The Secret History of Freemasonry

Have you ever wondered why we call ourselves "Free and Accepted Masons"? If you're confused, you're not alone. Many new Masons struggle to understand our history. But here's the thing: if we don't know where we came from, how can we understand our rituals and symbols?

In this edition of Daily Masonic Progress, we'll uncover the Early History of Freemasonry, explore the Medieval Period, and learn about our evolution into the Craft we know today

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The ancient roots of Freemasonry are inextricably linked to the early stages of human civilization. Its enigmatic symbols and profound teachings can be traced back to various epochs and civilizations, from the esoteric priesthood of ancient Egypt to the exiled Jews in Babylon.

The undeniable connection between these primordial cultures and the Freemasons is a testament to the timeless human quest for camaraderie, enlightenment, and spiritual growth that has propelled the advancement of society throughout the ages.

The authentic genesis of Freemasonry can be found in the Roman Collegia - fraternal organizations of individuals engaged in analogous vocations. These Collegia emerged as a result of the innate human longing for fellowship and community, which was especially pronounced in Rome.

In an empire where the needs of the individual were often subordinated to the collective good and economic imperatives, the Collegia offered a sense of camaraderie and purpose, not unlike the labour unions of the modern era.

The Roman Collegia served as an archetype for the evolution of Freemasonry, providing a paradigm for how individuals could unite in the pursuit of shared ideals and values. But how did the Collegia manage to survive and thrive in the face of imperial opposition and persecution?

As the Collegia grew in prominence and power, they faced opposition from the Roman emperors who attempted to abolish the right of free association. Despite edicts and persecutions, some Collegia, such as the Colleges of Architects, managed to survive. These architects were deemed too valuable to the state to be disbanded, and thus were allowed to continue their work, free from the restrictions that destroyed other Collegia.

The resilience and adaptability of the Colleges of Architects in the face of imperial hostility demonstrate the enduring power of human ingenuity and the indomitable spirit of those who seek to preserve and advance knowledge and skill.

But what secrets might the exiled builders of the Collegia have kept alive during the Dark Ages, waiting for the right moment to resurface?

In the gap between the fall of Rome and the rise of Gothic architecture, the fate of the builders' Collegia remains largely unknown. Some believe that the expelled builders found refuge on the island of Comacina in Lake Como, where they kept their artistic traditions and secrets alive for generations, waiting for the world to once again require the skills of the Master Builders.

The tantalizing possibility that the Collegia may have served as a hidden repository of ancient wisdom and technical prowess, preserving the flame of knowledge through the darkest periods of history, raises the question:

How did the Freemasons of the cathedral-building era differ from the architects and builders of today, and what can we learn from their example?

The history of the Freemasons during the cathedral-building ages up to the Reformation and their gradual decline is a complex tapestry that would require volumes to fully explore.

The Freemasons of this era were far more than mere architects and builders; they were the artists, leaders, mathematicians, and poets of their time. They jealously guarded their Order and were strict in their acceptance of Apprentices, requiring them to complete their "Master's Piece" before advancing to the rank of Master.

The Freemasons of old embodied a holistic approach to knowledge and skill, combining practical expertise with intellectual curiosity and artistic vision. But what drew scholarly men to seek membership in the Freemasons, and how did this change the nature of the Order?

In an age when education was a rare privilege, it was natural for thoughtful and scholarly men to seek membership among the Freemasons. However, these men would not have been content to practice operative masonry or serve a lengthy apprenticeship. Thus, a new class of "Accepted Masons" emerged, distinguished from the "operative Freemasons" who physically worked as builders.

The admission of these intellectuals and freethinkers into the Freemasons marked a significant shift in the Order's focus, from the practical arts of construction to the pursuit of knowledge, philosophy, and esoteric wisdom. This transformation set the stage for the emergence of Freemasonry as a powerful force for Enlightenment ideals and progressive thought in the centuries to come.

But how far back can we trace the origins of the "Accepted Masons," and what does this reveal about the evolving nature of Freemasonry?

The exact origins of the practice of accepting non-operative Masons into the fold are unknown, but references to it can be found as early as the Regius Poem of 1390, which speaks of Prince Edward in the 10th century as a master of "speculatyfe" Masonry.

As the centuries passed, more and more Accepted Masons joined the ranks of the Freemasons, drawn by the promise of fellowship and the allure of the unusual freedoms enjoyed by the Order's members. The growing presence of Accepted Masons within the Freemasons reflects the Order's gradual transition from a purely operative guild to a speculative and philosophical fraternity.

This shift mirrors the larger social and intellectual changes of the time, as the world moved from the Middle Ages into the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment.

What can the changing composition of the Freemasons tell us about the enduring appeal of the Order and its relevance to the modern world?

By 1670, the shift from operative to Accepted Masonry was well underway, as evidenced by the fact that 39 of the 49 names on the roll of the Lodge of Aberdeen were Accepted Masons.

This marked a significant turning point in the history of Freemasonry, setting the stage for its transformation from a guild of skilled craftsmen to a fraternal organization dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, brotherhood, and spiritual growth.

The ability of Freemasonry to adapt and evolve, while retaining its core values and principles, is a testament to the universal and timeless nature of its teachings. By embracing change and diversity, Freemasonry has remained relevant and vital for centuries, attracting individuals from all walks of life who seek to better themselves and the world around them.

In conclusion, the history of Freemasonry is a fascinating and complex tapestry that spans the entirety of human civilization. From its ancient roots in the Roman Collegia to its transformation into a speculative and philosophical fraternity, Freemasonry has played a significant role in shaping the course of human history.

By studying the origins and evolution of this enigmatic Order, we can gain valuable insights into the enduring human quest for knowledge, fellowship, and spiritual growth, and learn important lessons about the power of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.

As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern world, the teachings and example of Freemasonry remain as relevant and inspiring as ever, reminding us of the importance of unity, integrity, and the unending search for truth and wisdom.

Inspired by Carl H Claudy’s “Introduction to Freemasonry - Entered Apprentice”