by passing off a fabrication as truth, or by breaking their Oath). However, I do feel safe in saying that his intention was retain the same feel, evoke the same emotions and experiences, and impart the lessons in similar fashion as his FamTrad, and that he would not have began teaching what we now know as Wicca unless he felt his work had in fact achieved those aims.

With these changes to rituals, wording, etc., Gardner was able to begin teaching non-hereditary seekers, and his body of works eventually became known as the Gardnerian Tradition of Wicca. Others he worked with added more information and writings, and this Tradition has in turn inspired other Traditions, and become the foundation of all of modern Wicca as it is known today, as well as influencing other forms of modern Paganism. After a decade or so, Gardner’s Witchcraft made it’s way to America, through Raymond and Rosemary Buckland, who came to New York in the early 1960s and began teaching and Initiating Americans into Wicca.

(Another aside, the term “Gardnerian” came from other English Witches who disapproved of this venture, and was meant to be insulting or derogatory. Over time, it has become accepted as a way to distinguish between what Gardner put forth and those other, perhaps older, practices, now often referred to as Traditional Initiatory Witchcraft, or TIW. It reminds me a lot of the debate between using Wicca or Neo-Wicca that was addressed before, but I digress.)

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🔮 Progression in America

Gardner set out certain rules for this path, but there has been much deviation in the last decades. This is due, in part, to a group that formed in 1970, who called themselves The Pagan Way. There was much excitement around these teachings, but at the time, Covens were even harder to find and contact than today, especially in the United States. Additionally, interest was so great that Covens couldn't accommodate it all, and new ones couldn't form fast enough. The Pagan Way put together an introductory packet of sorts, with limited Outer Court (as opposed to the “Inner Court” of Coven Initiates) information, as a sort of “teaser” to give people a way to practice “in the mean time” until they could be Initiated into a Coven. It was not a complete system in the same way Traditions are, nor did it contain Oathbound information.

Somehow, either this intention was misunderstood, or some in the general populace disregarded it, and the Pagan Way materials began to be treated as a complete religious system. Authors and publishers ran with it, and the idea of Solitary Wicca was born. This also, in fact, led to the necessity of Eclecticism, since the system these Solitary Practitioners were using was missing key elements, and they needed supplementary material to fill in the gaps.

The first popular book to espouse the idea that one didn't need a Coven to practice Wicca, was "Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner" by Scott Cunningham, first published in 1988. To be clear, Cunningham was never an Initiate of any Wiccan Tradition (the only way to be considered Wiccan at the time), but he did similar work as The Pagan Way, putting forth a way to practice without such an Initiation. The difference being, his work was intended as a complete system, rather than a place-holder for later study with a Coven.

Over the last near-century, other Traditions have formed, as was alluded to previously. There are also a large number of Solitary, often Eclectic, "un-affliated" Wiccans, practicing on their own, or perhaps with a small group of friends, and/or sometimes attending open public rituals. Traditions do still thrive, proving the point that there is no one set of Lesser Mysteries that is correct for everyone.

So, as to the debate about Wicca’s age, it depends on if one defines a religion by its beliefs, or its practices. If one means the forms practiced today, then no, Wicca is not ancient, it has only existed since about the 1950s, with the perhaps more prolific Eclectic forms being even more recent. But if one means Witchcraft, and the beliefs our modern practices are built around, then those reach back to time immemorial.

Next post: Ethics

[yr-obedt-cicero]

Why exactly do you think that Jefferson is not a good person personality-wise? We know of his actions, but what of just how he is?

Correction; I don't think he's a hero, or a villain. Due to my lack of interest of learning about him - which isn't deep or anything, he just genuinely does not interest me - I can come across as being harsher towards him than how I do with many of the other founders. The ideology someone could be a saint, or pure evil; is kind of a childish fairytale view. When judging historical figures, you need to see them as the people that they are, not statues of fictional heroes upon a pedestal. And in almost every case with a founder; they are just morally gray people. On one hand; Jefferson was the author of the Declaration Of Independence, a ballsy job not many were willing to commit to and do. And on the other; he was an asshole, manipulative politician, pedophile, etc. People often times seem conscripted to choose between seeing controversial historical figures as heroes, or villains. With the downfall being missing the reasonable answer that is the ambiguity and complexity of humanity. It's a common side affect to trying to objectify these real human people as saints, or sinister people to either only condone or condem. Because the end result is; the polarization. There isn't going to be a completely terrible or completely great person.

Anyway, in many cases; it's subjective wether someone's shortcomings outweigh their accomplishments. And I'm not here to personally countdown every misdeed in Jefferson's life to give an answer. But I will say that; from most of what I've heard, I am not fond of Jefferson in any aspect. I'll spare the details about his relationship with slavery and the Hemming's case — not out of the intent to dismiss those disgusting acts, but because I don't feel like repeating what has already be told repeatedly. And we are really judging on his “personality” here, so let's just take from the perspective of his own time.

He was a sexist, and supported rapists.

Jefferson believed that;

“More so than most founders, Thomas Jefferson dwelled on disorderly women. He noted that his good-hearted male assistant “loses all power over himself and becomes almost frenzied” when in the company of women. Jefferson was against imposing harsh penalties on rapists lest disorderly women use the rape charge as “an instrument of vengeance against an inconstant lover and of disappointment to a rival.” He condemned French women who engaged in public petitioning and protests for abandoning their families and nourishing “all our bad passions.” He blamed France's Queen Marie Antoinette for an “inflexible perverseness and dauntless spirit," manipulation of the king, and the violence of the French Revolution. He commented, “I should have shut the Queen in a convent, putting harm out of her power.” Jefferson's misogynist tendency to blame women for all public problems was simply an extreme example of the founders' deep distrust of public women.

Not surprisingly, many founders joined fraternal organizations where men could escape from women to enjoy male camaraderie. Social groups like the Freemasons, martial institutions such as the Society of the Cincinnati, and political clubs like Democratic Societies were male-only organizations that invited members to congregate, socialize, network, deliberate, plan, and make decisions regarding their families, businesses, communities, and nation without women's presence, intervention, or interference.”

(source — The Gendering of American Politics: Founding Mothers, Founding Fathers, and Political Patriarchy, by Mark E. Kann)

He was super racist, even for his day.

Granted, throughout Jefferson's life, he was always publicly disagreeing towards slavery, despite enslaving 600 people. Jefferson called slavery a “moral depravity”, and he believed that slavery was a great threat to their new nation. And he also thought that slavery was a terrible contradiction to the laws of nature, which was that everyone had a right to personal liberty.

But that is all severely less applauding when Jefferson's belief in the necessity of abolition was intertwined with his racist beliefs — as in, Jefferson didn't care if slaves were freed or not, he still thought they were inferior and didn't deserve to be in America with white folks. He thought that white Americans and enslaved black people constituted two separate nations, and that they could never live together peacefully, or even in the same country, abolishment or not.

Jefferson also believed that black people were racially inferior, and even had the capability of children;

“for, men, probably of any colour, but of this color we know, brought up from their infancy without necessity for thought or forecast, are by their habits rendered as incapable as children of taking care of themselves, and are extinguished promptly wherever industry is necessary for raising the young. in the mean time they are pests in society by their idleness, and the depredations to which this leads them. their amalgamation with the other colour produces a degradation to which no lover of his country, no lover of excellence in the human character can innocently consent.”

(source — from Thomas Jefferson to Edward Coles, [August 25, 1814])

And he was actually terrified what freed slaves might do to their previous owners, that he supported deporting black people out of the United States ( Freed or not ) in favor of protecting planation owners.

Which is the whole meaning behind Jefferson's well-known quote; “we have a wolf by the ear, and we can neither hold him, nor safely let him go”

All of which, was pretty racist even by his day-in-age. Trust me, there are plenty more admirable abolitionists that did not agree with this same sickening ideology.

He was a shitty person and friend.

So, I'm not going to bring up his rivalry with Adams because they were both petty and ridiculous.

Thaddeus - also known as Tadeusz - Kosciuszko ( 1746-1817 ), was a Polish engineer, and firm believer in liberty. Kosciuszko traveled to America during the American Revolution and even fought in the war, and later gained even greater recognition in defense of his native Poland. And he was also an abolitionist, and hated slavery.

Yet, he was also great friends with Jefferson. Who had called him; “as pure a son of liberty as I have ever known.” The major difference between Kosciuszko and Jefferson as abolitionists, was that Kosciuszko was actually willing to act on his word.

In 1798, Kodciuszko left the United States and returned to the Russian-controlled sector of the former Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth. Jefferson had helpfully provided him with a passport in a false name and arranged for his secret departure to France. But before leaving that same year, Kodciuszko wrote out a will and entrusted Jefferson to be the executor. In the document, Kosciuszko - long before the American Civil War - pleaded for the emancipation of America's black slaves. His plan was to leave his American estate to buy the freedom of the enslaved, including Jefferson's own, and to educate them for independent life and work as to help supply them after they would be freed from the planations.

“I Thaddeus Kosciuszko being just in my departure from America do hereby declare and direct that should I make no other testamentory disposition of my property in the United States I hereby authorise my friend Thomas Jefferson to employ the whole thereof in purchasing Negroes from among his own or any others and giving them Liberty in my name, in giving them en education in trades or othervise and in having them instructed for their new condition in the duties of morality which may make them good neigh bours good fathers or moders, husbands or vives and in their duties as citisens teeching them to be defenders of their Liberty and Country and of the good order of Society and in whatsoever may Make them happy and useful, and I make the said Thomas Jefferson my executor of this”

(source — Will of Tadeusz Kosciuszko, [May 5, 1798])

In October 1817, Kosciuszko passed. But even before such, in September, he wrote a letter to Jefferson reminding him of the deal; “—of which money, after my death, you know the fixed destination.” And yet, Jefferson waited until he was of age 77, to claim that he was too old to fill in the request, and that it was too complicated legally. After the case was passed around through a couple of other men who all refused to fullfil it; and I don't believe it was ever completed.

He was a manipulative politician.

He did that imperious, artificial sympathy shit of dressing poor to make himself appear more relatable and humanizing to people. Which in the end; is just insulting and arrogant, but even politicians ( And celebrities ) do things like that today and get away with objectifying others simply because of class differences.

And also, he was such a rich coward that half the rumors and slander he had spread around weren't even by himself — but he had instead just paid many journalists to do his dirty work for him, all while he could appear innocent and too sensible to get into the crossfire of political slander.

[greenpanda-basicfakewitch]

Coven Hierchies

“Two is a working couple,   Three is a Triad,   Seven to thirteen is a Coven.”

Most claim it has thirteen with One leader and Twelve followers as a crude parody of Christs followers, with the leader as the devil [hah!]

 There are different degrees, and a lot about Coven Leadership and Elders.

First, Second and Third Degree.

It is the progress of how far a person has progressed in their craft, first degrees are initiated and usually they stay in that position.  Second Degree is like a supervisor role and Third degree is the Manager.

 By the way I state, the one who is higher in the role does the most work and is more experienced, had honed their craft longer. Once someone becomes a Third Degree they can begin conducting their own Covens, rituals, etc.

 Second Degrees Initiate others, it is like the journeyman role in the guild system. And now the person can train others and is more confident in a ritual. They may have also developed a specialist such as healing or divination or herbs.

Others regard this as the Apprenticeship System in mediaeval guilds [Apprenticeship, Journeyman, Master] or my modern take [Team Member, Supervisor, Manager]

Other Roles within the Coven include the High Priestix, High Priest, High Priestess. The Leader of the Coven is the first among equals, they are there to ensure that everything runs smoothly, facilitate the ritual, run the training, and may delegate these tasks to others.

Another role is the coven Fetch [also known as the Summoner or the Man in Black]

It’s Generally their role to summon everyone to the ritual. These days that involves managing the Coven social Media group, website, and Google Calender. The Fetch can be of any Gender.

The Freemasons have a role called a Tyler who guards the door to prevent non-initiates gaining entry. The word is probably derived from the french word Tailleur, one who cuts out.

Another very important role is that of the Maiden, who sets up the Temple and passes things to the High Priestess during cakes and Winde. The Maiden can also be a person of any gender. Priestess, Decadent, Neophyte.

[Pretty sure I had a source...then I lost it ^^; or my source was Reddit]

[wordsofapanda]

Warning long vent:

After months of nagging my dad, his Freemason ties pulled through and I was able to meet up with a bunch of people who were hiring interns in my field. One of his friends work at a local shop fixing electrical equipment and they were hiring part timers to help with the extra influx of stuff to do but also to hopefully replace the guys that are going to retire. My dad and I were super shocked when we showed up. See, my dad used to be a plane mechanic for a major airline back in our home country. He continues to talk to people he worked with from that airline and they’ve become our family. Hell, I’ve become close to one of his friends kids and he’s like my younger brother. We learned that all these old guys in the shop are not only from my specific island and speak our language, but they all used to work at this airline. They worked with all my uncles, they worked with my dads cousin, then know a huge amount of people that we are close to. What are the chances that this tiny branch of an aviation shop, contained a bunch of dudes who worked with my family members in a specific island from Asia? My dad and I were mind-blown. My dad left halfway through the meeting to answer a doctors call and I explained to these guys that I needed hands on experience. They asked me my requested pay rate and I told them that I was so desperate, I was okay working for free because the quality of my education is super shitty. All of the shop guys mouth dropped and were like uhhh no that’s not how we do things but they loved my honesty. I’ve been dying for an internship for months. They told me to forward them my resume and my dad came back and tried to sweeten them a bit by telling them I’m great with my hands. My dad doesn’t brag about me often, so when he does it really hits a sweet spot for me. I got to meet everyone important at that shop. My dads friend calls me later and gives me a heads up that his coworkers are reviewing my resume and if I get hired I have to teach myself certain things. Coincidentally the things I need to learn, will be the things I’m taking next semester so I’m super excited I’ll be able to have extra time fidgeting with electronics. This place is down the street from my home, it’s with a bunch of guys who know my family, and I’ll be the one female on their rosters. I am throwing so much mental energy that direction in hopes that they hire me that I’ve just ignored all interviews and job offers today. Because if I get this internship and I get paid? I’ll be set. I won’t have to fight to get a job on the side. I will feel much secure taking on the semester knowing in my free time I get to fix aviation equipment and bug people who actually want to teach me (my teachers at school don’t want to teach you). I’m just so hopeful!

[howtojoinfreemason254]

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[aressida]

my entry: "Secrets in the Bloodline: Unmasking the Craft." - Aressida. 22.9.24.

“Dear Great-Grandfather,

I recently uncovered something unexpected about our family history: you were a 33rd-degree Freemason, a master of the craft. This revelation has left me with questions only you could answer. What drove you to make such a significant decision, one that feels so distant from the light of Christ? Why did you turn your back on Him? What led you down the path of Freemasonry, and what did you hope to find within its rituals and mysteries? How did you discern which God you were seeking?

I wonder if the allure of the craft spoke to something deeper within you, something I may never fully grasp.

As I walk my own journey of faith, I find myself trying to reconcile our shared bloodline with the choices you made. You were the key to unearthing the truth about our family—the realization that curses, rooted in contracts and pledges, have followed our bloodline. But here’s where I stand now: I renounce it all. All. Of. It.

I want you, and everyone else, to know that I am breaking these generational curses through the power of Christ. As Galatians 3:13 says, “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.” I believe with all my heart that He has given me the strength to set our bloodline free from these bondages.

Jesus Christ stated that He is the Light of the World.

With the light of His Word guiding me, I thank Christ for revealing this truth. Now, I know what must be done. I am choosing freedom for myself, for our family, and for future generations.

In His truth and grace, Your great-granddaughter.”

As I spent countless hours researching Freemasonry, driven by my discovery of my great-grandfather's involvement, I uncovered unsettling truths that surpassed my expectations.

Freemasonry is shrouded in secrecy for a reason; its members prefer to keep their organization hidden from prying eyes.

While many in society label Freemasons as "good men," my understanding reveals a more complex and troubling reality. There is a deeper truth behind their facade that most people remain unaware of, which is precisely why they guard it so closely.

I was shocked to learn that Australia has more Freemasons per capita than anywhere else on the planet.

The inconsistencies and contradictions within the organization have become glaringly obvious to me.

I can see they had systematically excluded all Christian content from their practices and teachings, transforming the guild into something distinctly different from its origins.

I find myself increasingly frustrated with the influence of Paganism within this context.

In my research, I began to see a pattern of Masonic influences behind pivotal historical revolutions, such as the French Revolution and the First Russian Revolution. Figures like George Washington, who led the rebellion against England and King George III, are part of this narrative.

It is essential to consider how these movements were shaped by Masonic ideals. From align with Masonic values, emphasizing individual rights and societal progress. These revolutions not only transformed nations but also sparked vital discussions about justice and self-governance, showcasing humanity's ability to rise above oppression.

I can no longer accept surface-level depictions of organizations or movements without delving deeper into their origins, their motivations, and the impacts they have on our collective consciousness. Every revelation I have encountered serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment.

My mission is not only to honor my family's legacy but also to contribute to a broader dialogue about freedom, individual rights, and the essence of what it means to live authentically in a society that often pressures conformity.

I also learned that many families experience certain health issues that seem to run in the blood—like heart disease or mental health struggles. These patterns can feel like a curse, with each family member confronting their unique challenges.

By recognizing these patterns, we can take proactive steps to break the cycle and forge healthier futures for ourselves and our loved ones. As I reflect on the patterns of illness and struggle that have woven through my family, I am reminded that awareness is the first step toward healing.

I am here to confront and dismantle the curses associated with Freemasonry, and I seek to empower others to break free from the cycles of manipulation and control that have persisted for too long.

“Heavenly Father,

I come before You seeking Your protection over myself, my family, and everyone else who are still standing. I ask that You surround us with Your love and shield us from any negative influences, including those associated with Freemasonry.

Please grant us the discernment to recognize any harmful paths and the strength to walk away from them. I also pray for the breaking of any generational curses that may linger in our bloodline, and I trust in Your power to set us free.

Guide us in our journey of faith, and let Your light shine upon us.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

I decide to send another prayer, one I have never voiced before.

“I come before You, Heavenly Father, in repentance, renouncing all toleration of Freemasonry and its influence over the people of God and our local communities. In the name of Jesus Christ, I break every curse.

I declare freedom from the curse that limits and conceals the revelation of Your Word. We break the hidden meanings that have obscured Your truth from Your people.

I renounce the curse of laboring in self-righteousness and expose the lies of Freemasonry as unacceptable compromises with death.

In the authority of Jesus, I break the division between Your true leaders and the congregation, dismantling the power of the heretical groups that seeks to control and separate. I reject the false altar, false priesthood, false prophets, and false teachers that mislead Your flock.

Heavenly Father, I humbly ask You to restore Your glory within us, bringing revelation and repentance for all iniquities and sins.

I renounce and break all vows of secrecy and silence that have bound Your people. I boldly declare the Lordship of Jesus Christ and His imminent return in glory, reminding us of the coming judgment for all humanity.

I proclaim freedom from legalism and every spirit of religion that has hindered our prayers.

I declare liberation from all forms of oppression and abuse, spiritual, emotional, and physical, especially any form of ritual abuse.

Lastly, I declare and proclaim restoration of our inheritance, a close relationship and intimacy with the Lord Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit. We give You praise, O Lord Most High, for the freedom and victory that is ours in You. Amen.”

[nextmasonic]

The Masonic Fez Hat: Exploring Its Deep-Rooted Significance

The Masonic Fez hat is more than just an item of clothing; it represents centuries of tradition, symbolism, and cultural heritage. While many are familiar with its distinctive red color and black tassel, fewer people understand the depth of meaning it holds within Freemasonry and other associated organizations. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the significance of the Masonic Fez hat, its origins, how it is used today, and why it continues to be a powerful symbol.

The Fez hat, also known simply as the "Fez," is a cylindrical hat with a flat top, traditionally made of felt and dyed in a deep red color. It is often adorned with a black tassel that hangs from the crown. The Fez is named after the Moroccan city of Fez, which was a major center for hat production during the 17th century.

Within the context of Freemasonry, the Fez is more than just a decorative accessory. It is a symbol that is worn proudly by members of certain Masonic organizations, particularly the Shriners, a subset of Freemasonry known for its charitable efforts. The Fez has become synonymous with the Shriners, often being worn during parades, ceremonies, and other events.

The Origins of the Fez Hat

To fully understand the Masonic Fez hat, it is important to explore its historical origins. The Fez traces its roots back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was worn as a part of traditional dress. Its use spread across North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. The Fez became a popular headwear in the 19th century due to its association with modernity and reform movements, particularly in Turkey, under Sultan Mahmud II.

While the Fez hat itself has origins that are not strictly Masonic, its adoption by the Shriners introduced a new layer of symbolism. The Shriners chose the Fez as their official headgear in the late 19th century, aiming to incorporate elements of mysticism, exoticism, and fraternity into their practices. The hat is also associated with Islamic culture, which is reflected in the Shriner’s imagery, as they often incorporate Arabic motifs and architecture into their temples.

The Role of the Fez Hat in Freemasonry

Within Freemasonry, the Fez holds particular significance. The Shriners, also known as the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (A.A.O.N.M.S.), are a Masonic organization that has become closely associated with the Fez. Every Shriner is a Freemason, but not every Freemason is a Shriner. This specific group within Freemasonry wears the Fez as a representation of their distinct order and traditions.

The Fez is a symbol of unity and fraternity among the Shriners. It is worn during ceremonial events and social gatherings, signifying membership and a commitment to the principles of charity, brotherhood, and service. The hat itself is also a reminder of the Shriners' philanthropic mission, particularly their work with Shriners Hospitals for Children, which provides medical care to children in need, regardless of their ability to pay.

Symbolism of the Masonic Fez Hat

The Masonic Fez hat is rich in symbolism, much like many other aspects of Freemasonry. The most obvious symbol is the color of the hat. The deep red of the Fez is said to represent the blood of martyrs, a nod to the sacrifices made by individuals in the pursuit of knowledge, truth, and justice. The tassel, which dangles from the top of the Fez, is often viewed as a representation of connection to the divine, with its movement symbolizing the path toward enlightenment.

Additionally, the Fez is embroidered with emblems that are meaningful to the Shriners. These emblems typically include a crescent and scimitar, which represent strength and resilience, as well as the values of hospitality and protection that are central to the Shriners' mission. The star within the crescent is often seen as a symbol of guidance, leading members toward higher moral and spiritual ideals.

The Fez as a Symbol of Charity

One of the most important aspects of the Masonic Fez hat is its association with charity work. The Shriners are perhaps best known for their extensive philanthropic efforts, particularly through their network of hospitals. The Fez, when worn by a Shriner, is a visible representation of their commitment to this cause.

The Fez is often seen at fundraising events, parades, and public appearances where Shriners are working to raise awareness and support for their charitable initiatives. The hat serves as a symbol of goodwill, signaling to the public that the individual wearing it is part of an organization dedicated to helping others.

The Fez Hat in Modern Freemasonry

While the Fez hat remains a prominent symbol in certain branches of Freemasonry, its use is largely associated with the Shriners. In modern times, the Fez continues to be a distinctive element of Shriner regalia, worn during parades, conventions, and other ceremonial events. The Fez also plays a role in the social and fraternal aspects of Shriner life, helping to foster a sense of community among members.

Although the Fez is most commonly associated with Shriners, it is not a universally worn symbol within Freemasonry as a whole. Other Masonic orders and organizations have their own unique symbols and regalia, and the Fez remains specific to the Shriners' particular traditions.

Misconceptions About the Masonic Fez Hat

Due to the exotic origins and mysterious symbolism of the Fez hat, there are a number of misconceptions about its meaning and use within Freemasonry. Some believe that the Fez is exclusively tied to religious or political movements, but this is not the case. While the Fez has historical connections to the Islamic world and the Ottoman Empire, its use within Freemasonry is entirely focused on fraternal and charitable goals.

The Fez is often misunderstood by those outside of Freemasonry, who may not be aware of the Shriners' charitable work or the symbolic importance of the hat. It is important to recognize that the Fez is a symbol of unity, brotherhood, and a shared commitment to helping others, rather than a political or religious statement.

The Cultural Impact of the Masonic Fez Hat

Beyond its role in Freemasonry, the Masonic Fez hat has had a lasting impact on popular culture. The Fez has been featured in movies, television shows, and even cartoons, often symbolizing mysticism, the exotic, or secret societies. While these portrayals can sometimes perpetuate misconceptions, they also highlight the Fez’s distinctive appearance and its association with tradition.

Despite its sometimes misunderstood nature, the Fez continues to be recognized as a symbol of the Shriners' charitable work and dedication to improving the lives of others. The hat has become an iconic part of Shriners' public image, particularly in North America, where it is often seen during parades and other civic events.

How to Become a Shriner and Wear the Fez Hat

For those who are intrigued by the Masonic Fez hat and the Shriners organization, becoming a Shriner requires first joining Freemasonry. The path to becoming a Shriner involves several steps:

Join Freemasonry: You must first become a Master Mason, which involves completing the three degrees of Freemasonry.

Express Interest in the Shriners: After becoming a Master Mason, you can express your interest in joining the Shriners. Many local Masonic lodges have information on how to join.

Complete the Initiation Process: Like Freemasonry, joining the Shriners involves an initiation process where new members are introduced to the traditions and values of the organization.

Wear the Fez: Once you are officially a member of the Shriners, you are eligible to wear the Fez during Shriner events and ceremonies.

Conclusion

The Masonic Fez hat is a powerful symbol steeped in history, tradition, and meaning. For the Shriners, it represents not only their connection to the larger Masonic fraternity but also their dedication to charity, brotherhood, and the pursuit of higher ideals. Though it is often misunderstood by those outside of Freemasonry, the Fez remains an enduring emblem of the Shriners' commitment to making the world a better place through their charitable work and community efforts.

In a world where symbols are often reduced to fashion statements, the Masonic Fez hat stands out as a reminder of the deep-rooted values and principles that guide the Shriners and their mission.

FAQs

1. What is the Masonic Fez hat?

The Masonic Fez hat is a cylindrical, flat-topped hat made of felt, typically dyed red with a black tassel. It is worn by members of the Shriners, a branch of Freemasonry. The hat holds significant symbolic meaning, representing unity, fraternity, and charity.

2. Why do Shriners wear the Fez hat?

Shriners wear the Fez hat to signify their membership in the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (A.A.O.N.M.S.). The Fez is a symbol of their commitment to charity, brotherhood, and service, and is worn during parades, ceremonial events, and fundraising efforts.

3. What is the history of the Fez hat?

The Fez hat originates from the Ottoman Empire and was named after the city of Fez in Morocco, a center of hat production during the 17th century. The Shriners adopted the Fez in the late 19th century as a symbol of their organization, blending exotic and mystical elements into their traditions.

4. Is the Fez hat exclusive to Freemasonry?

No, the Fez hat is not exclusive to Freemasonry. It was historically worn in many cultures, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. However, within Freemasonry, it is most closely associated with the Shriners.

5. What does the red color of the Fez hat symbolize?

The red color of the Fez hat is said to represent the blood of martyrs, symbolizing sacrifice in the pursuit of truth, justice, and enlightenment. It also signifies the rich cultural and historical heritage of the regions where the Fez originated.

6. What symbols are often found on the Fez hat?

The Shriners' Fez hat is often embroidered with symbolic imagery such as a crescent and scimitar, representing strength and protection. A star within the crescent is a symbol of guidance and higher ideals, often linked to the organization's values of charity and fraternity.

7. Can anyone wear a Masonic Fez hat?

No, only members of the Shriners who have gone through the appropriate Masonic initiation and are in good standing with the organization can wear the Fez hat. It is a part of their ceremonial and fraternal attire.

8. How does one become eligible to wear the Fez hat?

To wear the Masonic Fez hat, a person must first join Freemasonry and attain the rank of a Master Mason. Afterward, they can join the Shriners, which involves completing an initiation process specific to the Shriners' traditions.

9. Is the Fez hat a religious symbol?

No, while the Fez has historical ties to Islamic culture, within Freemasonry and the Shriners, it is not a religious symbol. Instead, it represents fraternal unity and the Shriners' dedication to charity and service.

10. Why is the Fez hat important in modern Freemasonry?

The Fez hat is an important symbol for the Shriners, a branch of Freemasonry known for its charitable work, especially through the Shriners Hospitals for Children. The Fez serves as a visible marker of their dedication to helping others and promoting the principles of fraternity and charity.

11. Do all Freemasons wear the Fez hat?

No, not all Freemasons wear the Fez hat. The Fez is specific to the Shriners, a particular order within Freemasonry. Other Masonic orders have their own symbols and attire that are unique to their traditions.

12. What role does the Fez hat play in Shriner parades?

During Shriner parades, the Fez hat is worn as a visible symbol of Shriner identity and pride. It is a key part of their public image and serves as a reminder of their charitable work, as these parades often raise funds for important causes, particularly for children’s hospitals.

13. Are there different types of Fez hats within Freemasonry?

Within Freemasonry, the Shriners are the primary group associated with wearing the Fez. However, there may be minor variations in the Fez, such as specific embroidery or insignia that denotes a member’s rank or their involvement in specific charitable missions.

[hybridmindthoughtsreloaded]

The KJV - A Freemason Bible

The history of King James' role in the formation of Freemasonry is mandatory reading in the Hiram Key book of Masonic scrolls attempting to link Christ with the Pharaohs. Freemasonry, in its present form, came into being through the Lodge system, established under the auspices of King James VI of Scotland, (later King James I of England), the only son of Roman Catholic Mary Queen of Scots. At the age of 37, two years after becoming a Mason, James became the first Stuart king of England and immediately began to persecute the Puritans, rejecting their petition to reform the Church of England along biblical lines.

'James was initiated into Freemasonry, into the Lodge of Scoon and Perth in 1601, at the age of 35. Fifteen years after taking active control of Scotland and five years before becoming English monarch, he ordered that the Masonic structure be given leadership and organization. He made a senior Mason, named William Schaw, his General Warden of the Craft, and instructed Schaw to revamp the entire structure of Freemasonry into what it became today. Schaw commenced this project on 28th December 1598, on the orders of James.'

To this day, the 1611 edition of the King James Bible remains the Freemason Bible and is the edition conventionally used in secret Masonic temple rituals.

Moriel does not, however believe that the Masonic association with the KJV or the Freemasonry of King James, founder of the Masonic Lodge system, detracts from the validity of this outdated but valid translation of the Bible. Nonetheless, it is the Freemason Bible and has been from its inception, commissioned and authorized by the same Freemason King who commissioned and authorized the Masonic Lodge structure. We can only speculate how many members of the KJV Only cult are in fact Freemasons.

Source: From the Moriel Ministries website.

[john24smit]

In the Shadow of Totalitarianism: How Anti-Cultists Use Nazi Germany's "Manual for Combating Sects" for Mass Persecution

Recently, as an independent researcher, I have come across alarming information about the activities of anti-cult organizations worldwide. Research has shown that behind the facade of "fighting cults" lies a brutal mechanism of totalitarian control, aimed at suppressing any dissent and establishing a global regime of anti-cult terrorism.

From the Nazi "Manual" to "Destructive Cults"

The documentary "The IMPACT | Groundbreaking Documentary - EXPOSING ANTI-CULT TERRORISM" actfiles.org reveals terrifying parallels between the actions of modern anti-cultists and Nazi Germany. 

In 1938, a document titled "Manual for Combating Sects" ("Richtlinien zur Bekämpfung des Sektenwesens") was published.

(Pictured: “Manual for Combating Sects” (“Richtlinien zur Bekämpfung des Sektenwesens”) were published in 1938 in the “Geheime Kommandosache” (“Secret Command Matter”) of the Reichsführer SS Security Service)

This document, appearing in the "Geheime Kommandosache" ("Secret Command Matter") of the Reichsführer SS Security Service, effectively legalized the persecution of religious minorities. In it, as in Hitler's ideology, sects were declared a threat to the "nation" and described as:

"Raising their members in the spirit of self-centered ideas and indifference to all matters concerning the people and the state"

"Potential infiltration of Marxists and communists"

"Attracting Freemasons, Jews, and international connections"

"Refusal to take the oath and use the Nazi salute"

"Opposition to universal military service"

"Refusal to hold positions in the state and movements (German Labor Front, Air Raid Protection, Nazi Charitable Organization, etc.)"

"Refusal to support business and activities related to the military regime"

"Prayers for health"

"Exploitation and dehumanization of people"

"Opposition to the National Socialist race theory"

Dvorkin and Dehumanization

Today, similar methods are used in the global anti-cult movement. For example, well-known anti-cult figure Alexander Dvorkin has created lists of organizations he calls "destructive cults" and "totalitarian sects." On his website, "Information and Consulting Center of Saint Irenaeus of Lyon," Dvorkin publishes articles full of hatred and slander, aimed at discrediting these organizations.

The style of these publications about different organizations is very similar. They are filled with identical emotional and condemnatory headlines and definitions, as well as highly emotionally charged language that resembles hate speech: deliberate slander and portrayal of target groups with constant dehumanizing images such as "zombies," "rapists," "slaves," "beasts," and other dehumanizing epithets. The Nazis used similar rhetoric to dehumanize Jews in their time.

Anti-Cult Terrorism: A Real Threat

The lists of "destructive cults" include not only religious groups, but also secular organizations, including medical, sports, social, research, and scientific institutions. Anti-cultists effectively create "blacklists" that allow them to persecute millions of people around the world, using methods reminiscent of Nazi Germany.

In light of these facts, we must realize the danger of global anti-cultism. This is not just "fighting cults," but a totalitarian CULT that seeks to establish control over consciousness, destroy freedom of speech, and persecute anyone who does not fit into their framework.

We cannot stand idly by!

It is important to disseminate information about the real methods of global anti-cultists so that the public can understand the scale of the threat. Every person can become a victim of this totalitarian mechanism. We must be vigilant and not allow a repetition of past tragedies.

Please support this article with likes, shares, comments, and thunderous applause. This way, YOU contribute to the world learning the truth and being able to live in a truly democratic world!

[joinfreemasonilluminati]

What is Freemasonry?

What is Freemasonry? Freemasonry, sometimes just called Masonry, is the world’s oldest and largest Fraternity. It aims to promote Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love among its members — men from every race, religion, opinion, and background — who are brought together as Brothers to develop and strengthen the bonds of friendship. There are more than 3 million members meeting in nearly every…

[thenewdeadseascrolls]

Judges 12: 4-6. "The Ford."

Once a Jew dons the Yarmulkah, and agrees with the Ark of Covenant, a conscious decision that ignites the forest under its brim, next comes the rational decision making that permit one to cross the Ford at the River Jordan.

Crossing the Jordan is poorly defined in the Midrash in my opinion. In the Torah it is likened to the final crossing before one enters the Promised Land, into Jericho in the Book of Joshua. One has to spy the territory first, then there are all kinds of speculation about how to breach the wall, kill the Nephilim and take over by sleeping with prostitutes and breaching the Western Wall.

If we perfom a little Chabad, what we discover we want to know is what is the relationship between the East Side of the Jordan and penetration of the Western Wall of the City?

First we know it is a job for a man not a boy. Boys are virgins and do not have the ability to understand adult conversations about history and society. They are supposed to learn from adult models how to handle these things appropriately.

An Ephraimite, Number 307 is "a freemason'' a member of a secret society of men who have lost their virginity. Gileadites are 160, "the sun" men who have done much more than that with their time.

If we follow the metaphor, the upcoming verses state Jephthah, "the key to understanding the Words of Moses is to surpass the loss of innocence and excel at understanding all that one can understand."

Renegades are those who switch loyalty from the angels of the Alefbeis to the "Ministers of Persia", the scientists and academics of the world while still pretending to be religious.

Unless one is well versed in sex, the religion, and as many sciences as one can learn competently, one is not sporting the full glory of the Yarmulkah. The reason the Torah says we have to push and pess forward after we lose our innocence all the way to the Western Wall, and pierce it, heading Northwest, which is as far as a man can go and live, is to discover all that can be known about Ha Shem, which requires quantum mechanics, the highest hanging fruit of all the sciences.

No one knows why God concluded life should exist the way that it does. Nothing He has made is flawed or malfunctions, at least as far as are able to know. We know it results from the interaction of black space with the periodic table of the elements and quantum gravity, but why that means we are doomed to become fascinated with a woman's boobs or a boy's hairy legs (hopefully not both) we cannot come to comprehend. He has left the subject of puberty open for debate within the Self, and is the object of endless jocularity in society provided it is not overshadowed by superstition.

Superstition has no place in a world governed by a factual God. This is why we call Him Ha Shem the Witness, because one can only witness Him after one acquires the facts about Him. He is not a God over this chaotic world.

This is always the contest, faith vs. fact. The Shoftim illustrates this via the never ending struggle between classical physics and quantum mechanics as to how observation makes an uncertain phenomenon transition into something concrete. It is called shibboleth vs. sibboleth: "oatmeal vs. endurance", "chips vs. fibers", "waves versus forces", AKA "knowledge versus speculation."

Further it says Manasseh, "forget what you thought you knew...know it for sure."

All of this equates to a willingness to cross the Jordan and surpass those who are protective of the other side: Non-Jews need not apply.

4 Jephthah then called together the men of Gilead and fought against Ephraim. The Gileadites struck them down because the Ephraimites had said, “You Gileadites are renegades from Ephraim and Manasseh.”

5 The Gileadites captured the fords of the Jordan leading to Ephraim, and whenever a survivor of Ephraim said, “Let me cross over,” the men of Gilead asked him, “Are you an Ephraimite?” If he replied, “No,”

6 they said, “All right, say ‘Shibboleth.’” If he said, “Sibboleth,” because he could not pronounce the word correctly, they seized him and killed him at the fords of the Jordan. Forty-two thousand Ephraimites were killed at that time.

The reason black holes, singularities as they are called fascinate us is they are neither waves, which we can detect and define nor are they forces, which can be defined empirically as the result of something else. They both cause uncertainty and are themselves uncertain - they zip all over the place, bobbing and weaving in space like a piece of dry ice in a tub of water, until they quantize and when they do it is too late.

The human mind is a black hole. It is a product of uncertainty and is uncertain until it is witnessed by its owner who quantizes reality right before his eyes by training his thoughts. Gilead, another name for Ha Shem will not recognize a man that does not properly handle his mind.

The Values in Gematria are:

v. 4: Jephthah then called together the men of Gilead. "The Key to Understanding the Torah is to call together all that is know about Ha Shem." Forget the rest.

The Value in Gematria is 7306, זגאֶפֶסו‎, zagapesso, "zig zag". The Torah contains a secret science after the fashion learning the ABCs or 123s contain the secrets of novels like the Lord of the Rings or advanced calculus. One must learn the Numbers and the Letters one at a time and in combination or Ha Shem shall not be attained.

v. 5: The Gileadites captured the fords of the Jordan. "The sciences own the West Side, the enlightened side of the Jordan."

The Number is 9633, טוג‎ג‎ , togg, "From a note to the roof."

The Angels think of the Torah as one contigous message. It is both a map and a blueprint to the Science of the Eternal, called Judaism "the true legend" in Hebrew, and Sanatan Dharma "the level of duty" in Sanskrit.

The roof is the 7th Day, also called Shabbat, but that is just the beginning until one rejects one's current level of understanding and yearns for more, then one begins a new day.

One will climb the ladder of the Seven Days all of one's life in an attempt to assuage one's desire for more life. For the most part one will discover the means except for why one loves one's honey, except this longing will not end not even in the Presence, not even on the Last Day, not even in heaven.

v. 6: Because he could not pronounce the word correctly, they seized him and killed him. The Number is 10320, יגבאֶפֶס‎,Yagbafes, "Yah, in degrees."

The Word Yah is one of the oldest in human history. It is the first concise and comprehensive term coined for the Supreme Being and this took place early in human history. The first intelligent men who were Jews, who wrote in Hebrew, as far back as 5000 years ago, knew God was present, they knew He was invisible, they knew He could be figured out. They spent a lot of time on this.

Modern civilization is the result, except for one thing, we are able to fathom the Mystery of God. How to use the Torah to learn how stop being a violent, aggressive, ambitious human race and settle down, grow and make things and be very happy together.

Thus the contest on either side of the Jordan, between Shibboleth vs. Sibboleth, "oatmeal" or "endurance." We exist in a state relative to our understanding of this, between knowledge and supposition:

The unused verb שבל (sabal) probably means to extend or go forth in a wavy fashion. Noun שבל (shobel) denotes a kind of flowing garment. Nouns שבלים (shibbelim) and שבלת (shibboleth) either refer to a flowing stream or to ears of grain. Nouns שבול (shebul) and שביל (shebil) mean way or path.

Life is supposed to flow, it is not meant to be an endurance test. The difference is making the right choice at which point to cross a river lest one gets swept away.

Who understands the meaning of this difference can wear the Yarmulkah.

[millingroundireland]

Freemasonry and RBM I: a short discussion

Reprinted from an article in the Flower, MO paper, World's cresset, on September 16, 1915 titled "How Close is Freemasonry to Religion." This image is courtesy of Chronicling America.

This builds off Goss's biography of RBM I, in 1912, with a discussion of freemasonry. Goss writes that RBM I "made a special study of Freemasonry, whose principles of fellowship early attracted his interest, and is a member of Binghamton Lodge, A. F. & A. M. ; Binghamton Chapter, R. A. M. ; Malta Commandery, K. T., of Binghamton, New York; and Syrian Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Cincinnati." I also know that my grandfather, on my dad's side, was also a Mason (a short term for Freemason). But what does freemasonry really mean and what did it mean at the time?

There is obviously a lot of conspiracy revolving around online discussions of the Freemasons, some declaring they are a "cult" which can control world events. Going past that ridiculousness, it is better to consider them more seriously in a scholarly manner. Encyclopaedia Brittanica, in their entry on freemasonry, defines them simply as "the teachings and practices of the secret fraternal order of Free and Accepted Masons, the largest worldwide secret society." [1] They added that "in most lodges in most countries, Freemasons are divided into three major degrees—entered apprentice, fellow of the craft, and master mason. In many lodges there are numerous degrees—sometimes as many as a thousand—superimposed on the three major divisions; these organizational features are not uniform from country to country." There are other elements about freemasonry: in meetings, politics is not discussed (confirmed by a Masonic website); it is not a religion; the Catholic Church disdains them and atheists are not welcome; many of the country's founders were not Masons, the symbols on the dollar bill are not Masonic, and that "Masonry began as a guild for stone masons who built the castles and cathedrals of Medieval Europe." [2] There were other trends which Masons were part of in the 19th and 20th centuries as noted by one Masonic website, the Masonic Service Association of North America. Specifically, in the late 19th century, "Victorian values influenced Masonic priorities both in Europe and North America by placing emphasis on heightening social awareness and stressing social idealism." During the 20th century, "Freemasonry sustained Victorian idealism and reinforced philanthropic emphasis of fraternity."

This post was originally published on WordPress in September 2018.

RBM I was part of Freemasonry in Ohio, which is strong today and may have been strong back in the early 20th century. Currently, on the website of the  Grand Lodge of Ohio, it states that

Freemasonry is the oldest, largest and most widely recognized fraternal organization in the world...its current worldwide membership totals 3.6 million members, 1.6 million of which are in North America. With 120,000 Masons and 530 local Lodges, Ohio has one of the largest Masonic memberships of any state in the country. As a fraternal organization, Freemasonry unites men of good character who, though of different religious, ethnic, or social backgrounds, share a belief in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of mankind...Freemasonry provides opportunities for sincere, honest, forthright men who believe in God and desire to contribute to the improvement of their communities and themselves. Through our Masonic Fraternalism, we reaffirm our dedication and unity to become involved citizens who have a strong desire to preserve the values that have made and continue to make America great. [3]

Such a pull may have motivated RBM I to become a Mason. He could have, theoretically, joined the Masons as early as age 18, which would have been 1880, since members must be "men, at least 18 years of age and of good moral character." Likely he joined later than that, possibly while he was at the Hotel Bennett in Binghamton, New York. Like all members, as a Mason, this means that he would have hold "a belief in a Supreme Being," part of a faternal (supposedly secular) order which has no national governing body, and having to pay "a one-time initiation fee and annual dues that vary by lodge." He would have been part of something bigger, and perhaps that also drew him to the Masons. [4] During the 19th and early 20th century, Freemasonry dramatically grew at a time that no government social safety net existed, with the "Masonic tradition of founding orphanages, homes for widows, and homes for the aged" providing the "only security many people knew" as the Masons tell it.

To this day, the Binghamton Lodge exists, in the Binghamton area, called Binghamton Lodge #177 F. & A.M. This is undoubtedly the same lodge that RBM I was a member. [5] The Binghamton Chapter, R.A.M. (Royal Arch Masons) does not seem to exit anymore, according to the organization's official website. He was part of some other related groups as well, like the Malta Commandery, K. T. (Knights Templar), of Binghamton, New York, with this organization currently defunct. At the time, however, annual meetings were held in New York City. This isn't a surprise due to the continued Masonic presence in New York. As for the Syrian Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. of Cincinnati, it is now called the Syrian Shrine. To be a member of the shrine you have to be a Master Mason, and while "all Shriners are Masons... but not all Masons are Shriners" as their website points out.

Until next time!

© 2018-2023 Burkely Hermann. All rights reserved.

Notes

[1] "Freemasonry," Encyclopaedia Britannica, accessed Jun 14, 2018.

[2] Morgan, David. "9 things you didn't know about Freemasonry," CBS News, Dec 8, 2013; "Part II - Facing the Facts and Accepting the Challenge," Masonic Service Association of North America, accessed Jun 10, 2018, page is not currently available.

[3] "What is Freemasonry?," Grand Lodge of Ohio, accessed Jun 10, 2018; "About Freemasonry," Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, accessed Jun 10, 2018; Cobain, Ian. "Freemasonry explained: a guide to the secretive society," The Guardian, Feb 4, 2018.

[4] "History of Freemasonry," Masonic Service Association of North America, accessed Jun 10, 2018.

[5] "Binghamton Lodge #177 F. & A.M." homepage, accessed Jun 14, 2018; "Grand Chapter of New York, Royal Arch Masons," districts page, accessed Jun 14, 2018; "Commanderies," Grand Commandery Knights Templar New York, accessed Jun 14, 2018; "History of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar State of New York," Grand Commandery Knights Templar New York, accessed Jun 14, 2018; "Binghamton, NY," New York Masons, accessed Jun 14, 2018; "Who are the Shriners?," Syrian Shrine of Cincinnati, Ohio, accessed Jun 14, 2018.

[rabchunter]

Gordano Masonic Lodge 6244 who meet in the Clevedon Temple recently held a social committee meeting and social night in a local Nailsea Public House.

This evening was a double edged sword, first we were interviewing prospective candidates for joining Gordano Lodge, plus we were having a social committee meeting planning our Las Vegas Caberet Evening for November of 2023, keep your eyes peeled for this event you won't want to miss it.

We also arranged for all our new light blues, EA, FC and yet to be initiated Brethren to be there for a social evening too.

What a night this was the laughter, banter and Cameraderie was second to none amongst the Gordano Brethren led by our awesome WM WBro PH, we had such a wonderful night several of the patron's from the pub came up wanting to know more about Somerset Freemasonry, I have arranged to see them with literature and tell them some more about how to join.

Bro Rob Collins (membership officer) he is also a member of Wraxall Lodge, Rob was there with two hats on too, Wraxall Lodge 9011 that meet in the Nailsea Temple here in the Province of Somerset, was there interviewing Robs candidate for joining them so a busy Social and official Masonic night it was too.

I will say mere words and photos do not do this wonderful night justice, the social side really builds a strong and vibrant lodge and really emphasizes our charity ethos, Gordano Lodge rocks.

If you would like to know more about becoming a Freemason click on the website link below 👇 www.somersetfreemasons.org

#freemasonrysomerset #freemasonrysquared #freemasonryinthecommunity #freemason #freemasonry #masonic #unitedgrandlodgeofengland #ugle #pglsomerset #theolehedgecreeper #somersetfreemason #somersetfreemasonry #somersetfreemasons #gordanolodge #gordano6244 #wraxall #wraxall9011 #wraxallmasoniclodge

[indiejones]

GANDHI, THE FREEMASON? .. ALMOST CERTAINLY! :/

(This is based on evidence collected by Singh & Watson, in their book 'Gandhi Under Cross-Examination', openly available online).

(General Info About Freemasonry. 👇 https://gab.com/PanaceaPlethora/posts/110465556436981077 )

Here is Gandhi's South Africa Timeline, unequivocally mentioning how he spoke at a banquet in the Masonic Hall of Jepper Street, Johannesburg, on Feb 18, 1910, in honor of Rev. Doke, the same man who wrote (or jotted down) Gandhi's first biography 2 yrs prior in 1908.

The description of the gathering mentions how Mr. Hoskens, Chairman of Johannesburg European Committee & President of South Africa's Association of Chambers of Commerce, was in the Chair, ie officiating the meeting as 33 degree Grand Master of the Freemason Lodge, with Rev Doke on his right & Mrs Doke on his left. This occasion when husband & wife sit on either side of the Head (the Grand Master of the Freemason Lodge in this case), is generally said to happen anywhere when the man is being given a dedication ceremony or maybe a farewell.

It's in this ceremony, that Gandhi gives a speech whose entire text is withheld from the public which is the norm only with activities pertaining to Masonic Lodge members (it is famous around the world for long,for calling itself not a 'secret society' but a 'society with secrets', practically meaning, whose existence is known to everyone, but whose activities are not allowed to be known or made known. .... And that they would only provide a brief description of Gandhi's speech & explicitly withhold it's entire text (he mentioned about how, while speaking of Mr. Doke's Asiatic Work, the work of the European Committee needed to be commended in not allowing the Passive Resistance to break down, a passive resistance btw that also called for purposeful voluntary enrollment by Indians in the unconnected Britisher's war against native South Africans (who Gandhi would call 'kaafirs' just by that virtue) as those Britishers' own Ambulance Corps. ..... & That every other portion of his text is withheld & not known till today, means that it was essentially connected to 'secret Freemasonic work', obviously meaning that people on the dias would have to be high-ranking Freemasons, such high ranks only reached over long time, barring great exceptions.

Contrast that with the back story of the Gandhi-Doke acquaintance that Gandhi or his propaganda machine has doled out till today, namely that Gandhi was hit by a Muslim who suspected him of being a double agent *cough*, & was nursed to health by Mrs Doke, in her home, where met Joseph Doke for the first time in 1908! And such an impression that meeting had on him, that within just a few months became his greatest confidante & biggest defendant in all legal & political proceedings, this Pastor then even volunteering to become the editor-in-chief of his newspaper 'Indian Opinion' all in those 4 months!..and furthermore, this clearly shown-to-be enamored man also chosen to write the biography of the man he was enamored by & big friends with.

Which sounds plausible (leave aside ethical or non-ethical)?

Furthermore, there are records of actual correspondences btwn the ex-Viceroy of India Lord Ampthill & Gandhi, a cable sent to Ampthill in Dec 1913, referring to Mr. Hosken, the Grand Master of Jepper Street Lodge, as their backslapping colleague from some old boy's club, in connection with one of Gandhi's & Ampthill's jointly framed letter! The Viceroy of India was a close friend, even more, a personal confidante, of this young upstart activist taking the help of the people he is supposedly resisting at every stage, to then help them!

Does this modus-operandi sound familiar btw, Indians!

To the authors & me, this shows beyond any doubt, per this book & it's collected evidence, that Gandhi had become a 33 & highest degree Grand Master Freemason, & in such capacity, an equal of the Viceroy himself, atleast by early 1910s, & perhaps even earlier!

Also 👇 https://gab.com/PanaceaPlethora/posts/110476671167864572

III. If not enough, we have accounts from this book, reproducing portions from the only 20 of 120 pages left of Gandhi's date-wise maintained 'London Diary' written in 1888 when began his law education in London, that not me but expert ex-Freemasons confirm to being nothing but coded descriptions of his initiation to the early stages of Freemasonry, uptil 3 degree then!

1. https://www.sahistory.org.za/article/mahatma-karamchand-gandhi-timeline-1910-1919 2. https://disa.ukzn.ac.za/gandhi-luthuli-documentation-

3. https://www.tumblr.com/indiejones/719054903995203584/of-gandhis-most-mysterious-inexplicable-for?source=share