Masonry Definition

Freemasonry is a unique system of morality, veiled by allegories and illustrated by symbols.It is a Universal, philanthropic, essentially philosophic, and progressive institution.

Freemasonry's goals are: The look for the truth and the study and practice of morality, virtues, and solidarity.

Masons work for humanity's spiritual and material improvement plus individual and social perfection. Its principles are the mutual tolerance, respect for others and oneself, and the absolute freedom of conscience allowing no room within its ranks for debates on politics or religion, well depicted in our motto freedom, equality, and fraternity. Its duty is to extend to all members of human kind, the fraternal bonds that unite all freemasons. The order recommends its members to spread its principles, consider working one of the essential mankind duties, either intellectual or manual.

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In Freemasonry, discretion is a fundamental principle that refers to the prudence and confidentiality with which Freemasons must handle the internal affairs of the Order. It does not mean absolute secrecy but rather a commitment to confidentiality regarding the Masonic tradition's rituals, symbols, and esoteric teachings. 

Discretion in Freemasonry has several key aspects: 

  1. Safeguarding Knowledge: Freemasons are obliged not to divulge details about the ceremonies, signs, words, and symbols taught in the various degrees. 
  2. Protection of the Identity of Brothers: The membership of another Freemason in the Order must not be revealed without their consent.
  3. Prudence in Public Life: Freemasons are expected to act with restraint and discretion in their conduct, avoiding ostentation or the misuse of their Masonic status for personal gain. 
  4. Respect for free conscience: Discretion entails not imposing Masonic beliefs or principles on others but allowing individuals to discover them themselves. 

In few words, discretion is a pillar of Freemasonry's ethics and functioning, ensuring that its teaching remains within an environment of respect, trust, and responsibility. 

As an institution, Freemasonry maintains a stance of political neutrality, meaning it does not support or promote specific political parties, ideologies, or figures. However, it recognizes politics's importance in improving society and fostering liberty, equality, and fraternity. 

Principles of Freemasonry Regarding Politics: 

  1. Non-partisan Interference: Freemasonry prohibits political debates within its lodges to avoid divisions among its members. Its goal is to unite people of different beliefs and ideologies under universal values. 
  2. Defense of Liberty and Human Rights: Although it does not take sides, Freemasonry has historically promoted principles such as democracy, social justice, and human rights. Many Freemasons have participated in independence movements, social reforms, and freedom struggles. 
  3. Citizenship Formation: Freemasonry seeks to develop its members into informed, critical, and responsible citizens capable of contributing to society's well-being in their respective fields of action. 
  4. Separation of religion and politics: Just as Freemasonry advocates freedom of conscience and respect for all beliefs, it also emphasizes the need to separate religion from political power. 

In conclusion: 

Although Freemasonry is not a political organization, it does influence the development of critical thinking, humanism, and social progress. Its purpose is for each individual Freemason to act ethically and with commitment in public life without the institution taking a partisan stance. 

Freemasonry has been the heir to ancient traditions, expressing itself in almost immutable forms for centuries. Doesn't Freemasonry run the risk of becoming a phenomenon of the past? Looking at it closely, we see that Freemasonry cannot be a thing of the past, given the evolution of contemporary thought that precedes it. On the philosophical and spiritual level, it is yesterday, today, and tomorrow, being "timeless" because it carries an eternal message. Its working methods refer to the physical and moral balance needed to reflect on the new challenges humanity faces due to the use of technology, climate change, and the decline of democracies, among other problems. 

Education is a fundamental pillar of Freemasonry because this organization is based on improving the individual through knowledge, reflection, and moral development. Freemasonry believes that personal and social progress is only possible through the enlightenment of the mind and spirit. 

Reasons why education is key in Freemasonry: 

  1. Search for the truth: Freemasonry teaches that knowledge brings us closer to the truth and understanding the world. Freemasons are encouraged to study, research, and ask questions for higher thinking. 
  2. Self-improvement and personal growth: Through constant learning, Freemasons seek to improve their character, behavior, and impact on society. 
  3. Fight against ignorance and fanaticism: Freemasonry views ignorance as an obstacle to freedom and progress. Education helps develop critical thinking and avoid dogmatism or manipulation. 
  4. Development of ethical and moral values: Masonic instruction is intellectual but also moral and philosophical, promoting principles such as tolerance, justice, fraternity, and respect. 
  5. Commitment to society's progress: An educated Mason not only improves himself but also contributes to the well-being of his community by promoting education and knowledge within it. 

Conclusion: 

Freemasonry considers education to be the path to freedom, self-knowledge, and the improvement of humanity. Therefore, it encourages its members to read, study, analyze, and debate as essential philosophical and social work tools. 

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