This Masonic education post will focus on “Secret Societies” and their so-called “connection” with Freemasonry.
In 1776, the Bavarian Illuminati, or so-called “Secret Society”, was started by law professor Adam Weishaupt. The Illuminati was formed to teach secular philosophy, and shine a light on the shortcomings of the Catholic Church and its ideology.
It is recorded that Weishaupt also joined the Freemasons, modeled the organization of the Illuminati using aspects of Freemasonry, and recruited from Masonic ranks.
In time, both government (and the church) began to fear the Illuminati, due to their influence with the affluent, and those who ranked high in both church and government. The movement suffered from internal dissension and was ultimately banned by an edict of the Bavarian government in 1785. Some members were imprisoned, while others were driven from their homes. Weishaupt was stripped of his chair and banished from Bavaria. For all intents and purposes, the Illuminati thereafter ceased to exist.
Is the Illuminati affiliated with Masonry? No. And yet it did copy aspects of Masonry and recruit from its ranks. This was most likely due to Masonry being organized in a very successful way, and at the time, many of that periods most successful leaders were also Masons. If your intention is to enlighten the world, then drawing from Masonic ranks would have been (in the eyes of many who are Masons today) an obvious organization to recruit from!
For an excellent introduction into the Illuminati, watch the 5 minute video below.
Additional Masonic Resources:
Freemasonry: Its Influence on History and Its Role Today
Freemasonry, the world’s oldest and largest fraternal organization, has long been intertwined with significant historical events and influential figures. Built on principles of brotherhood, moral integrity, and the pursuit of knowledge, Freemasonry has shaped its...
The Magic of a “We Lodge”
To many accomplished Masons, the essence of a Masonic Lodge lies not in the individual achievements of its members, but in the collective efforts of the brethren working together toward a shared goal.
The Mason Pancake Breakfast – World Domination, One Pancake at a Time
Of course, "world domination" is hardly the goal of Masons—rather, it's about filling hungry stomachs and meeting great people in the community. To learn why, continue reading below... --- Every second Saturday of the month, Carmel Masonic Lodge No. 421 hosts a...
