Freemasonry

Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest fraternal organization, with an estimated 2-6 million members worldwide. While not a religion, it requires belief in a Supreme Being and incorporates rich spiritual symbolism drawn from ancient building traditions.

Emerging from medieval stonemasons' guilds, modern Freemasonry was established with the founding of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717. The fraternity uses allegorical rituals, symbols of geometry and architecture, and a system of degrees to teach moral lessons.

Core values include: Brotherly Love (kindness and compassion), Relief (charitable action), and Truth (intellectual and spiritual honesty). The tools of masonry—the square, compass, level, and plumb—serve as metaphors for moral rectitude and personal development.

Freemasonry has historically attracted philosophers, scientists, and political leaders, including many Founding Fathers of the United States. Its influence on Enlightenment thought, democratic ideals, and civic institutions is significant.

The organization is structured around local Lodges, with additional bodies offering further degrees of learning. While rituals are private, Freemasonry is not a secret society—its existence and principles are public.

Central to Masonic philosophy is the concept of the "Temple of Solomon" as allegory for building one's character, and the journey from "rough stone" to "perfect ashlar" representing personal moral development.