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98-595: The French Rite consists of seven degrees: three "blue" or craft degrees ( Entered Apprentice , Fellow Craft , and Master Mason ) and four additional Orders of Wisdom ( Ordres de Sagesse ), which were codified between 1781 and 1786 by the Grand Orient de France . It is characterized by its simplicity of ceremony, its emphasis on both tradition and progressive philosophical thinking, and its maintenance of practices from early speculative masonry that have been modified or abandoned in other jurisdictions. Historically significant,

196-411: A Grand Lodge or Grand Orient. There is no international, worldwide Grand Lodge that supervises all of Freemasonry; each Grand Lodge is independent, and they do not necessarily recognise each other as being legitimate. Lodges are found around the world and on all populated continents; however due to anti-Masonry and laws that effectively ban the tradition, it does not have a presence in every country. In

294-541: A Freemason to explore Masonry further through other degrees, administered separately from the basic Craft or "Blue Lodge" degrees described here, but generally having a similar structure and meetings. There is much diversity and little consistency in Freemasonry because each Masonic jurisdiction is independent and sets its own rules and procedures while Grand Lodges have limited jurisdiction over their constituent member Lodges, which are ultimately private clubs. The wording of

392-514: A Mason, he is qualified to join various "Concordant bodies" which offer additional degrees. These organisations are usually administered separately from the Grand Lodges who administer the Craft degrees. The extra degrees vary with locality and jurisdiction . In addition to these bodies, there are further organizations outside of the more traditional Rites of Freemasonry, that require an individual to be

490-714: A Master Mason before they can join (such as the Rosicrucian Society of England ). Throughout its history, Freemasonry has received criticism and opposition on religious and political grounds. The Catholic Church, some Protestant denominations, and certain Islamic countries or entities have expressed opposition to or banned membership in Free-Masonry. Opposition to Freemasonry is sometimes rooted in anti-Semitism or conspiracy theories , and Freemasons have historically been persecuted by authoritarian states. The Masonic lodge

588-450: A complete system of three degrees plus four orders, seven total, called a organized in two distinct categories: the three "blue" or craft degrees worked in symbolic lodges , and four additional philosophical degrees known as the Orders of Wisdom ( Ordres de Sagesse ) worked in chapters. This structure was formally established between 1784 and 1786 when the Grand Orient de France (GODF) codified

686-677: A decade, it had attracted between five and six hundred members, leading to the establishment of additional lodges including Goustaud's (run by an English lapidary ), the Louis d'Argent lodge, and the Bussy lodge (later renamed Aumont lodge when the Duke of Aumont became its Master). The earliest French masonic practices are documented in a 1737 police report commissioned by René Hérault, Lieutenant General of Police in Paris . The report, obtained through surveillance involving

784-493: A deviation from traditional masonic principles. From 1887 onward, physical trials and certain symbolic elements were gradually replaced by rationalist discourses. However, this period also saw the development of various paramasonic practices, including funeral ceremonies, spousal recognitions, adoptions, and white (public) ceremonies (Private white ceremonies and public white ceremonies). In 1922, new closing formulas were introduced that remain in use today. A significant revival of

882-585: A distinctive medal. This medal, gilt for Council members and Honorary Officers but silver-plated for proselytes, featured an ouroboros encircling a radiant triangle containing the name of God in Hebrew characters, with the number 5 at its summit. The Order's activities ceased around 1813, when Adam (President), Vérité (Surveillant), and the Cherubim (Council members) conducted their final meetings. The Order remained dormant for approximately 150 years until its revival through

980-645: A given country, state or geographical area (termed a jurisdiction ). There is no single overarching governing body that presides over worldwide Freemasonry; connections between different jurisdictions depend solely on mutual recognition. Estimates of the worldwide membership of Freemasonry in the early 21st century ranged from about two million to more than six million. The fraternity is administratively organised into independent Grand Lodges (or sometimes Grand Orients), each of which governs its own Masonic jurisdiction, which consists of subordinate (or constituent ) Lodges. The United Grand Lodge of England remains

1078-504: A lecture, which is usually on some aspect of Masonic history or ritual. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Lodge may hold a formal dinner , or festive board , sometimes involving toasting and song. The bulk of Masonic ritual consists of degree ceremonies. Candidates for Freemasonry are progressively initiated into Freemasonry, first in the degree of Entered Apprentice . At some later time, in separate ceremonies, they will be passed to

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1176-541: A police informant known as Mademoiselle Carton, provides the first detailed description of French masonic ceremony. This document reveals that early French masonic ritual closely followed English " Premiere Grand Lodge " practices, including specific elements such as: The examination of candidates left to their reflection in a darkened chamber for about an hour, The removal of metals and partial disrobing and other ritualistic practices still used to this day. Despite opposition from both civil and religious authorities , including

1274-518: A police ordinance in 1737 and Pope Clement XII 's bull " In Eminenti " in 1738, French Freemasonry continued to grow. By 1742, there were twenty-two lodges in Paris and a similar number in the provinces. A crucial period in the development of the French Rite began with the reformation of French Freemasonry in 1772-1773 and the formation of the Grand Orient de France (GODF). This reorganization established

1372-547: A precedent for "shared jurisdiction" between mainstream and Prince Hall Grand Lodges, effectively modifying the traditional interpretation of Exclusive Jurisdiction. By 2024, most U.S. Grand Lodges have recognized their Prince Hall counterparts, establishing a new norm where two Grand Lodges can legitimately operate within the same geographical area, provided they maintain mutual recognition and amity. The evolution of this practice demonstrates how traditional Masonic principles can adapt to accommodate social progress while maintaining

1470-458: A repository of masonic knowledge and a center for ritual research and development within the French Rite tradition. The Orders of Wisdom experienced a significant decline in the early 19th century when many chapters transitioned to the newly established Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite . They remained largely dormant until their revival in the late 20th century. In 1999, the GODF formally reconstituted

1568-611: A unique position within the French Rite system, created not as a degree for conferral but as a scholarly and administrative body. In the 1780s, as the Chamber of Degrees ( Chambre des Grades ) worked zealously to codify the symbolic grades and select high degree rituals, they systematically selected, eliminated, and merged various degrees to establish the four Orders of the French Rite: Élu, Écossais, Chevalier de l'Épée, and Rose-Croix. During this process, numerous grades were set aside, leading to

1666-405: A vote of 39 to 7. The integration established a complete system of seven degrees: the three craft degrees plus four Orders of Wisdom (Élu, Écossais, Chevalier d'Orient, and Rose-Croix ). The Orders were carefully structured to provide a philosophical progression while avoiding excessive "sacerdotal" elements. The French Revolution and subsequent Napoleonic period brought significant challenges to

1764-508: Is 18, but university lodges are given dispensations to initiate undergraduates below that age.) Additionally, most Grand Lodges require a candidate to declare a belief in a Supreme Being (although every candidate must interpret this condition in his own way, as all religious discussion is commonly prohibited). In a few cases, the candidate may be required to be of a specific religion. The form of Freemasonry most common in Scandinavia (known as

1862-476: Is Regular and what is Irregular (and the definitions do not necessarily agree between Grand Lodges). Essentially, every Grand Lodge will hold that its landmarks (its requirements, tenets and rituals) are Regular, and judge other Grand Lodges based on those. If the differences are significant, one Grand Lodge may declare the other "Irregular" and withdraw or withhold recognition. The most commonly shared rules for Recognition (based on Regularity) are those given by

1960-457: Is a historically African-American branch of Freemasonry that maintains its own separate Grand Lodge system parallel to the state Grand Lodge system. Together, these two systems - the conservative Grand Lodges and Prince Hall Grand Lodges make up for a total of 97 UGLE recognized Grand Lodges, sharing jurisdictions in the United States. They represent the main bodies of Masonic governance in

2058-664: Is a system of 33 degrees, including the three Blue Lodge degrees administered by a local or national Supreme Council. This system is popular in North America, South America and in Continental Europe . In America, the York Rite , with a similar range, administers three orders of Masonry, namely the Royal Arch , Cryptic Masonry , and Knights Templar . In Britain, separate bodies administer each order. Freemasons are encouraged to join

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2156-521: Is in amity with the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Connecticut, the principle of Exclusive Jurisdiction does not apply, and other Grand Lodges may recognise both. Likewise, the five distinct kinds of lodges in Germany have nominally united under one Grand Lodge in order to obtain international recognition. The concept of Exclusive Jurisdiction has been significantly challenged in the United States with

2254-456: Is not allowed. There are many reasons one Grand Lodge will withhold or withdraw recognition from another, but the two most common are Exclusive Jurisdiction and Regularity . Exclusive Jurisdiction is a concept whereby normally only one Grand Lodge will be recognised in any geographical area. If two Grand Lodges claim jurisdiction over the same area, the other Grand Lodges will have to choose between them, and they may not all decide to recognise

2352-434: Is progressively taught the meanings of the symbols of Freemasonry and entrusted with grips, signs, and words to signify to other members that he has been so initiated. The degrees are part allegorical morality play and part lecture. These three degrees form Craft (or Blue Lodge) Freemasonry, and members of any of these degrees are known as Free-Masons , Freemasons or Masons . Once the Craft degrees have been conferred upon

2450-424: Is scattered, Master's tools, Future Justice over vengeance, Discovery of Murderers, Moral transformation, Sword symbolism Recovery of what was Lost, Completion of thirds degree legend cycle, Sacred geometry, Temple reconstruction Babylonian exile themes Temple rebuilding Sword and Trowel Liberty and duty Universal philosophy Ultimate truth seeking Humanitarian ideals Masonic synthesis The Fifth Order occupies

2548-476: Is that each candidate must be "free and of good reputation". The question of freedom, a standard feudal requirement of mediaeval guilds, is nowadays one of independence: the object is that every Mason should be a proper and responsible person. Thus, each Grand Lodge has a standard minimum age, varying greatly and often subject to dispensation in particular cases. (For example, in England the standard minimum age to join

2646-453: Is the annual installation of the Master of the Lodge and his appointed or elected officers. In some jurisdictions, an Installed Master elected, obligated, and invested to preside over a Lodge, is valued as a separate rank with its own secrets and distinctive title and attributes; after each full year in the chair the Master invests his elected successor and becomes a Past Master with privileges in

2744-424: Is the basic organisational unit of Freemasonry. The Lodge meets regularly and conducts the usual formal business of any small organisation (approve minutes , elect new members, appoint officers and take their reports, consider correspondence, bills and annual accounts, organise social and charitable events, etc.). In addition to such business, the meeting may perform a ceremony to confer a Masonic degree or receive

2842-652: Is the dominant rite in Belgium, Luxembourg, and is practiced in South and North America , Southern and Central Europe, and Africa , demonstrating its continued vitality and adaptability to different cultural contexts. After the 1877 Great Schism , the Grand College of Rites of the Grand Orient de France decided on a new reform. This took place in 1879 and removed from the French Rite any formulas with religious connotations (such as

2940-513: Is the oldest fraternity in the world and among the oldest continued organizations in history. Modern Freemasonry broadly consists of two main recognition groups: Regular Freemasonry , which insists that a “volume of sacred law”, such as the Bible , the Quran , or other religious scripture be open in a working lodge, that every member professes belief in a Supreme Being , that no women be admitted, and that

3038-432: Is upon candidates to ask to join; while they may be encouraged to ask, they may not be invited. Once the initial inquiry is made, a formal application may be proposed and seconded or announced in open Lodge and a more or less formal interview usually follows. If the candidate wishes to proceed, references are taken up during a period of notice so that members may enquire into the candidate's suitability and discuss it. Finally,

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3136-421: The Grand Orient de France ) began a new reform initiative in an attempt to return the rite to its roots after the sum of additions and suppressions which had rendered it hard-to-understand and soulless. The definitive version — known as the "Groussier French Rite" — was completed in 1955 under the authority of Paul Chevalier. In the 1960s and 70s, several masons such as René Guilly sought the original essence of

3234-765: The Grande Loge Mixte de France and the Loge Nationale Française. It is also the official rite of the Grand Orient of Poland . In 1973, the GODF issued the patent of the French Rite to the Grande Loge Féminine de France , and so this jurisdiction developed a version of the Rite adapted to its specific needs. In the Grande Loge Nationale Française , it is worked by approximately 10–15% of the lodges. It has spread to Belgium, Luxembourg, Brazil,

3332-609: The Holy Royal Arch , which is linked to Mark Masonry in Scotland and Ireland, but completely separate in England. In England, the Royal Arch is closely associated with the Craft, automatically having many Grand Officers in common, including H.R.H the Duke of Kent as both Grand Master of the Craft and First Grand Principal of the Royal Arch. The English Knights Templar and Cryptic Masonry share

3430-537: The Landmarks of Freemasonry , which elude any universally accepted definition. Candidates for Freemasonry will usually have met the most active members of the Lodge they are joining before being elected for initiation. The process varies among Grand Lodges, but in modern times interested people often look up a local Lodge through the Internet and will typically be introduced to a Lodge social function or open evening. The onus

3528-544: The Lodge of Edinburgh (Mary's Chapel) No. 1 in Scotland show a continuity from an operative lodge in 1598 to a modern speculative Lodge. It is reputed to be the oldest Masonic Lodge in the world. Alternatively, Thomas De Quincey in his work titled Rosicrucians and Freemasonry put forward the theory that suggested that Freemasonry may have been an outgrowth of Rosicrucianism . The theory had also been postulated in 1803 by German professor; J. G. Buhle . The first Grand Lodge,

3626-585: The Nordic countries , the Swedish Rite is dominant; a variation of it is also used in parts of Germany. Freemasonry describes itself as a "beautiful system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols". The symbolism is mainly, but not exclusively, drawn from the tools of stonemasons – the square and compasses , the level and plumb rule, the trowel , the rough and smooth ashlars , among others. Moral lessons are attributed to each of these tools, although

3724-419: The Swedish Rite ), for example, accepts only Christians. At the other end of the spectrum, "Liberal" or Continental Freemasonry , exemplified by the Grand Orient de France , does not require a declaration of belief in any deity and accepts atheists (the cause of the distinction from the rest of Freemasonry). During the ceremony of initiation, the candidate is required to undertake an obligation, swearing on

3822-588: The United Grand Lodge of England . The Grand Lodge of Ireland and the Grand Lodge of Scotland were formed in 1725 and 1736, respectively, although neither persuaded all of the existing lodges in their countries to join for many years. The earliest known American lodges were in Pennsylvania . The collector for the port of Pennsylvania, John Moore, wrote of attending lodges there in 1715, two years before

3920-737: The United States , Masonic membership is organized in two systems, first through 51 Conservative Grand Lodges - one for each state plus the District of Columbia . While these Grand Lodges once boasted over 4 million members in 1957, membership has declined sharply. According to the Masonic Service Association of North America, current combined membership across these jurisdictions stands at approximately 875,000 members. Additionally, there are 46 Prince Hall Grand Lodges in amity with UGLE, operating across various U.S. states. Prince Hall Masonry

4018-524: The second world war from 33,000 in 1960 to 53,000 in 2023. Relations between Grand Lodges are determined by the concept of Recognition . Each Grand Lodge maintains a list of other Grand Lodges that it recognises. When two Grand Lodges recognise and are in Masonic communication with each other, they are said to be in amity , and the brethren of each may visit each other's Lodges and interact Masonically. When two Grand Lodges are not in amity, inter-visitation

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4116-404: The "craft" by being progressively "initiated", "passed" and "raised" into the three degrees of Craft, or Blue Lodge Masonry. During these three rituals, the candidate is progressively taught the Masonic symbols, and entrusted with grips or tokens, signs, and words to signify to other Masons which degrees he has taken. The dramatic allegorical ceremonies include explanatory lectures and revolve around

4214-540: The 1950s, aiming to recover the earliest forms of French masonic practice. This variant is characterized by: The RFT is practiced primarily within the Loge Nationale Française and certain lodges of the Grande Loge Traditionnelle et Symbolique Opéra , representing what its practitioners consider the most authentic form of early speculative masonry. Adopted by the Grand Orient de France in 2002,

4312-453: The 19th and 20th centuries. While there exist many variations, the major ones are: The Groussier variant, developed by Arthur Groussier between 1938 and 1955, represents a significant attempt to restore traditional elements to the French Rite while adapting them to modern sensibilities. As Grand Master of the Grand Orient de France from 1925 to 1945, Groussier sought to counter the extreme rationalist simplification that had characterized

4410-470: The 2 brief blows and one longer blow, the moving of the right foot) which the "Antient" lodge later changed. Entered Apprentice Freemasonry (sometimes spelled Free-Masonry ) or simply Masonry includes various fraternal organisations that trace their origins to the local guilds of stonemasons that, from the end of the 14th century, regulated the qualifications of stonemasons and their interaction with authorities and clients. Freemasonry

4508-516: The AASR's additional degrees, particularly the 30th (Kadosh) and 33rd degrees, led many chapters to transition to the Scottish Rite system. While the French Rite remained predominant in blue lodges, its Orders of Wisdom entered a period of decline that would last for nearly 150 years. The nineteenth century brought significant philosophical and structural changes to the French Rite. Between 1849 and 1877,

4606-656: The Council of the Order). Today, the Fifth Order maintains its original purpose of researching and deepening understanding of the grades at the "summit" of the Rite. The rituals resulting from the Grand Chapitre Général's work demonstrate that masonic erudition can be practiced effectively in both modest and grand settings - "in a Romanesque chapel as well as in a Gothic cathedral." This unique institution continues to serve as both

4704-513: The Council's dean and the other by a Council member. A class of proselytes, limited to 81 members selected from the Metropolitan Chapter, operated alongside the Council. These proselytes received instruction only in the knowledge and light contained within the first eight series. The Order's regalia, defined in the April 29, 1808 session, consisted of a white moiré ribbon with gold edges, bearing

4802-542: The French Chapter of the French National Lodge under René Guilly-Désaguliers's leadership. The Grand Orient de France later adopted this initiative with a new approach, aiming to standardize and create coherence in the pathways of an obedience whose blue lodges predominantly practiced the French Rite (all were administratively created under this designation before some requested authorization to cumulate rites from

4900-648: The French Rite and made a new attempt to reanimate its initiatory and symbolic character. René Guilly was the prime force behind the creation of a chapter of the Traditional French Rite, a chapter which still exists today within the National French Lodge. In 1974, another chapter was formed in Paris on the instigation of a member of the Traditional and Symbolic Grand Lodge of the Opéra. Through its offshoots,

4998-537: The French Rite began under Arthur Groussier (1863-1957), who was initiated in 1885 at the Lodge L'Émancipation. As Grand Master of the GODF from 1925 to 1945, Groussier led a restoration of the rite's symbolic and initiatic character. His revised version of the ritual, adopted by the Council of the Order in 1938 and widely distributed in 1955, reintroduced many traditional elements while adapting them to contemporary sensibilities. The late twentieth century saw renewed interest in

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5096-516: The French Rite maintains several distinctive features from early speculative masonry, including the placement of both Wardens in the West and the use of three large candlesticks in specific positions within the lodge. These characteristics, along with its historical development and philosophical orientation, make it a unique repository of early masonic practices while remaining adaptable to contemporary societal evolution. The French Rite traces its origins to

5194-401: The French Rite to their specific needs and philosophical orientations: While these variants share common roots, they differ in several key aspects: These variations reflect the French Rite's adaptability while maintaining its essential character as one of the oldest and most historically significant masonic ritual systems. The continued evolution and adaptation of these variants demonstrates

5292-600: The French Rite underwent several major transformations, notably in 1877 with the removal of religious requirements, establishing the principle of absolute freedom of conscience. Today, it exists in several variants, including the Groussier Rite, the Modern French Rite, and the Philosophical French Rite, each reflecting different approaches to masonic tradition and philosophy. Unlike many other masonic rites,

5390-615: The French Rite's development. While masonic activity was curtailed during the Revolution, the GODF resumed operations under the Consulate and Empire , experiencing what some historians describe as a "golden age." However, this period also saw the beginning of the rite's transformation. The emergence of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (AASR) in 1804 presented a significant challenge to the French Rite's system of high degrees. The attractiveness of

5488-437: The French Rite's vitality and relevance to contemporary masonic practice, while their coexistence illustrates the rite's capacity to accommodate different approaches to masonic tradition and philosophy. In continental freemasonry, 80% of lodges practising the French Rite belong to the Grand Orient of France, but it is also practised by some lodges in other jurisdictions such as the Grande Loge Traditionnelle et Symbolique Opéra ,

5586-771: The Grand Chapitre Général, restoring the complete seven-degree system to active practice. Today, the Grand Chapitre Général oversees more than 200 Chapters and 5,000 members. It maintains close relationships with other chapter structures, as evidenced by the signing of the Lisbon Charter in 2011 by 27 Grand Chapters and the activities of the Ramsay Committee. The French Rite exists today in several major forms, each representing different approaches to masonic tradition and philosophy. These variants emerged through various historical developments and reforms, particularly during

5684-467: The Grand Lodge of London and Westminster, later called the Grand Lodge of England , was founded on St John's Day , 24 June 1717, when four existing London Lodges met for a joint dinner. Over the next decade, most of the existing Lodges in England joined the new regulatory body, which itself entered a period of self-publicity and expansion. New lodges were created, and the fraternity began to grow. During

5782-583: The Lodge and Grand Lodge. In other jurisdictions, the grade is not recognised, and no inner ceremony conveys new secrets during the installation of a new Master of the Lodge. Most Lodges have some sort of social functions, allowing members, their partners, and non-Masonic guests to meet openly. Often coupled with these events is the discharge of every Mason's and Lodge's collective obligation to contribute to charity. This occurs at many levels, including in annual dues, subscriptions, fundraising events, Lodges and Grand Lodges. Masons and their charities contribute for

5880-427: The Lodge takes an officially secret ballot on each application before a candidate is either initiated or rejected. The exact number of adverse ballots ("blackballs") required to reject a candidate varies between Masonic jurisdictions. As an example, the United Grand Lodge of England only requires a single "blackball", while the Grand Lodge of New York requires three. A minimum requirement of every body of Freemasons

5978-750: The Mark Grand Lodge offices and staff at Mark Masons Hall. The Ancient and Accepted Rite (similar to the Scottish Rite), requires a member to proclaim the Trinitarian Christian faith, and is administered from Duke Street in London. Conversely, the Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia is a fully independent esoteric organization that requires members be United Grand Lodge of England Master Masons . In

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6076-554: The Netherlands, Greece, Spain and Switzerland (and formerly in Louisiana), although outside France it is mainly a minority Rite (especially found in lodges founded by the Grand Orient of France). The French Rite is often felt to be the most 'lay' rite of Freemasonry practiced within the Grand Orient de France , an adogmatic jurisdiction which removed such traditional elements as the Volume of

6174-407: The Philosophical French Rite represents a modern synthesis attempting to combine historical authenticity with contemporary philosophical perspectives. Its distinctive features include: This variant reflects the Grand Orient's effort to create a version of the rite that speaks to contemporary societal concerns while preserving essential masonic traditions. Different masonic jurisdictions have adapted

6272-543: The Premiere Grand Lodge had adopted. As an insult, the self proclaimed "Antient Grand Lodge" coined the term "modern" to designate the Premiere Grand Lodge (historians now use Premiere Grand Lodge and Antient Grand Lodge – to differentiate the two bodies). These two Grand Lodges vied for supremacy until the Premiere Grand Lodge made a compromise with the antient Grand Lodge to return to a ritual that worked for both Grand Lodges. They re-united on 27 December 1813 to form

6370-576: The Sacred Law and all mention of the Grand Architect of the Universe from the rite. In the form practiced by the regular Grande Loge Nationale Française , it is the rite most similar to that of the 1717 Premier Grand Lodge [of London], one of the possible founding rites of Freemasonry, perpetuating several fundamentals (such as the position of columns J and B and of the candlesticks around the lodge carpet,

6468-629: The United Grand Lodge of England in 1929: Blue Lodges, known as Craft Lodges in the United Kingdom, offer only the three traditional degrees. In most jurisdictions, the rank of past or installed master is also conferred in Blue/Craft Lodges. Master Masons are able to extend their Masonic experience by taking further degrees, in appendant or other bodies whether or not approved by their own Grand Lodge. The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite

6566-400: The United States, though both have experienced significant membership declines since their mid-20th century peaks. Grand Orient de France , the largest jurisdiction in Continental or Liberal Freemasonry in terms of membership, is over 53,000 members spread across approximately 1,381 lodges for an average of 38 members per Lodges. The Grand Orient de France has been growing in membership since

6664-414: The assignment is by no means consistent. The meaning of the symbolism is taught and explored through ritual, and in lectures and articles by individual Masons who offer their personal insights and opinions. According to the scholar of Western esotericism Jan A. M. Snoek: "the best way to characterize Freemasonry is in terms of what it is not, rather than what it is". All Freemasons begin their journey in

6762-423: The complete French Rite system. In 1999, the GODF formally reconstituted the Grand Chapitre Général, restoring the original system of three degrees and four Orders of Wisdom. Today, the French Rite exists in several forms: The French Rite remains the predominant form of Masonry within the GODF and French Freemasonry as a whole, in the GODF is it practiced by over 900 lodges. It has expanded beyond France's borders it

6860-403: The construction of the Temple of Solomon , and the artistry and death of the chief architect, Hiram Abiff . The degrees are those of "Entered apprentice", "Fellowcraft" and "Master Mason". While many different versions of these rituals exist, with various lodge layouts and versions of the Hiramic legend, each version is recognizable to any Freemason from any jurisdiction. In some jurisdictions,

6958-538: The course of the 18th century, as aristocrats and artists crowded out the craftsmen originally associated with the organization, Freemasonry became fashionable throughout Europe and the American colonies . Between 1730 and 1750, the Grand Lodge endorsed several significant changes that some Lodges could not endorse. A rival Grand Lodge was formed on 17 July 1751, which called itself the " Antient Grand Lodge of England " to signify that, in their opinion, these lodges were maintaining older traditions and rejected changes that

7056-480: The creation of a fifth Order within the Grand Metropolitan Chapter of the Grand Orient de France . This Order was established as a venue for conversation, study, and ritual practice, containing "all physical and metaphysical grades." The extensive collection of 81 degrees was methodically organized into nine series: the first series encompassing the most primitive grades (such as Intendant of Buildings);

7154-487: The degree of Fellowcraft ; and then raised to the degree of Master Mason . In each of these ceremonies, the candidate must first take the new obligations of the degree, and is then entrusted with secret knowledge including passwords, signs and grips ( secret handshakes ) confined to his new rank. Although these symbols and gestures are nominally secret, they are readily found in public sources, including those published by Masonic organizations themselves. Another ceremony

7252-401: The discussion of religion and politics do not take place within the lodge; and Continental Freemasonry , which consists of the jurisdictions that have removed some, or all, of these restrictions. The basic, local organisational unit of Freemasonry is the Lodge . These private Lodges are usually supervised at the regional level (usually coterminous with a state, province, or national border) by

7350-457: The first evidence of ceremonial regalia. There is no clear mechanism by which these local trade organisations became today's Masonic Lodges. The earliest rituals and passwords known, from operative lodges around the turn of the 17th–18th centuries, show continuity with the rituals developed in the later 18th century by accepted or speculative Masons, as those members who did not practice the physical craft gradually came to be known. The minutes of

7448-406: The fundamental aims of regular Freemasonry. Some jurisdictions have formalized this arrangement through written agreements that specifically outline the terms of shared jurisdiction. Regularity is a concept based on adherence to Masonic Landmarks , the basic membership requirements, tenets and rituals of the craft. Each Grand Lodge sets its own definition of what these landmarks are, and thus what

7546-448: The increasing recognition of Prince Hall Grand Lodges , a branch of Freemasonry created for African Americans. Historically, many "mainstream" or conservative U.S. Grand Lodges refused to recognize Prince Hall Grand Lodges operating in their states, citing Exclusive Jurisdiction. However, this began to change in 1989 when the Grand Lodge of Connecticut extended recognition to its Prince Hall counterpart. This initial recognition created

7644-518: The introduction of speculative Freemasonry in France around 1725. As recorded by Jérôme de Lalande in his "Mémoire historique sur la Maçonnerie" (1777), the first documented lodge was established in Paris by English Freemasons, including "Milord Dervent-Waters, the chevalier Maskelyne, d'Heguerty, and several other Englishmen." This lodge met at Hurre's tavern, an English establishment in the Rue des Boucheries. Within

7742-419: The largest Masonic jurisdiction worldwide. However, its membership has declined dramatically - from about 500,000 members in the 1960s to approximately 175,000 in 2021. The organization is structured into various Provincial Grand Lodges at the local level. Similarly, the Grand Lodge of Ireland has experienced a steep decline, with membership falling from 100,000 in 1960 to around 19,000 members currently. In

7840-468: The latter led to the creation of a sovereign college of the Traditional French Rite, within a multi-jurisdiction framework. The French Rite is practiced in Conservative Freemasonry (recognized by UGLE ), it is the most practiced rite by the Grande Loge Nationale Française (recognized by UGLE) it is also practiced by many conservative grand Lodges around the world. The French Rite consists of

7938-547: The law. In most Lodges, the oath or obligation is taken on a Volume of Sacred Law , whichever book of divine revelation is appropriate to the religious beliefs of the individual brother (usually the Bible in the Anglo-American tradition). In Progressive continental Freemasonry, books other than scripture are permissible, a cause of rupture between Grand Lodges. Since the middle of the 19th century, Masonic historians have sought

8036-536: The main themes of each degree are illustrated by tracing boards . These painted depictions of Masonic themes are exhibited in the lodge according to which degree is being worked and are explained to the candidate to illustrate the legend and symbolism of each degree. The idea of Masonic brotherhood probably descends from a 16th-century legal definition of a "brother" as one who has taken an oath of mutual support to another. Accordingly, Masons swear at each degree to support and protect their brethren unless they have broken

8134-478: The manner they find most satisfying. Some will simply enjoy the dramatics, or the management and administration of the lodge, others will explore the history, ritual and symbolism of the craft, others will focus their involvement on their Lodge's sociopolitical side, perhaps in association with other lodges, while still others will concentrate on the lodge's charitable functions. Grand Lodges and Grand Orients are independent and sovereign bodies that govern Masonry in

8232-448: The ninth series encompassing alchemical, hermetic, and other grades. The Fifth Order developed a simple but effective structure, which, while incomplete in 1784, became fully active by 1808. Its governance centered on the Council of Nine, composed of Chapter members holding the highest grades, supported by three honorary officers. The Order's documents were secured in an ark at the Council's meeting place, protected by two keys - one held by

8330-519: The origins of the movement in a series of similar documents known as the Old Charges , dating from the Regius Poem in about 1425 to the beginning of the 18th century. Alluding to the membership of a lodge of operative masons , they relate it to a mythologised history of the craft, the duties of its grades, and the manner in which oaths of fidelity are to be taken on joining. The 15th century also sees

8428-466: The principle of collective sovereignty of blue lodges and introduced the election of Worshipful Masters by secret ballot, marking a significant departure from previous practices. Between 1781 and 1786, the GODF undertook the systematic codification of ritual practices. This work was primarily led by Alexandre-Louis Roëttiers de Montaleau (1748-1808), who was initiated in 1774 at the Lodge of Friendship in Paris. The Chamber of Degrees (Chambre des Grades)

8526-554: The putative formation of the first Grand Lodge in London. The Grand Lodge of England appointed a Provincial Grand Master for North America in 1731, based in Pennsylvania, leading to the creation of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania . In Canada, Erasmus James Philipps became a Freemason while working on a commission to resolve boundaries in New England and, in 1739, he became provincial Grand Master for Nova Scotia ; Philipps founded

8624-403: The reference to the Grand Architect of the Universe and the duties towards God). An 1886 commission headed by Louis Aimable concluded an adogmatic form of the rite, giving it a hint of positivism — after this date the rite is known as the "Aimable French Rite". It underwent less important reforms in 1907, and then remained unchanged until 1938. In that year Arthur Groussier (Grand Master of

8722-533: The relief of need in many fields, such as education, health and old age. Private Lodges form the backbone of Freemasonry, with the sole right to elect their own candidates for initiation as Masons or admission as joining Masons, and sometimes with exclusive rights over residents local to their premises. There are non-local Lodges where Masons meet for wider or narrower purposes, such or in association with some hobby, sport, Masonic research, business, profession, regiment or college. The rank of Master Mason also entitles

8820-404: The religious volume sacred to his personal faith to do good as a Mason. In the course of three degrees, Masons will promise to keep the secrets of their degree from lower degrees and outsiders, as far as practicality and the law permit, and to support a fellow Mason in distress. There is formal instruction as to the duties of a Freemason, but on the whole, Freemasons are left to explore the craft in

8918-460: The rite underwent a fundamental transformation regarding its relationship with religion . In 1849, the GODF had adopted principles requiring belief in God and the immortality of the soul. However, in 1877, these requirements were removed, establishing the principle of absolute freedom of conscience. This decision led to a break in relations with the United Grand Lodge of England , which viewed this change as

9016-417: The rite's evolution during the late 19th century. Notable features include: The Groussier version remains the most widely practiced form within the Grand Orient de France , representing a balance between traditional masonic symbolism and contemporary philosophical approaches. The Traditional French Rite ( Rite Français Traditionnel or RFT) emerged from research conducted by René Guilly and colleagues in

9114-519: The ritual, the number of officers present, the layout of the meeting room, etc. varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Almost all officers of a Lodge are elected or appointed annually. Every Masonic Lodge has a Master, two Wardens, a treasurer and a secretary. There is also always a Tyler , or outer guard, outside the door of a working Lodge, who may be paid to secure its privacy. Other offices vary between jurisdictions. Each Masonic Lodge exists and operates according to ancient principles known as

9212-419: The rituals and established the Grand Chapitre Général. Transition from darkness to light, Rough ashlar symbolism, Cardinal virtues, First masonic tools, Initial moral instruction, Passivity, Past, Learning and Silence Liberal arts and sciences, Geometry and architecture, Letter G symbolism, Perfect ashlar, Five senses, Activity, Seeking to know thyself, Participation, Present Third degree legend, Gather what

9310-402: The same one. (In 1849, for example, the Grand Lodge of New York split into two rival factions, each claiming to be the legitimate Grand Lodge. Other Grand Lodges had to choose between them until the schism was healed. ) Exclusive Jurisdiction can be waived when the two overlapping Grand Lodges are themselves in amity and agree to share jurisdiction. For example, since the Grand Lodge of Connecticut

9408-606: The second series containing the Élu grades; the third series comprising intermediate grades without posterity; the fourth and fifth series consisting of Scottish grades that served as models for the Second Order; the sixth series including chivalric grades; the seventh series providing models for the Rose-Croix; the eighth series containing grades like Knight of the Temple and Knight of the Sun; and

9506-592: The spirit of brotherhood and hopefulness, however, Freemasons usually presume that clandestine lodges may nonetheless exist in those countries in which it is banned, even if they may not actually exist. The degrees of Freemasonry are the three grades of medieval craft guilds : Entered Apprentice , Journeyman or Fellow of the craft (now called either “Fellowcraft” or “Fellow Craft” in English speaking jurisdictions, and “Companion” in non-English speaking jurisdictions), and Master Mason . The candidate of these three degrees

9604-477: Was established to harmonize ritual practices while preserving their "ancient purity." This effort culminated in the adoption of standardized rituals for the three craft degrees in July and August 1785. A significant development occurred in 1784 when a group of 80 Brothers, including 27 GODF Officers, created the Grand Chapitre Général du Rite Français . This body was formally integrated into the GODF on February 17, 1786, by

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