The antiquity of the concept of Freemasonry is indicated by several elements. Those are its connection with the teachings of ancient mysteries and the retained ritualistic manner of those initiatory systems, as well as its devotion to tradition, and somewhat archaic vocabulary. At the same time, it is a relatively modern project that syncretically synthesizes and values principles of various philosophies and religions. It takes from each what represents universal human values. Given that in its final organizational form, symbolic Freemasonry arose within the Western cultural milieu, and that its first Constitution was written by a Presbyterian pastor, it is understandable that it relies most heavily on the traditional Christian worldview.
Since that document was composed over three centuries ago, its revolutionary nature at the time should be emphasized. This is expressed in the stance that "a Freemason is no longer obligated to worship the official state religion, but according to his own conscience, the religion in which all men agree." At that time, Freemasonry was under the strong influence of European Enlightenment and simultaneously a significant promoter of it. Despite the rigid class divisions in society, a merchant, a nobleman, and a craftsman could sit together within the same lodge. Many Freemasons, scientists, and artists, especially in England and France at that time, achieved ingenious works. They remained in their country’s history as national heroes. But let us turn back to our time.
Freemasonry, therefore, is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. It has no dogmas, no theology, no sacraments, and offers neither forgiveness nor salvation. It regularly emphasizes that a Freemason, while adopting Masonic teachings, retains his religion acquired by upbringing in his specific environment. These cannot be in conflict. It is also important to add that Freemasonry does not require its members to profess any particular faith. Many are distracted in wrong direction by certain elements of church ritual. The presence of the altar, candles, the all-seeing eye, and similar things in the consecrated space of the lodge, which we call the temple.
An educated person, regardless of whether he is a believer or not, should not be confused by this if he knows that the language of Freemasons is the language of symbols. In Freemasonry, everything is expressed through symbols and allegories. Anyone engaged in the study of humanistic thought has no problem, for example, encountering the names of different deities, different theologies, and ancient teachings. He who knows what he seeks will recognize and find it equally in the rites of Isis or Mithra, in the Kabbalah or the teachings of Sufis, Jesus, Buddha, or Confucius, just as in the philosophy and ethics of Freemasonry. The source of knowledge and the name of the teacher are not important. What matters is the light they bring to the world.
The meaning of Freemasonry, or its purpose, is self-improvement. The will to bring more beauty, truth, and light into one's life, with the hope that some of this good will be transferred to his surroundings and improve the life of the social community. The mission of Freemasons is to achieve a peaceful, dignified, and happy life in security and freedom. Although this sounds quite utopian, such attitudes oppose the cynical times of today’s consumerism, the vulgar exploitation of people, and the increasing injustice and insecurity that mark our lives. "Material wealth of the world accompanies spiritual emptiness. Despite being more informed, there is less knowledge and wisdom." Therefore, the task of a Freemason is "to bear witness to freedom, honor, humanity, sincerity, brotherhood, and equality among men."
We oppose all intolerance, sectarianism, and fanaticism. We are against everything that divides people and turns them against each other. Freemasonry is a certain worldview that generally promotes the idea that life is universal. That we are inseparably connected with all living things in the world, and therefore all men are brothers, regardless of everything else that may divide them. Freemasons emphasize freedom as the most important of all values. Freedom, of course, is never absolute. A man can enjoy only as much freedom as he is himself prepared to conquer and defend. The first of all freedoms for a man of mind is the freedom of thought and expression.
It is worth noting here that Freemasons are fundamentally different from some other groups which are generally much more homogeneous, like, for example, sports supporters. Freemasons are, despite their numbers, basically individuals. Each of them perceives the idea of Freemasonry in his own way. Each decides by his own intelligence how he will live "his own Freemasonry." Some do so by prioritizing practical assistance to the needy. Others by studying comparative philosophy and religions of the world in relation to Masonic teachings. Still others by seeking answers to societal problems through a sociological approach. Others by perfecting their rituals and expanding knowledge in the so-called higher degrees, and so on. All are only partially right. Wisdom is not found in a particular place to be visited and taken. Wisdom lies in the manner of adopting and applying what one has learned. "He is not pious who knows all God's laws by heart, but he who adheres to them."
The Masonic ritual is not a ceremony, but a life to be lived.
Our work on ourselves has no other purpose than to raise ourselves, in every possible way. I have long abandoned the idea that we can, even indirectly, improve the world. However, if we work diligently with firm conviction, we can offer the world something that is precious and perhaps more needed today than ever before. Our excellence, ourselves as an example.
MW Bro Zvonko Jadrešin
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Croatia