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 and John Maxwell’s Leadership Model
Combining the principles from John Maxwell’s “The 5 Levels of Leadership” with the specific needs of a Masonic lodge for good leaders creates a framework that is both practical and deeply aligned with the values and traditions of Freemasonry.
The New Mason: Walking the Tightrope of Engagement and Retreat
Embarking on the Masonic journey is a moment of great pride and solemnity, as the new Mason steps into a rich tapestry woven with the golden threads of camaraderie, wisdom, and service. However, this path, while potentially enriching, is strewn with challenges that require a vigilant and proactive approach.
From Stone to Digital: The Timeless Heart of Masonry
While the face of Masonry may change over time, its heart remains steadfast. The future may bring smaller lodges, digital gatherings, or new interpretations of ancient rituals, but the essence of brotherhood and the pursuit of wisdom will never fade. The Masonic journey is not about the size of the lodge or the secrecy of its rituals; it’s about the quality of the bonds formed and the impact made in our communities. In this way, Masonry remains as relevant as ever.
- *Please note, we follow the Grand Lodge of Indiana's Covid-19 social distancing guidelines at all our lodge events. Masks are required by all, and those who may be sick or at risk, are staying home with many healthy or "at-risk" members and/or guests watching our Masonic Education events online. If you are in good health and do not have significant health risks, consider attending at our lodge and joining our other brothers meeting at the lodge. For more information see Covid-19 News and Updates.
