Freemasonry
What is Freemasonry?
In many of our varied rituals, this very question is not only posed, but answered - in a way that leaves much open: 'Freemasonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols'.
It is also described as a progressive science (this last word in with its etymologically correct sense of 'knowledge'), in part meaning that it has several degrees through which the candidate improves. As progressive, it strives towards a goal, at times referred to as Aletheia: Truth unveiled by the light of Logos (reason).
The moral or ethical dimension of Freemasonry, and its seeking to assist not only the development of the individual, but of the individual within society, results in numerous social philanthropic improvements being undertaken.
Forms of Freemasonry and a brief historical sketch
There are various forms of Freemasonry, yet also something more ephemeral that unites the various Masonic constitutions - even when these do not mutually give each other formal recognition.
Let me also state unequivocally that Freemasonry is not exclusive to men, even if many constitutions exclude women simply on grounds of gender. It should perhaps be explicitly mentioned that a significant number of constitutions are co-masonic (with ever more becoming so especially on the continent of Europe), allowing amongst its ranks both men and women; whilst others are restricted to women. (On the exclusion of women as a claimed 'Landmark' of the Order, Cf Bro Philip Carter's "Albert Through the Looking Glass".)
Freemasonry provides the foundations and continuation of much that is both occidental and esoteric.
Though it has its solid established foundation in mediaeval craft guilds, it has, on the one hand, antecedents in Roman mystery traditions, and from there to both Greek and Egyptian influences, and on the other to Christian Orders within the Roman Catholic Church.
Having said this, it has also, in many ways, shed some of these overt influences in its emergence as independent organisations around the end of the 17th century C.E., with major influences from liberal thinkers of the times. In the beginning of the 18th century, with Anderson's constitutions, we have the basis for much that Freemasonry has become (earlier texts, such as the Regius Manuscript, are also considered by Andersonians as important documents). In some way, the external structure of modern Freemasonry can be viewed as established at this point in time, a lens in time that re-focusses the occidental initiatic impulse.
Relationship between Freemasonry and religion
As mentioned above, Freemasonry arises as an institution both within a context that is at once permeated by Christianity, whilst at the same time formalised in a milieu that sees Christian factions at war with each other. If nothing else, Freemasonry was, in the early parts of the 18th century, one of the few places where those with divergent denominational views would be able to meet as equals or 'on the level'.
Some constitutions have retained a Christian requirement for membership, others (most) have adopted a broader Andersonian perspective (belief in a supreme being - whatever this is and however viewed), and yet others have adopted a more secular liberalist (or 'laïc') approach that one's belief is solely a matter for one's conscience.
My personal preference sides with the liberalist view, despite my own personal religious views. Freemasonry itself espouses no religion, though much of its ritual in most (but not all) constitutions reflects its inheritence by its usage of the Bible.
If asked if one can be a Christian and a Freemason, I would proclaim without any reservations that this is indeed the case. Can one be of another religion and be a Freemason? Again, yes, though one needs to remember that it is likely that the rituals used will be based on especially the Old Testament. The occidental esoteric tradition, as western society generally, has long been syncretised with the living impulse of the Judeo-Christian view - even if this has at times been only an undercurrent within a more overtly secular society.
Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth vs Freedom, Equality, and Fraternity (Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité)
These triplets are used to characterise Freemasonry. Whereas in English speaking countries the first set is more common, the second set (also forming part of the French post-revolution era's call) is used in most European Lodges.
There is, to my reflections at any rate, a very close connection between these. Liberty (Freedom, Freheit, etc.) closely connects to Truth, and in turn to a dimension of the Social Order that Rudolf Steiner terms the Spiritual realm (which includes the arts and education). Brotherly Love and Fraternity have such a close rapport even in name that here what is being called forth is the Agape and Philos found in the realm of work whereby each of our individual engagements in the production of goods and its distribution leads to mutual support. Relief and Egalité (Equality) reflect the judicial-political spectrum, whereby a well-structured society includes measures by which to ensure balances and equitability within the social fabric.
Why become a Freemason?
Why did I even create this heading!?
If one wants to work within an occidental initiatic path, be actively involved in esoteric pursuits and participate in society, Freemasonry remains a foundation stone.
It is also fair to state that what draws others to Freemasonry is as diverse as there are members. For each Freemason what tends to develop as a consequence of participation is a sense of brotherhood, a deepening of one's personal religious views, a broader tolerance towards one's fellow human being and an increased care for the betterment of the world.
How does one join Freemasonry?
Ask. If you do not know any Freemason, check the resources and links page.
I have also prepared a page on what can generally be expected in most places: Becoming a Freemason