Freemasonry is surrounded by mysteries for many people. What happens to the Freemasons should remain secret. But is that really the case? What do the Freemasons do and why does Freemasonry seem such a mystery? And does it also have an effect that they now let people inside their gates and show what they do?
What does the Freemason stand for?
According to the website of Freemasonry in the Netherlands, the organization helps the consciously living man on a path of personal growth and development. This happens through the use of symbols and undergoing and experiencing rituals together. In this way, men can position themselves in relation to themselves, their fellow man and what they accept as a leadership force in their lives. The Freemasons see themselves (symbolically) as a rough stone that needs to be worked to take its place in society. Society is seen as a building to be completed.
Freemasons in films and books
Many people know Freemasonry from exciting books and films. The departments often have a nasty role to play. In films such as From Hell in which Jack the Ripper is chased and The Da Vinci Code in which the most bizarre things happen, Freemasonry does not exactly come off well.
Founded in 1717
Freemasonry was founded in England in 1717. Even the members themselves cannot say what exactly the essence of Freemasonry is in brief. Each member also experiences it in their own way. An important point within the organization is the slogan Know Yourself. For many members it is a way to search for yourself. Because the members know themselves better, they can also act better in society. Freemasonry is characterized by the fact that this quest always continues. This process is indicated by a symbol, namely that of the rough stone that must become a pure cubic. There is no such thing as being right or being right within the company. There is also no absolute given, as is often the case with belief. In any case, the idea is that everything is relative.
Basic degrees
Freemasonry has three positions for members. These are:
- Pupil
- Journeyman
- Master
How many Freemasons are there in the Netherlands?
There are approximately 6,000 Freemasons in the Netherlands spread over 144 lodges. Once a week (others once every two weeks or every month) they visit one of the lodges and participate in a ritual that is usually an initiation. A lecture is often also on the programme. This is referred to by the Freemasons as a building piece. The lectures are of great importance to the Freemasons. Very different themes are discussed. They range from morality and social developments to philosophy. Sometimes the members also talk about their own lives. The lodges do not discuss politics and religion.
Search for inner depth
People who join a Freemason’s lodge often look for inner depth. The building materials (lectures) are often the first reason to become a member. The rituals are often a side issue for most people, but that changes in many cases. Another reason to join a Masonic lodge is to connect with other people around the world. By the way, there is no international organization of Freemasons. Every country and every lodge is autonomous. However, because everyone in the world thinks the same about freedom, relativity and valuable things in life, members often quickly feel at home with other Freemasons around the world. Belonging to a group of like-minded people is often appealing.
Renewal
Although Freemasonry is centuries old, the organization keeps up with the times. Freemasonry has become much more accessible through the use of the internet. Moreover, older members have experienced Freemasons being persecuted during the Second World War. They often have difficulty with this openness.
Open day
Many lodges now also hold an open day. There, interested parties can see what the Freemasons want to convey and they can ask questions. Sometimes guests are even allowed to look into the temples. This is the shrine where the rituals are performed.
Freemason initiation is secret
How a Freemason is initiated is secret. The members do not discuss this with others. Anyone who wants to belong to a lodge must take steps themselves and register with a company. After registration there will be an interview with an investigation committee. Candidate and lodge must match each other. What is decisive is someone’s motivation to join and not whether someone has a high social position or a lot of money. Abroad, many lodges are elite and are only formed by academics. This is also the case in some Dutch university cities.
Women and Freemasonry
Masonic lodges are generally not very fond of female members. That is why there are only a few mixed lodges in the Netherlands where both men and women are welcome.
Freemasonry costs
Anyone who wants to become a member of a lodge must pay something. For example, a suit must first be purchased that the Freemasons wear during the Open Lodges. In addition, contributions must be paid. These amounts vary, but start at 250 euros per year. Freemasons also give to charities and the begging bowl is passed around after every meeting. You also have to pay for the so-called brother meals. A varying entrance fee is also charged.
The Church and Freemasonry
Church people and even ministers can also become members of the Order. There are even many members who are pastors. They often belong to a liberal church or movement. Some churches indicate that they reject Freemasonry. These include;
- Some orthodox Protestant churches,
- Baptists,
- Adventists
- Jehovah Witnesses
Promise: The Three Great Lights
When someone is accepted as a student of Freemasonry, he makes a promise to The Three Great Lights. These are the Bible, the compass and the square. The Bible is also referred to as The Volume of the Sacred law and is not a guideline, but a symbol of universal thoughts that can be of support in life’s quest. However, parts of the Bible are important for the symbols and rituals of the Freemasons. This includes the construction of the temple in Jerusalem by King Solomon. Other holy books can also be used in symbolism.