The Dan Brown PR machine rolls on with this recent video segment from Charles Gibson at ABC News: "Freemasons: A Secret Society — Is a mysterious organization for men plotting a government takeover?" It's mildly entertaining, once you sit through the commercial for Lean Cuisine. The segment features sound bytes from author Stephen C. Bullock and historian Margaret Jacob.
Architecture of Washington, DC. Eye on the dollar bill. Founding fathers and presidents. Nothing new. They call this news?
Masons | Masonic Secrets | Conspiracy | Freemasonry | ABC News | Burning Taper | BurningTaper.com
Didn't we wear all this out last year with the DaVinci Code movie hype?
ReplyDeleteI thought so, too, but now we gotta go through it again with Dan Brown's "The Solomon Key."
ReplyDelete— W.S.
I thought we controlled abc. How did they slip by us?
ReplyDeleteI will notify our higher ups in the illuminati immediately so they can plot the take over of abc effectively immediately!
All Hail the lizard king!
Br. Arthur Peterson
The only great light is that you are lying. There is a plan of salvation in freemasonry. The lambskin apron proves this. Pike and Hall prove this in the books the wrote.
ReplyDeleteNothing has really been copied and pasted this is all found in many books and monitors.
I'am just so glad that I have a blog about me this is great and I love it.
My recommendation is that you swallow that pride and admit it's a religion big time.
it was one grand lodge and one website of English origin. To answer your question, the only place I can think of is Jesus Christ. However, putting this phrase in proper context in regard to Masonry, the Craft looks the other direction and embraces the Ancient Mystery Religions as being the light that shines in the darkness, or words to that effect. Here is how several grand lodges state it: "It was the single object of all the ancient rites and mysteries practiced in the very bosom of pagan darkness, shining as a solitary beacon in all that surrounding gloom, and cheering the philosopher in his weary pilgrimage of life, to teach the immortality of the soul. This is still the great design of the third degree of Masonry. This is the scope and aim of its ritual. The Master Mason represents man, when youth, manhood, old age, and life itself have passed away as fleeting shadows, yet raised from the grave of iniquity, and quickened into another and a better existence. By its legend and all its ritual, it is implied that we have been redeemed from the death of sin and the sepulchre of pollution."('Nevada Masonic Monitor, Third Degree - Master Mason', pp. 2&3)
QUOTE
Masonry is dedicated to God, the Sovereign Grand Architect of the Universe. It keeps an Altar at the center of the Lodge-room. The Volume of Sacred Law lies open upon it. It begins and ends its undertaking with prayer. When it obligates a candidate he must be upon his knees. Its petitioners must believe in Immortality. All this is genuine religion, not a formal religiousness; it is sincerely held and scrupulously upheld, and without this basis of faith the Craft would wither and die like a tree with roots destroyed. But this religion of Masonry, like all else in its teaching, is not set forth in written creeds, or in any other form of words; the Mason must come upon it for himself, and put it in such form as will satisfy his own mind, leaving others to do likewise. (LSME, Booklet 3, pg. 9)
Religion is an essence, not an accident, of Masonry. It stands at the heart of the Fraternity, as the Altar stands at the center of the Lodge-room, as a symbol of the religious character of Freemasonry. (LSME, Lodge Etiquette, pg. 13)
Just as we saw that the religion of Masonry is that common ground which underlies al religious parties, so is this good citizenship the common ground under all political parties. (LSME, Booklet 1, pg. 12)
In religion it is required of a petitioner that he believes in God, in Immortality, and that he use the Volume of Sacred Law as a rule and guide to his faith, at the same time it is required that he practice tolerance, that he shall not be questioned as to the peculiar form or mode of his faith and shall not question his Brethren. (LSME, Booklet 1, pg. 9)
UNQUOTE
Here are a few more quotes from eminent Masons on the topic:
QUOTE
Definition of Freemasonry in its broadest sense: Freemasonry, in its broadest and most comprehensive sense, is a system of morality and social ethics, a primitive religion, and a philosophy of life, all of a simple and fundamental character, incorporating a broad humanitarianism and, though treating life as a practical experience, subordinates the material to the spiritual; it is a religion without a creed, being of no sect but finding truth in all; ..." (Coil’s Masonic Encyclopedia, 1st edition, pg. 159)
The religion of Masonry is cosmopolitan, universal; but the required belief in God is not incompatible with this universality; for it is the belief of all peoples. “Be assured,” says Godfrey Higgins, “that God is equally present with the pious Hindoo in the temple, the Jew in the synagogue, the Mohammedan in the mosque, and the Christian in the church.” (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, pg. Xx, Albert G. Mackey)
But the religion of Masonry is not sectarian. It admits men of every creed within its hospitable bosom, rejecting none and approving none for his peculiar faith. It is not Judaism, though there is nothing in it to offend a Jew; it is not Christianity, but there is nothing in it repugnant to the faith of a Christian. Its religion is that general one of nature and primitive revelation—handed down to us from some ancient and patriarchal priesthood—in which all men may agree and in which no men can differ. It inculcates the practice of virtue, but it supplies no scheme of redemption for sin. It points its disciples to the path of righteousness but it does not claim to be “the way, the truth, and the life>’ Is no far, therefore, it cannot become a substitute for Christianity, but its tendency is thitherward; and, as the handmaid of religion, it may, and often does, act as the porch that introduces its votaries into the temple of Divine truth. Masonry, then, is, indeed, a religious institution; and on this ground mainly, if not alone, should the religious Mason defend it. (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Pg. 619, Albert G. Mackey)
UNQUOTE
All this is out there for those wishing to know the truth. Masonry often refers to itself as 'religion,' meaning that collection of religious truths that form the basis of all religion, but doesn't want to be called 'a religion.' Still, it comes down to definitions. Propose an authoritative definition of the word 'religion' (that is, not just yours) and I'll show you that Masonry meets it.
Oh boy and now for the final nail in the coffin of masonry its religious nature.
that Freemasonry satisfies them many times.
The Ritual used in Blue Lodge satisfies this quite clearly.
More than one author of a well respected Masonic Encyclopedia has stated that Freemasonry is a religion and has made the case. Here is what Coil had to say:
Definition of Religion. Funk and Wagnalls' New Standard Dictionary (1941) defines Religion as: "A belief in an invisible superhuman power (or powers), conceived or after the analogy of the human spirit, on which (or whom) man regards himself as dependent, and to which (or whom) he things himself in some degree responsible, together with the feelings and practices which naturally flow from such belief." This comes close to defining Freemasonry as many writers have defined it saying that the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man is the whole story. Freemasonry certainly requires a belief in the existence of, and man's dependence upon, a Supreme Being to whom he is responsible. What can a church add to that, except to bring into one fellowship those who have like feelings? That is exactly what the Lodge does.
Belief; Creed: Tenet; Dogma. Does Freemasonry have a creed (I believe) or tenet (he holds) or dogma (I think) to which all members must adhere? Does Freemasonry continually teach and insist upon a creed, tenet, and dogma? Does it have meetings characterized by the practice of rites and ceremonies in and by which its creed, tenet, and dogma are illustrated by myths, symbols, and allegories? If Freemasonry were not a religion, what would have to be done to make it such? Nothing would be necessary or at least nothing but to add more of the same. That brings us to the real crux of the matter; the difference between a lodge and a church is one of degree and not of kind. Some think that, because it is not a strong or highly formalized or highly dogmatized religion such as the Roman Catholic Church where it is difficult to tell whether the congregation is worshiping God, Christ, or the Virgin Mary, it can be no religion at all. But a church of Friends (Quakers) exhibits even less formality and ritual than does a Masonic Lodge The fact that Freemasonry is a mild religion does not mean that it is no religion.
A man may be born without religious ceremony; he may be married without religious ceremony; he may live a long life without religious ceremony; but one moment comes to every man when he feels the need of that missing thing--when he comes to crossing into the great beyond. Freemasonry has a religious service to commit the body of a deceased brother to the dust whence it came and to speed the liberated spirit back to the Great Source of Light. Many Freemasons make this flight with no other guarantee of a safe landing than their belief in the religion of Freemasonry. If that is a false hope, the Fraternity should abandon funeral services and devote its attention to activities where it is sure of its ground and its authority.
Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia, topic: Religion, p. 512.
Ah I just keep going because this gets better and better as it goes on.
Consider the teaching of Freemasonry contained in the Oklahoma Monitor:
Let all the energies of our minds and the affections of our souls be employed in the attainment of our Supreme Grand Master's approbation, that when the hour of our dissolution draws nigh and the cold winds of death come signing around us, and his chill dew glistens on our foreheads, we may with joy obey the summons of the Grand Warden of Heaven and go from our labors here on earth to everlasting refreshment in the Paradise of God, where, by the benefit of a pass, a pure life, and a firm reliance on Divine Providence, we shall gain a ready admission into the Celestial Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of the Universe presides, where seated at the right hand of our Supreme Grand Master, He will be pleased to pronounce us just and upright Masons. Murrow Masonic Monitor and Ceremonies (Oklahoma), 1997, p.90
This teaching is applied to the Hindu Mason, the Muslim Mason and the Jewish Mason. It states how they will get into heaven.
The majority of Masons do not have to agree with Coil for Freemasonry to be a religion. The characteristics of Freemasonry are what make it a religion. That Masons deny that Freemasonry is a religion is evidence that they have not applied reason to the facts, or they are dishonest.
In your post of August 31, 2004 - 10:59 pm you provided a collection of definitions which contained two elements defining religion. Freemasonry satisfies those two elements, therefore it is a religion.
In your latest post you add additional qualifications which are not essentials. In other words, they do not have to be present in order for something to be a religion. Even though these things do not need to be satisfied, it can be shown that Freemasonry satisfies some of them.
There does not have to be a priesthood or clergy for something to be a religion. Nevertheless, Freemasonry has a Chaplain and a Worshipful Master. Look at how the Worshipful Master functions during the Legend of the Third Degree.
Freemasonry also has a set of canonical beliefs and practices and a means of preserving them. The Fatherhood of God, Brotherhood of man heresy is one of the canonical beliefs of Freemasonry. A peculiar form of Monotheism which includes the gods even of polytheistic religions is another. As for a means of preserving adherence to the practices of Freemasonry, one could look to the ritual and then, the obligation contained within that ritual.
As for a having a moral code, Freemasonry certainly qualifies. Freemasonry teaches morals and has established a set of laws under which a Mason may be tried for breaching his Masonic duties. A Mason may be tried for un-Masonic conduct. The laws of Freemasonry are well codified in Masonic books of law. One example is the Blue Book of the COMPILED LAWS OF 1940 of the GRAND LODGE of FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS of the STATE OF MICHIGAN. We have Blue Books and books of Masonic Code for many different Grand Lodges.
Masonic Grand Lodges produce Monitors which are issued to newly raised Masons. These authoritative documents contain religious teachings and often contain instructions about how a Mason may gain entry into heaven.
The dishonesty must lie at the feet of members of the Craft, based on the fact that the average rank and file member is saying one thing, regarding whether Freemasonry is or isn't a religion, while Masonry's recognized and recommended scholars and authorities are saying the opposite. When you figure who it is who is being dishonest - Mackey, Pike, Coil, Hall, etc.; or you - we would appreciate the air being cleared on this matter.
yet I see no Masons stepping forward accusing Coil, etc. of being dishonest, even though we are simply quoting what they have written.
Let's meet on the square and hang on the level... or hang and level and meet on the square. Or lets just be level.
Jean.
Jean wrote: "My recommendation is that you swallow that pride and admit it's a religion big time."
ReplyDeleteJean,
I've already admitted it's a religion. We're quite happy with our religion. Why don't you leave us alone to practice our religion?
— W.S.
You did a blog about me. So why can I not defend myself? Are you the type of person that throws sand in the sandbox, then gets mad when sand gets thrown in your eyes? Grow a pair widow.
ReplyDeleteDon't put up blogs about me and expect me to sit their.
Jean.
No sand in my eyes, Jean. No one's stopped you from saying a damn thing, have they?
ReplyDelete— W.S.
I find Jean funny.
ReplyDeleteDewi
Oh Jean,
ReplyDeleteShe/He is a regular now and adds "color" to the scene.
Jean, I'm trying to understand, how did Widow's son throw sand in your eyes? He did blog about you very recently but that was after you left sooo many comments in his blog in the first place. If you think about it, who was the one who came here in the first place? Did someone force you to read his blogs or comment? Just trying to use logic to figure things out.
~Ephraim
At the risk of baiting...
ReplyDeleteJean, I can't believe that you completely miss the point that you (albeit inadvertently) made here:
The majority of Masons do not have to agree with Coil for Freemasonry to be a religion. The characteristics of Freemasonry are what make it a religion. That Masons deny that Freemasonry is a religion is evidence that they have not applied reason to the facts, or they are dishonest.
And once again I have to ask: What kind of religion could it possibly be in which most members do not believe it to be one?
Jean, have you ever had an original thought?
ReplyDeleteor do you just cut and paste?
Ok, all the masons here agree freemasonry is a religion, you've proved your point, what next are you going to try to prove to us?
Since we all agree that it is a relgion, and none of us seem to care but you, maybe take it where people care what you think?
Convince a new batch of masons elsewhere, you did your job here,
IT IS A RELIGION,glad that is done, it was nice blogging with you and hope you will go convert others...or better yet , start a new blog about masonry and we will come post there?
sweet jean, is it that time of month for you?
The natural source of secrecy is fear. When any new religion over-runs a former religion, the professors of the new become the persecutors of the old. We see this in all instances that history brings before us. When Hilkiah the priest and Shaphan the scribe, in the reign of King Josiah, found, or pretended to find, the law, called the law of Moses, a thousand years after the time of Moses, (and it does not appear from 2 Kings, xxii., xxiii., that such a law was ever practiced or known before the time of Josiah), he established that law as a national religion, and put all the priests of the Sun to death. When the christian religion over-ran the Jewish religion, the Jews were the continual subject of persecution in all christian countries. When the Protestant religion in England over-ran the Roman Catholic religion, it was made death for a Catholic priest to be found in England. As this has been the case in all the instances we have any knowledge of, we are obliged to admit it with respect to the case in question, and that when the christian religion over-ran the religion of the Druids in Italy, ancient Gaul, Britain, and Ireland, the Druids became the subject of persecution. This would naturally and necessarily oblige such of them as remained attached to their original religion to meet in secret, and under the strongest injunctions of secrecy. Their safety depended upon it. A false brother might expose the lives of many of them to destruction; and from the remains of the religion of the Druids, thus preserved, arose the institution which, to avoid the name of Druid, took that of Mason, and practiced under this new name the rites and ceremonies of Druids.
ReplyDeletethomas paine
"What kind of religion could it possibly be in which most members do not believe it to be one?"
ReplyDeleteAt the risk of presenting an unpleasant thought here, could it be that a "religion," which most members deny, might be more accurately described as a "cult?"
That might be worth thinking about..... particularly when it comes to bizarre rituals involving blindfolds and ropes, strange oaths, elaborate costumes, secret signs and modes of recognition, etc.
Let's assume that Freemasonry isn't a "religion." Aside from the fact that probably none of us want to consider ourselves cult members, what's to prevent Masonry from technically qualifying as a "cult?"
I'm sure glad Jean has saved us all. I don't know how we got along without him/her/it. Thanks, Jean, and pass the snakes!
ReplyDeleteWidow,
ReplyDeleteI have been a long time reader of your blog and enjoyed it very much. While I am in California and our lodge may differ a little from yours (on our alter we have a bible, koran, and tora)we are all basically the same. I have enjoyed the insite from other brothers from around the US and their thoughts on things.
With that being said, this Jean really needs to get a life. How one person be so misguided. All Jean does is spote the typical anti crap and can not think for herself. I guess that makes it easier to follow her god blindly.
Jean if you think your God is the right one her is a few things you should think about:
1. Chist was not born on or near Dec 25th. That is a plan and simple fact. The church used that date because it was close to the pegan winter ritual and close to Hanaka (spelling). This made it easier for conversions.
2. Do you honestly think that the bible is complete? there are hundreds of "gospels" that were not added to the current bible.
3. Look into the council or trent and the council Nicia (sorry, spelling again).
4. Why do all the religons have a character that has been "raised" these stories date back farther than christ, funny how christians just so happen to have their god do the same thing. I gues the christian god, much like yourself didn't have an original thought and had to copy others.
“It begins and ends its undertaking with prayer.” Congress starts with a prayer is that a religion.
ReplyDelete“Its petitioners must believe in Immortality.” I was never asked this question and I do not know of anyone that was asked this question.
“Religion is an essence, not an accident, of Masonry. It stands at the heart of the Fraternity, as the Altar stands at the center of the Lodge-room, as a symbol of the religious character of Freemasonry.” So is not good to men of god in an organization. I would rather have a man of god than murders and rapist.
“In religion it is required of a petitioner that he believes in God, in Immortality, and that he use the Volume of Sacred Law as a rule and guide to his faith, at the same time it is required that he practice tolerance, that he shall not be questioned as to the peculiar form or mode of his faith and shall not question his Brethren.” This is what says that masonry is not a religion. You must have faith to join the masons. That faith is not in masonry but in “your God.”
“Definition of Freemasonry in its broadest sense: Freemasonry, in its broadest and most comprehensive sense, is a system of morality and social ethics, a primitive religion, and a philosophy of life, all of a simple and fundamental character, incorporating a broad humanitarianism and, though treating life as a practical experience, subordinates the material to the spiritual; it is a religion without a creed, being of no sect but finding truth in all.” This one I like and Jean I know you like because of the “a primitive religion.” So what is religion, Merriam-Webster says:
1 a : the state of a religious {a nun in her 20th year of religion}b (1) : the service and worship of God or the supernatural (2) : commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance
2 : a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices
3 archaic : scrupulous conformity : CONSCIENTIOUSNESS
4 : a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith
Well Masonry is not a religion under Merriam-Webster definition under the, “1 commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance” as a man from any faith may join. “2 : a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices.” There are no set beliefs for any member of the Masons. “3 archaic : scrupulous conformity : CONSCIENTIOUSNESS.” As above there is no one set of religious text i.e.: Bible, Koran, and Torah. “4 : a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith.” As above the belief is the persons not the lodges.
Dewi
These are the best you got here these people. I guess all those scholars and monitors are lying? Give it up and pass the lambskin apron so I can meet all your great liars in the big lodge in the sky.
ReplyDeleteThe only great light is that you are lying. There is a plan of salvation in freemasonry. The lambskin apron proves this. Pike and Hall prove this in the books the wrote.
Nothing has really been copied and pasted this is all found in many books and monitors.
I'am just so glad that I have a blog about me this is great and I love it.
My recommendation is that you swallow that pride and admit it's a religion big time.
it was one grand lodge and one website of English origin. To answer your question, the only place I can think of is Jesus Christ. However, putting this phrase in proper context in regard to Masonry, the Craft looks the other direction and embraces the Ancient Mystery Religions as being the light that shines in the darkness, or words to that effect. Here is how several grand lodges state it: "It was the single object of all the ancient rites and mysteries practiced in the very bosom of pagan darkness, shining as a solitary beacon in all that surrounding gloom, and cheering the philosopher in his weary pilgrimage of life, to teach the immortality of the soul. This is still the great design of the third degree of Masonry. This is the scope and aim of its ritual. The Master Mason represents man, when youth, manhood, old age, and life itself have passed away as fleeting shadows, yet raised from the grave of iniquity, and quickened into another and a better existence. By its legend and all its ritual, it is implied that we have been redeemed from the death of sin and the sepulchre of pollution."('Nevada Masonic Monitor, Third Degree - Master Mason', pp. 2&3)
QUOTE
Masonry is dedicated to God, the Sovereign Grand Architect of the Universe. It keeps an Altar at the center of the Lodge-room. The Volume of Sacred Law lies open upon it. It begins and ends its undertaking with prayer. When it obligates a candidate he must be upon his knees. Its petitioners must believe in Immortality. All this is genuine religion, not a formal religiousness; it is sincerely held and scrupulously upheld, and without this basis of faith the Craft would wither and die like a tree with roots destroyed. But this religion of Masonry, like all else in its teaching, is not set forth in written creeds, or in any other form of words; the Mason must come upon it for himself, and put it in such form as will satisfy his own mind, leaving others to do likewise. (LSME, Booklet 3, pg. 9)
Religion is an essence, not an accident, of Masonry. It stands at the heart of the Fraternity, as the Altar stands at the center of the Lodge-room, as a symbol of the religious character of Freemasonry. (LSME, Lodge Etiquette, pg. 13)
Just as we saw that the religion of Masonry is that common ground which underlies al religious parties, so is this good citizenship the common ground under all political parties. (LSME, Booklet 1, pg. 12)
In religion it is required of a petitioner that he believes in God, in Immortality, and that he use the Volume of Sacred Law as a rule and guide to his faith, at the same time it is required that he practice tolerance, that he shall not be questioned as to the peculiar form or mode of his faith and shall not question his Brethren. (LSME, Booklet 1, pg. 9)
UNQUOTE
Here are a few more quotes from eminent Masons on the topic:
QUOTE
Definition of Freemasonry in its broadest sense: Freemasonry, in its broadest and most comprehensive sense, is a system of morality and social ethics, a primitive religion, and a philosophy of life, all of a simple and fundamental character, incorporating a broad humanitarianism and, though treating life as a practical experience, subordinates the material to the spiritual; it is a religion without a creed, being of no sect but finding truth in all; ..." (Coil’s Masonic Encyclopedia, 1st edition, pg. 159)
The religion of Masonry is cosmopolitan, universal; but the required belief in God is not incompatible with this universality; for it is the belief of all peoples. “Be assured,” says Godfrey Higgins, “that God is equally present with the pious Hindoo in the temple, the Jew in the synagogue, the Mohammedan in the mosque, and the Christian in the church.” (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, pg. Xx, Albert G. Mackey)
But the religion of Masonry is not sectarian. It admits men of every creed within its hospitable bosom, rejecting none and approving none for his peculiar faith. It is not Judaism, though there is nothing in it to offend a Jew; it is not Christianity, but there is nothing in it repugnant to the faith of a Christian. Its religion is that general one of nature and primitive revelation—handed down to us from some ancient and patriarchal priesthood—in which all men may agree and in which no men can differ. It inculcates the practice of virtue, but it supplies no scheme of redemption for sin. It points its disciples to the path of righteousness but it does not claim to be “the way, the truth, and the life>’ Is no far, therefore, it cannot become a substitute for Christianity, but its tendency is thitherward; and, as the handmaid of religion, it may, and often does, act as the porch that introduces its votaries into the temple of Divine truth. Masonry, then, is, indeed, a religious institution; and on this ground mainly, if not alone, should the religious Mason defend it. (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Pg. 619, Albert G. Mackey)
UNQUOTE
All this is out there for those wishing to know the truth. Masonry often refers to itself as 'religion,' meaning that collection of religious truths that form the basis of all religion, but doesn't want to be called 'a religion.' Still, it comes down to definitions. Propose an authoritative definition of the word 'religion' (that is, not just yours) and I'll show you that Masonry meets it.
Oh boy and now for the final nail in the coffin of masonry its religious nature.
that Freemasonry satisfies them many times.
The Ritual used in Blue Lodge satisfies this quite clearly.
More than one author of a well respected Masonic Encyclopedia has stated that Freemasonry is a religion and has made the case. Here is what Coil had to say:
Definition of Religion. Funk and Wagnalls' New Standard Dictionary (1941) defines Religion as: "A belief in an invisible superhuman power (or powers), conceived or after the analogy of the human spirit, on which (or whom) man regards himself as dependent, and to which (or whom) he things himself in some degree responsible, together with the feelings and practices which naturally flow from such belief." This comes close to defining Freemasonry as many writers have defined it saying that the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man is the whole story. Freemasonry certainly requires a belief in the existence of, and man's dependence upon, a Supreme Being to whom he is responsible. What can a church add to that, except to bring into one fellowship those who have like feelings? That is exactly what the Lodge does.
Belief; Creed: Tenet; Dogma. Does Freemasonry have a creed (I believe) or tenet (he holds) or dogma (I think) to which all members must adhere? Does Freemasonry continually teach and insist upon a creed, tenet, and dogma? Does it have meetings characterized by the practice of rites and ceremonies in and by which its creed, tenet, and dogma are illustrated by myths, symbols, and allegories? If Freemasonry were not a religion, what would have to be done to make it such? Nothing would be necessary or at least nothing but to add more of the same. That brings us to the real crux of the matter; the difference between a lodge and a church is one of degree and not of kind. Some think that, because it is not a strong or highly formalized or highly dogmatized religion such as the Roman Catholic Church where it is difficult to tell whether the congregation is worshiping God, Christ, or the Virgin Mary, it can be no religion at all. But a church of Friends (Quakers) exhibits even less formality and ritual than does a Masonic Lodge The fact that Freemasonry is a mild religion does not mean that it is no religion.
A man may be born without religious ceremony; he may be married without religious ceremony; he may live a long life without religious ceremony; but one moment comes to every man when he feels the need of that missing thing--when he comes to crossing into the great beyond. Freemasonry has a religious service to commit the body of a deceased brother to the dust whence it came and to speed the liberated spirit back to the Great Source of Light. Many Freemasons make this flight with no other guarantee of a safe landing than their belief in the religion of Freemasonry. If that is a false hope, the Fraternity should abandon funeral services and devote its attention to activities where it is sure of its ground and its authority.
Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia, topic: Religion, p. 512.
Ah I just keep going because this gets better and better as it goes on.
Consider the teaching of Freemasonry contained in the Oklahoma Monitor:
Let all the energies of our minds and the affections of our souls be employed in the attainment of our Supreme Grand Master's approbation, that when the hour of our dissolution draws nigh and the cold winds of death come signing around us, and his chill dew glistens on our foreheads, we may with joy obey the summons of the Grand Warden of Heaven and go from our labors here on earth to everlasting refreshment in the Paradise of God, where, by the benefit of a pass, a pure life, and a firm reliance on Divine Providence, we shall gain a ready admission into the Celestial Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of the Universe presides, where seated at the right hand of our Supreme Grand Master, He will be pleased to pronounce us just and upright Masons. Murrow Masonic Monitor and Ceremonies (Oklahoma), 1997, p.90
This teaching is applied to the Hindu Mason, the Muslim Mason and the Jewish Mason. It states how they will get into heaven.
The majority of Masons do not have to agree with Coil for Freemasonry to be a religion. The characteristics of Freemasonry are what make it a religion. That Masons deny that Freemasonry is a religion is evidence that they have not applied reason to the facts, or they are dishonest.
In your post of August 31, 2004 - 10:59 pm you provided a collection of definitions which contained two elements defining religion. Freemasonry satisfies those two elements, therefore it is a religion.
In your latest post you add additional qualifications which are not essentials. In other words, they do not have to be present in order for something to be a religion. Even though these things do not need to be satisfied, it can be shown that Freemasonry satisfies some of them.
There does not have to be a priesthood or clergy for something to be a religion. Nevertheless, Freemasonry has a Chaplain and a Worshipful Master. Look at how the Worshipful Master functions during the Legend of the Third Degree.
Freemasonry also has a set of canonical beliefs and practices and a means of preserving them. The Fatherhood of God, Brotherhood of man heresy is one of the canonical beliefs of Freemasonry. A peculiar form of Monotheism which includes the gods even of polytheistic religions is another. As for a means of preserving adherence to the practices of Freemasonry, one could look to the ritual and then, the obligation contained within that ritual.
As for a having a moral code, Freemasonry certainly qualifies. Freemasonry teaches morals and has established a set of laws under which a Mason may be tried for breaching his Masonic duties. A Mason may be tried for un-Masonic conduct. The laws of Freemasonry are well codified in Masonic books of law. One example is the Blue Book of the COMPILED LAWS OF 1940 of the GRAND LODGE of FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS of the STATE OF MICHIGAN. We have Blue Books and books of Masonic Code for many different Grand Lodges.
Masonic Grand Lodges produce Monitors which are issued to newly raised Masons. These authoritative documents contain religious teachings and often contain instructions about how a Mason may gain entry into heaven.
The dishonesty must lie at the feet of members of the Craft, based on the fact that the average rank and file member is saying one thing, regarding whether Freemasonry is or isn't a religion, while Masonry's recognized and recommended scholars and authorities are saying the opposite. When you figure who it is who is being dishonest - Mackey, Pike, Coil, Hall, etc.; or you - we would appreciate the air being cleared on this matter.
yet I see no Masons stepping forward accusing Coil, etc. of being dishonest, even though we are simply quoting what they have written.
Let's meet on the square and hang on the level... or hang and level and meet on the square. Or lets just be level.
Jean.
Masonry ='s a religion.
Jean,
ReplyDeleteIn all seriousness, are you suffering from a brain tumor?
Have you a learning disability?
Are you on drugs?
Should you be?
I ask these very seriously because there is one simple concept you do not seem to grasp. A concept that even my child understands.
Freemasonry is many things to many people. No one man or group of men speaks for us all.
Was Pike, Mackey, Coil etc. lieing?
NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO
They were giving THEIR opinion of what Freemasonry is.
I have a different one.
WS has a different one than me.
Hell even you have a different one than both of us (the difference is our opinion is based on experience)
Are any of us wrong? NO, NO, NO, NO
Perhaps you enjoy being an ass or perhaps you sincerely can't grasp simple concepts. I don't know.
Personally, I think you are a very lonely individual who can not find anyone who will talk to you in real life.
So, you troll these sites baiting people into these circular debates.
Afterall, you are so obnoxious NO ONE would talk to you otherwise.
I bet you can't even keep a one legged dog around. I bet your damn pet rock even rolled out on you.
Do you have anykind of pets?
Thought not.
Br. Arthur Peterson
It is my belief that Jean is mad that she was not born with a penis, thus she is not able to join a lodge.
ReplyDeleteOn a side note, can you imagine being married to her, everynight at dinner it would be the same conversation.
Thank you so much doctor for that. I'am really thankful for your advice. Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless.
The tendency of all true Masonry is toward religion. If it make any progress, its progress is to that holy end. Look at its ancient landmarks, its sublime ceremonies, its profound symbols and allegories - all inculcating religious doctrine, commanding religious observance, and teaching religious truth, and who can deny that it is eminently a religious institution?('Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry', by Mackey, p. 618, vol. 2)
"Masonry, then, is, indeed, a religious institution; and on this ground mainly, if not alone, should the religious Mason defend it."('Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry', by Mackey, p. 619, vol. 2)
Henry Wilson Coil used the dictionary definition of "religion", as per Funk and Wagnall's, in proving his case that Freemasonry is a religion:
“Definition of Religion. Funk and Wagnall’s ‘New Standard Dictionary’ (1941) defines Religion as: ‘A belief in an invisible superhuman power (or powers), conceived of after the analogy of the human spirit, on which (or whom) man regards himself as dependent, and to which (or whom) he thinks himself in some degree responsible, together with the feelings and practices which naturally flow from such belief.’ This comes close to defining Freemasonry as many writers have defined it saying that the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man is the whole story. Freemasonry certainly requires a belief in the existence of, and man’s dependence upon, a Supreme Being to whom he is responsible. What can a church add to that, except to bring into one fellowship those who have life feelings? That is exactly what the lodge does.”
"Does Freemasonry have a creed (I believe) or tenet (he holds) or dogma (I think) to which all members must adhere? Does Freemasonry continually teach and insist upon a creed, tenet, and dogma? Does it have meetings characterized by the practice of rites and ceremonies in and by which its creed, tenet, and dogma are illustrated by myths, symbols, and allegories? If Freemasonry were not religion, what would have to be done to make it such? Nothing would be necessary or at least nothing but to add more of the same. That brings us to the real crux of the matter; the difference between a lodge and a church is one of degree and not of kind." ('Coils' Masonic Encyclopedia')
I realize you would prefer that we use whatever you wish to call a definition of religion. However, since we know of no dictionary you have published, we find very little reason to accept your "definition" of religion over the more lucid definitions found in legitimate dictionaries.
Masonry presents a god of sorts that its members are to pray to; Masonry requires belief in a supreme being; Masonry requires belief in the immortality of the soul; Masonry presents a plan of salvation; Masonry engages in a regeneration ceremony, similar to those engaged in by the Ancient Mystery Religions; Masonry professes three articles of faith. Albert G. Mackey is regarded as being among the great, if not the greatest of all, Masonic authorities.
Lets read that last sentence again, shall we? Masonry professes three articles of faith. Albert G. Mackey is regarded as being among the great, if not the greatest of all, Masonic authorities.
Two facts about whether Freemasonry is a religion:
1. Its own recognized authority - perhaps the greatest Masonic authority of all time - Albert G. Mackey says it is, along with other Masonic scholars; and
2. Its Grand Lodges keep trying to say the opposite. Once again, somewhat ludicrous in light of the fact that virtually all of them listed Mackey's encyclopedia on their recommended reading lists.
Lets all read that last sentence again, shall we? Once again, somewhat ludicrous in light of the fact that virtually all of them listed Mackey's encyclopedia on their recommended reading lists.
Until then, here is one of the preferred statements about classifying Masonry as a religion and having a "religious nature", as the author here, John Weldon, points out:
Masonry claims it has the qualities of a religion but is still not a religion; or that it is religious but still not a religion. However, the latter point makes as much sense (as even Coil pointed out) as to say that a man has no intellect but is intellectual, or that he has no honor but is honorable. Religious is defined as "imbued with or adhering to religion or a religion."[41]
While it is possible for an organization to have a religious quality and yet not be a religion -- such as Christian groups that specialize in missions or research and have daily periods of prayer, Masonry is more than this. The religious quality of Christian organizations is based on Christianity while the religious quality of Masonry is based on Masonry itself, which qualifies it as a religion.
The (Southern Baptist) Study wrongly concluded that Masonry is not a religion. Nevertheless it was forced to confess that "many men make the Lodge their religion."[42]
The major issue in determining whether Masonry is a religion is to look at its demands on the candidate. Masonry requires the candidate to believe in God, obey Him, worship Him, seek His guidance, and so forth, which qualifies it as a religion. And, as I have already documented, Masonry claims its members will earn admittance to heaven based on personal character and good works. This also classifies the Lodge as a religion. In fact, any standard dictionary or encyclopedia definition of religion proves beyond doubt that Masonry is a religion.[43] Dr. Shildes Johnson is only one of many scholars of comparative religion who have concluded: "A comparison of the moral, allegorical, and symbolic teachings of Freemasonry with these definitions of a religion reveals that the lodge is a theistic, non-Christian, man-centered, and universal religion."[44]
All this is why numerous leading Masonic authorities have publicly confessed that Masonry is, in fact, a religion. For example:
Albert G. Mackey: "The religion of Masonry is cosmopolitan, universal...."[45]
Henry Wilson Coil: "Religion is espoused by the Masonic Ritual and required of the candidate"; and, "Freemasonry is undoubtedly religion"; and, "Many Freemasons make this flight [to heaven] with no other guarantee of a safe landing than their belief in the religion of Freemasonry" (emphasis added).[46]
Albert Pike: "Masonry...is the universal, eternal, immutable religion...."[47]
Joseph Fort Newton: "Everything in Masonry has reference to God, implies God, speaks of God, points and leads to God. Not a degree, not a symbol, not an obligation, not a lecture, not a charge but finds its meaning and derives its beauty from God the Great Architect, in whose temple all Masons are workmen."[48]
You better get some better masons in here. Your straw men just won't cut it anymore Widow's son. But keep thumping that square and compass. Lets meet on the wooden hammer, rest on the square, and hang out on the level.
Jean.
Well Jean, since you haven't answered me elsewhere, I like you will set it aside your posts until you do:
ReplyDelete1. What religious system are you aware of where "purity of life and rectitude of conduct" are *not necessary for admission to a pleasant afterlife?
2. What about Matthew Chapter 25 verses 31-46? Let me quote them for you since you are so fond of long posts:
When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth [his] sheep from the goats:
And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed [thee]? or thirsty, and gave [thee] drink?
When saw we thee a stranger, and took [thee] in? or naked, and clothed [thee]?
Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done [it] unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done [it] unto me.
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:
For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:
I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.
Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?
Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did [it] not to one of the least of these, ye did [it] not to me.
And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
So Jean, clearly according to Jesus' own words, works are a necessary component to salvation.
I would say that rather than teaching something new, Masonry reminds a man of what he has already been taught.
I look forward to your reply.
Traveling Man
"Jean" wrote:
ReplyDelete"I'am just so glad that I have a blog about me this is great and I love it."
I guess this is the plain and simple explanation for Jean's repeated ... err... 'reasoning'.
He/she will feel great and powerful as long as we let her/him engage us into a discussion about something she/he has no clue of.
Why keep bothering, dear Brothers?
Ludwig
i gotta be honest, i no longer read anything "jean" posts because, frankly, s/he's an idiot.
ReplyDeletei know thats "unmasonic" etc to say such things, but come on, this has gone on for way too freakin' long.
frankly, it's boring.
and i mean, really, really, really boring.
sorry for any offence to my brothers.
c.z.
The tendency of all true Masonry is toward religion. If it make any progress, its progress is to that holy end. Look at its ancient landmarks, its sublime ceremonies, its profound symbols and allegories - all inculcating religious doctrine, commanding religious observance, and teaching religious truth, and who can deny that it is eminently a religious institution?('Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry', by Mackey, p. 618, vol. 2)
ReplyDelete"Masonry, then, is, indeed, a religious institution; and on this ground mainly, if not alone, should the religious Mason defend it."('Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry', by Mackey, p. 619, vol. 2)
Henry Wilson Coil used the dictionary definition of "religion", as per Funk and Wagnall's, in proving his case that Freemasonry is a religion:
“Definition of Religion. Funk and Wagnall’s ‘New Standard Dictionary’ (1941) defines Religion as: ‘A belief in an invisible superhuman power (or powers), conceived of after the analogy of the human spirit, on which (or whom) man regards himself as dependent, and to which (or whom) he thinks himself in some degree responsible, together with the feelings and practices which naturally flow from such belief.’ This comes close to defining Freemasonry as many writers have defined it saying that the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man is the whole story. Freemasonry certainly requires a belief in the existence of, and man’s dependence upon, a Supreme Being to whom he is responsible. What can a church add to that, except to bring into one fellowship those who have life feelings? That is exactly what the lodge does.”
"Does Freemasonry have a creed (I believe) or tenet (he holds) or dogma (I think) to which all members must adhere? Does Freemasonry continually teach and insist upon a creed, tenet, and dogma? Does it have meetings characterized by the practice of rites and ceremonies in and by which its creed, tenet, and dogma are illustrated by myths, symbols, and allegories? If Freemasonry were not religion, what would have to be done to make it such? Nothing would be necessary or at least nothing but to add more of the same. That brings us to the real crux of the matter; the difference between a lodge and a church is one of degree and not of kind." ('Coils' Masonic Encyclopedia')
I realize you would prefer that we use whatever you wish to call a definition of religion. However, since we know of no dictionary you have published, we find very little reason to accept your "definition" of religion over the more lucid definitions found in legitimate dictionaries.
Masonry presents a god of sorts that its members are to pray to; Masonry requires belief in a supreme being; Masonry requires belief in the immortality of the soul; Masonry presents a plan of salvation; Masonry engages in a regeneration ceremony, similar to those engaged in by the Ancient Mystery Religions; Masonry professes three articles of faith. Albert G. Mackey is regarded as being among the great, if not the greatest of all, Masonic authorities.
Lets read that last sentence again, shall we? Masonry professes three articles of faith. Albert G. Mackey is regarded as being among the great, if not the greatest of all, Masonic authorities.
Two facts about whether Freemasonry is a religion:
1. Its own recognized authority - perhaps the greatest Masonic authority of all time - Albert G. Mackey says it is, along with other Masonic scholars; and
2. Its Grand Lodges keep trying to say the opposite. Once again, somewhat ludicrous in light of the fact that virtually all of them listed Mackey's encyclopedia on their recommended reading lists.
Lets all read that last sentence again, shall we? Once again, somewhat ludicrous in light of the fact that virtually all of them listed Mackey's encyclopedia on their recommended reading lists.
Until then, here is one of the preferred statements about classifying Masonry as a religion and having a "religious nature", as the author here, John Weldon, points out:
Masonry claims it has the qualities of a religion but is still not a religion; or that it is religious but still not a religion. However, the latter point makes as much sense (as even Coil pointed out) as to say that a man has no intellect but is intellectual, or that he has no honor but is honorable. Religious is defined as "imbued with or adhering to religion or a religion."[41]
While it is possible for an organization to have a religious quality and yet not be a religion -- such as Christian groups that specialize in missions or research and have daily periods of prayer, Masonry is more than this. The religious quality of Christian organizations is based on Christianity while the religious quality of Masonry is based on Masonry itself, which qualifies it as a religion.
The (Southern Baptist) Study wrongly concluded that Masonry is not a religion. Nevertheless it was forced to confess that "many men make the Lodge their religion."[42]
The major issue in determining whether Masonry is a religion is to look at its demands on the candidate. Masonry requires the candidate to believe in God, obey Him, worship Him, seek His guidance, and so forth, which qualifies it as a religion. And, as I have already documented, Masonry claims its members will earn admittance to heaven based on personal character and good works. This also classifies the Lodge as a religion. In fact, any standard dictionary or encyclopedia definition of religion proves beyond doubt that Masonry is a religion.[43] Dr. Shildes Johnson is only one of many scholars of comparative religion who have concluded: "A comparison of the moral, allegorical, and symbolic teachings of Freemasonry with these definitions of a religion reveals that the lodge is a theistic, non-Christian, man-centered, and universal religion."[44]
All this is why numerous leading Masonic authorities have publicly confessed that Masonry is, in fact, a religion. For example:
Albert G. Mackey: "The religion of Masonry is cosmopolitan, universal...."[45]
Henry Wilson Coil: "Religion is espoused by the Masonic Ritual and required of the candidate"; and, "Freemasonry is undoubtedly religion"; and, "Many Freemasons make this flight [to heaven] with no other guarantee of a safe landing than their belief in the religion of Freemasonry" (emphasis added).[46]
Albert Pike: "Masonry...is the universal, eternal, immutable religion...."[47]
Joseph Fort Newton: "Everything in Masonry has reference to God, implies God, speaks of God, points and leads to God. Not a degree, not a symbol, not an obligation, not a lecture, not a charge but finds its meaning and derives its beauty from God the Great Architect, in whose temple all Masons are workmen."[48]
You better get some better masons in here. Your straw men just won't cut it anymore Widow's son. But keep thumping that square and compass. Lets meet on the wooden hammer, rest on the square, and hang out on the level.
Jean.
STOP CUTTING AND PASTING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
ReplyDeleteYOU'RE NOT PROVING ANYTHING.
seriously, if you thought you were right and had made your point, why keep copying-and-pasting THE EXACT SAME THING every single time you open your cyber-mouth?
c.z.
crow zampano said...
ReplyDeleteSTOP CUTTING AND PASTING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
YOU'RE NOT PROVING ANYTHING.
seriously, if you thought you were right and had made your point, why keep copying-and-pasting THE EXACT SAME THING every single time you open your cyber-mouth?
c.z.
Stop lying. Do you have high blood pressure? Better lay off all that salt at your bbq big guy.
The tendency of all true Masonry is toward religion. If it make any progress, its progress is to that holy end. Look at its ancient landmarks, its sublime ceremonies, its profound symbols and allegories - all inculcating religious doctrine, commanding religious observance, and teaching religious truth, and who can deny that it is eminently a religious institution?('Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry', by Mackey, p. 618, vol. 2)
"Masonry, then, is, indeed, a religious institution; and on this ground mainly, if not alone, should the religious Mason defend it."('Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry', by Mackey, p. 619, vol. 2)
Henry Wilson Coil used the dictionary definition of "religion", as per Funk and Wagnall's, in proving his case that Freemasonry is a religion:
“Definition of Religion. Funk and Wagnall’s ‘New Standard Dictionary’ (1941) defines Religion as: ‘A belief in an invisible superhuman power (or powers), conceived of after the analogy of the human spirit, on which (or whom) man regards himself as dependent, and to which (or whom) he thinks himself in some degree responsible, together with the feelings and practices which naturally flow from such belief.’ This comes close to defining Freemasonry as many writers have defined it saying that the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man is the whole story. Freemasonry certainly requires a belief in the existence of, and man’s dependence upon, a Supreme Being to whom he is responsible. What can a church add to that, except to bring into one fellowship those who have life feelings? That is exactly what the lodge does.”
"Does Freemasonry have a creed (I believe) or tenet (he holds) or dogma (I think) to which all members must adhere? Does Freemasonry continually teach and insist upon a creed, tenet, and dogma? Does it have meetings characterized by the practice of rites and ceremonies in and by which its creed, tenet, and dogma are illustrated by myths, symbols, and allegories? If Freemasonry were not religion, what would have to be done to make it such? Nothing would be necessary or at least nothing but to add more of the same. That brings us to the real crux of the matter; the difference between a lodge and a church is one of degree and not of kind." ('Coils' Masonic Encyclopedia')
I realize you would prefer that we use whatever you wish to call a definition of religion. However, since we know of no dictionary you have published, we find very little reason to accept your "definition" of religion over the more lucid definitions found in legitimate dictionaries.
Masonry presents a god of sorts that its members are to pray to; Masonry requires belief in a supreme being; Masonry requires belief in the immortality of the soul; Masonry presents a plan of salvation; Masonry engages in a regeneration ceremony, similar to those engaged in by the Ancient Mystery Religions; Masonry professes three articles of faith. Albert G. Mackey is regarded as being among the great, if not the greatest of all, Masonic authorities.
Lets read that last sentence again, shall we? Masonry professes three articles of faith. Albert G. Mackey is regarded as being among the great, if not the greatest of all, Masonic authorities.
Two facts about whether Freemasonry is a religion:
1. Its own recognized authority - perhaps the greatest Masonic authority of all time - Albert G. Mackey says it is, along with other Masonic scholars; and
2. Its Grand Lodges keep trying to say the opposite. Once again, somewhat ludicrous in light of the fact that virtually all of them listed Mackey's encyclopedia on their recommended reading lists.
Lets all read that last sentence again, shall we? Once again, somewhat ludicrous in light of the fact that virtually all of them listed Mackey's encyclopedia on their recommended reading lists.
Until then, here is one of the preferred statements about classifying Masonry as a religion and having a "religious nature", as the author here, John Weldon, points out:
Masonry claims it has the qualities of a religion but is still not a religion; or that it is religious but still not a religion. However, the latter point makes as much sense (as even Coil pointed out) as to say that a man has no intellect but is intellectual, or that he has no honor but is honorable. Religious is defined as "imbued with or adhering to religion or a religion."[41]
While it is possible for an organization to have a religious quality and yet not be a religion -- such as Christian groups that specialize in missions or research and have daily periods of prayer, Masonry is more than this. The religious quality of Christian organizations is based on Christianity while the religious quality of Masonry is based on Masonry itself, which qualifies it as a religion.
The (Southern Baptist) Study wrongly concluded that Masonry is not a religion. Nevertheless it was forced to confess that "many men make the Lodge their religion."[42]
The major issue in determining whether Masonry is a religion is to look at its demands on the candidate. Masonry requires the candidate to believe in God, obey Him, worship Him, seek His guidance, and so forth, which qualifies it as a religion. And, as I have already documented, Masonry claims its members will earn admittance to heaven based on personal character and good works. This also classifies the Lodge as a religion. In fact, any standard dictionary or encyclopedia definition of religion proves beyond doubt that Masonry is a religion.[43] Dr. Shildes Johnson is only one of many scholars of comparative religion who have concluded: "A comparison of the moral, allegorical, and symbolic teachings of Freemasonry with these definitions of a religion reveals that the lodge is a theistic, non-Christian, man-centered, and universal religion."[44]
All this is why numerous leading Masonic authorities have publicly confessed that Masonry is, in fact, a religion. For example:
Albert G. Mackey: "The religion of Masonry is cosmopolitan, universal...."[45]
Henry Wilson Coil: "Religion is espoused by the Masonic Ritual and required of the candidate"; and, "Freemasonry is undoubtedly religion"; and, "Many Freemasons make this flight [to heaven] with no other guarantee of a safe landing than their belief in the religion of Freemasonry" (emphasis added).[46]
Albert Pike: "Masonry...is the universal, eternal, immutable religion...."[47]
Joseph Fort Newton: "Everything in Masonry has reference to God, implies God, speaks of God, points and leads to God. Not a degree, not a symbol, not an obligation, not a lecture, not a charge but finds its meaning and derives its beauty from God the Great Architect, in whose temple all Masons are workmen."[48]
You better get some better masons in here. Your straw men just won't cut it anymore Widow's son. But keep thumping that square and compass. Lets meet on the wooden hammer, rest on the square, and hang out on the level.
Jean.
right, now you've called me a liar.
ReplyDeletelet's hear your reasons, WITHOUT any cut-and-paste action from anywhere else on the net.
i just want your words on how -I- am a liar.
you're becoming increasingly unpopular here "jean".
how dare you call me a liar without knowing a thing about me.
c.z.