The very word "freemason", or "freemason" (franc-maçon), which is one and the same, literally translated from French as "free mason". The philosophy of this ethical movement, which emerged in the 18th century, is based on monotheistic religions.
Freemasonry originally emerged as a closed organization, inaccessible to outsiders. The Brotherhood is made up of Grand Masonic Lodges, each with its own jurisdiction. Regular lodges observe Masonic Landmarks, i.e. unchanging commandments and principles of Freemasonry. On the other hand, the interpretation of these principles differs within each specific lodge: different Masonic jurisdictions adhere to their own ideas and landmarks. Lodges that do not respect the Landmarks are considered irregular.
Freemasons use allegories and metaphorical symbols to express their ethical and moral system. Freemasons often refer to the legends associated with the construction of the Temple of Solomon. According to some theories, Freemasonry dates back to the Rosicrucian Order or Templar Orders, but according to the most common version, the brotherhood was founded by medieval bricklayers.
Modern freemasonry is widespread throughout the world and is represented in various forms. The total number of Freemasons is estimated at about six million. Historically, only a free mature man could become a Freemason and only on the recommendation of one of the members of the brotherhood. Mixed Freemasonry is now becoming widespread, although for a time lodges that accepted women into their circles were considered irregular. Moreover, recently women have been creating their own lodges, existing on principles similar to the rituals of the "male" Anglo-Saxon lodges.
Well-known figures of world politics and art nowadays do not hide their belonging to Freemasonry. Among the famous members of this secret society, one can recall Winston Churchill, Henry Ford, Mark Twain, Ben Franklin. Today, Masons are less influential and more secretive, but the fraternity remains one of the most famous in the world. There are a lot of speculations and assumptions around him, Masons are credited with "world domination" and "secret conspiracies", but the key ethical idea of Freemasonry is a harmless belief in a supreme being who controls the course of events.
Opponents of Freemasonry accuse them of involvement in occult practices and excessive politicization. Churches of all denominations criticize Masons, and this is natural: their moral convictions and spiritual views often come into disagreement.
Modern Freemasons are increasingly differentiating, but one practice remains unchanged: this is the "method of induction." It lies in the fact that for initiation into Masons, a person must be recommended by one of the already established members of the society. Members of the organization observe certain greeting rituals, adhere to prescribed gestures, and have passwords. For people who are not members of the lodge, access to meetings is closed.
