Freemasonry Archieven - De Vrijmetselaar

First Visit to the Masonic Lodge

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 13:40:15 +0000

After initiating contact through the lodge’s website, I had arranged a first visit to get acquainted. Upon entering the lodge in my hometown for the first time, I was warmly welcomed by two Masonic brothers.

They had organized an extra information evening due to my enthusiasm; otherwise, I would have had to wait nearly six months for an open evening. Other interested individuals had been invited, but unfortunately, they couldn’t attend on such short notice.

Reception

The reception was very friendly and warm. I was immediately offered a cup of coffee, and they explained what Freemasonry is. Although still somewhat vague, this was more due to my understanding. It became increasingly clear that they work on life’s questions here. The setting was like a clubhouse with a bar and tables—nothing fancy, just “ordinary.” This part of the lodge is also known as the 7th degree, used for reception, breaks, and discussions.

I was then given a tour of some other areas. First, we went to the meeting room, also called the “Voorhof” (forecourt), and from there to the “Werkplaats” (workshop), also known as the temple.

Voorhof / Meeting Room

In the Voorhof, “comparing” takes place. This involves someone giving a presentation without interruptions. Afterward, attendees can ask questions for clarity or to prompt the presenter to think deeper. Others can also share their perspectives on the topic, not to influence opinions but to respect each viewpoint. Agreement isn’t necessary, and that’s perfectly fine.

Werkplaats / Temple

Every lodge has a temple where work is conducted, hence it’s also called the workshop. Several times a year, the temple is opened for rituals, which are like small plays. There are many misconceptions about these rituals because what happens in the temple is kept private. I’ll write more about this in a future blog.

Entering the temple for the first time made a deep impression on me. It resembles a church, but Freemasonry isn’t a religion. It’s a place of reverence, and I anticipate visiting it many more times.

Next Steps

After the tour and further introductions to other Freemasons, the main question was what I was seeking. The two brothers invited me to take the next step. They provided me with brochures and a magazine with more information about Freemasonry. A few days later, I received an email asking if I wanted to participate, and I agreed.

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Texts are based on the ideas and content of the author of devrijmetselaar.nl, reviewed, corrected, and supplemented with the assistance of OpenAI. Images are created based on the ideas of the author of devrijmetselaar.nl using OpenAI/DALL-E.

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Gnosis, Gnosticism, and Agnosticism in Freemasonry

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:00:43 +0000

The quest for truth and knowledge is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. In esoteric and spiritual traditions, three concepts play a significant role: gnosis, gnosticism, and agnosticism. Each of these terms has its own meaning and philosophical implications. In this blog, we explore these concepts and how they relate to Freemasonry, a fraternity where personal development and spiritual insight are central.

What is Gnosis?

Gnosis is derived from the Greek word γνῶσις, meaning “knowledge.” Unlike scientific or intellectual knowledge, gnosis refers to inner, spiritual knowledge. It is a profound insight gained through personal experience rather than external teachings.

Gnosis is often associated with mysticism and esotericism, emphasizing the direct experience of the divine or higher consciousness. In many spiritual traditions, including certain branches of Freemasonry, gnosis is a crucial concept. It signifies that true knowledge is not imparted through books or teachers but through personal transformation and inner enlightenment.

In Freemasonry, gnosis is often symbolized by light. Freemasons speak of “seeking the light,” which is a metaphor for the quest for wisdom and understanding. This light represents not only rational knowledge but also spiritual awakening and awareness.

Gnosticism: The Philosophy of Gnosis

Gnosticism is a religious and philosophical movement that takes gnosis as its foundation. In the early centuries after Christ, various gnostic schools emerged, claiming that the material world was an illusion or a trap created by a lower deity, the Demiurge. According to the Gnostics, humans are inherently divine but trapped in an earthly, flawed reality.

Gnostic traditions emphasize:

That spiritual knowledge is the key to salvation.
That the material world is merely a shadow of a higher, transcendent reality.
That the divine is not external but resides within us.

Although Freemasonry is not a gnostic religion, there are interesting parallels. Masonic rituals contain symbolism reminiscent of gnostic ideas. Consider, for example, the figure of Hiram Abiff, the mythical architect of Solomon’s Temple, who dies and is reborn—a process referring to spiritual transformation. This aligns with the gnostic idea that through inner knowledge and awareness, humans can discover a deeper reality.

Agnosticism: The Unknowable Truth

Agnosticism is a very different concept from gnosis and gnosticism. The term was popularized in the 19th century by biologist Thomas Huxley and literally means “without knowledge” (a-gnosis). Agnostics argue that certain truths, such as the existence of God or a higher reality, are unknowable to humans.

Unlike atheists, who reject the existence of a god, agnostics take a skeptical position. They claim that humans lack the means to make definitive statements about the supernatural.

Freemasonry is not a dogmatic organization and welcomes both theists and agnostics. Some Masonic lodges require belief in a Supreme Being (such as the Grand Architect of the Universe), while others are more philosophically open. This means that an agnostic perspective is not necessarily a barrier to joining Freemasonry. In fact, Freemasonry encourages an open, inquisitive mindset, which aligns with the agnostic mentality.

The Relationship Between These Three Concepts and Freemasonry

Freemasonry is not a religion, but it does contain much symbolism and philosophical ideas that intersect with gnosis, gnosticism, and agnosticism.

Gnosis within Freemasonry refers to the inner search for light, wisdom, and truth.
Gnosticism resonates with the Masonic philosophy of personal transformation and discovering higher truths through symbols and rituals.
Agnosticism fits within the Masonic mentality of openness and independent thinking. Freemasonry does not impose a specific belief system on its members but encourages them to seek their own truth.

A key feature of Freemasonry is its initiatory nature. This means that through rituals and degrees, members undergo an inner journey. This process has many similarities with gnostic concepts of spiritual elevation and awakening. At the same time, there is room for an agnostic perspective, as Freemasonry does not dictate absolute truths.

Conclusion

Gnosis, gnosticism, and agnosticism are three concepts with different meanings, yet they share a common theme: the pursuit of knowledge and truth. Within Freemasonry, elements of all these approaches can be found. Freemasons strive for enlightenment through knowledge, symbolic transformation, and questioning the unknown.

Whether one seeks inner gnosis, follows the gnostic spiritual journey, or adopts an agnostic stance, Freemasonry offers a platform where personal growth and wisdom take center stage. Ultimately, it is up to each Freemason to choose their own path and discover the light of truth.

The message Gnosis, Gnosticism, and Agnosticism in Freemasonry first published on De Vrijmetselaar.

The Symbolism of the Crowbar

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:08:40 +0000

The crowbar is a powerful tool often associated with demolition and force. In everyday life, it is used to overcome resistance, pry things open, or break something apart. However, behind this robust tool lies a deeper symbolism, which also holds significance in Freemasonry.

In Everyday Life

As a tool, the crowbar is simple yet effective. It is designed to break open things that cannot be moved or accessed by hand alone. This gives it connotations of perseverance, strength, and overcoming obstacles.

In daily life, the crowbar can symbolize:

Transformation: Sometimes, breaking down old structures is necessary to make way for something new.
Perseverance: When facing resistance, strength and technique help overcome challenges.
Freedom: A closed door can be opened with the right force and technique.

From construction workers to emergency responders, the crowbar is widely used to make the impossible possible.

The Crowbar in Freemasonry

Within Freemasonry, the crowbar carries a more symbolic meaning. It does not refer to physical breaking but to opening the mind and breaking through mental barriers. While we cannot reveal the deeper meaning within Freemasonry, we can share some universal lessons that align with the tool’s function:

Breaking Old Thought Patterns
Just as a crowbar removes old materials, knowledge and insight help loosen ingrained ideas. Sometimes, it is necessary to critically examine one’s own beliefs and make space for new understanding.
The Power of Wisdom and Reason
While brute force can sometimes break something, a crowbar is effective because of its leverage. This is a metaphor for wisdom: raw strength is not always needed, but the right insight and technique make all the difference.
Overcoming Resistance
In life—and in spiritual development—we encounter resistance. The crowbar reminds us that obstacles are not insurmountable if we use the right tools and methods.
The Symbolism of Freedom
Just as a crowbar can open a closed door, knowledge and self-improvement help free the mind from ignorance.

The Crowbar as a Life Lesson

Beyond its physical and symbolic uses, the crowbar can also be seen as a lesson in transformation. In a constantly changing world, it is important to sometimes push forward and embrace change. Whether it’s personal growth, overcoming obstacles, or gaining a broader perspective, the crowbar reminds us that we always have the ability to pry something open and take a new path.

Whether you hold a tool in your hands or seek a metaphor for growth, the lesson remains the same: with the right force, technique, and dedication, you can open any closed door.

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Allusive

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:11:13 +0000

In Freemasonry, symbols, signs, and words are often used to convey meaning. For the Apprentice Freemason, it can be quite an adjustment and hard work to uncover the meaning behind everything. Fortunately, there are always brothers willing to help with this effort. That’s how I came across the word “allusive.” I thought I knew what it meant.

What I thought “allusive” meant

The Masonic method is an allusive method. That is to say: a method one must get used to and learn to use. Allusive (hinting) is the act of conveying a symbol or ritual within the group, which can have various meanings and, therefore, can be expressed in different ways by those participating in the ‘secret.’ A beautiful example of this is the fish. In the earliest Christian communities, this symbol was drawn in the sand. It hinted at vigilance (a fish never sleeps) but also at participation in Christ, which could then be interpreted in different ways by members of the community.

In Freemasonry, this allusive method is used. A common combination of two symbols is the compass and the square. Outsiders know that this symbol represents Freemasonry. The Freemason, as an initiated member of the group, associates it with much more. The longer one participates in this method, the more associations one likely develops. One sees more and more in it; the insight into how things are interconnected expands. By sharing this growing understanding with others, the bond among members becomes stronger.

Then came the explanation of what “allusive” meant

I spoke with a Brother, our Orator Brother. He tried to explain it to me verbally, but due to all the background noise, it didn’t entirely sink in. In an email exchange, we delved deeper, and I received a beautiful explanation.

Allusive is more than hinting. I learned this wisdom from Brother Podt, who has published extensively in the magazine Thoth about Masonic language.
He defines “allusive” as: addressing the individual while simultaneously connecting the group.

A good example of this is Barack Obama’s speech during his inauguration as President of the US.
He highlighted the challenges faced by different communities, posed the rhetorical question of whether those challenges could be solved, and then answered with, “Yes, we can!” The repetition of “Yes, we can” had a unifying effect on the audience.

Watch that speech again online, and you’ll notice how it gradually brings about a sense of connection. A skilled preacher also knows how to play the allusive game to keep their congregation united. Tolerance and brotherly love are usually the keys to this. A Freemason who reveals himself in the West needs the allusive language to fulfill his unifying role.

Pointing out possible similarities between parties often backfires, as parties usually emphasize their differences. They are not yet open to connection.
Hinting at a possible connection does not immediately provoke defense but instead encourages parties to think.

Practice

In Freemasonry, during regular meetings, the so-called comparisons, we engage in much discussion and seek the connection my Brother referred to. Here, the allusive plays an important role. Once again, it is not an easy concept, but practice allows you to understand it.

Transcript of Barack Obama’s Victory Speech

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Poetry Evening: Who Am I?

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:32:03 +0000

Who am I? The gatherings after my initiation have been quite unique, not in any way standard. This is the second evening, dedicated to Poetry. A brother previously introduced the Poetry evening, focusing on poetry with a Masonic meaning. I was tasked with selecting a poem that holds personal significance and can be interpreted Masonically. The chosen poem is: Who Am I?

This is quite challenging, being only two weeks into my apprenticeship. Nonetheless, I have made an effort and presented the following. Please note that certain parts have been abbreviated to avoid revealing aspects of the Initiation ritual, preserving the experience for future Freemasons.

Presentation: Who Am I?

Worshipful Master, Esteemed Brothers,
Two weeks ago, I was initiated as an Apprentice. A new world is unfolding before me. I have been asked to recite a poem and provide a Masonic interpretation.
Worshipful Master, Esteemed Brothers, I am not yet able to offer a Masonic interpretation, given my brief time as an Apprentice. I hope for your understanding. However, I can explain why I chose this poem.

The initiation left a profound impression on me, and I am processing these experiences daily. The chamber of reflection made a significant impact. Sitting alone, approximately 40 cm from a burning candle, watching the flame dance in the air that sustains it.

Behind me, a shadow—my shadow—moving on the chamber door.

Why this emotion?

In short: everything I have done in my life lies behind me but continues to influence my present and others’ lives to varying degrees.

While searching for a suitable poem, I found a collection I’ve owned for nearly 10 years but never read: “Who I Became” by Piet van den Akker, a former Jesuit who left the order in the 1970s. He was my uncle.

It’s a short poem – 6 lines, 27 words – that encapsulates my current contemplations.

The poem is titled: Who Am I?

Who am I?

Who was I and who did I become?

Just take a look

in the mirror.

You are what you see

whether you like it or not.

The message Poetry Evening: Who Am I? first published on De Vrijmetselaar.

Research Free Mason

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 16:49:18 +0000

During my burnout, the question kept coming up: Who am I, really? Sure, I knew what I had done over the years and where I came from. But was I still happy with everything I was doing? And so, I entered the research phase.

Profile Test

In the past, I had taken profile tests, and the results were always the same. I was also told that intrinsic values never change. Well, they got that wrong, because in my case, they certainly did. I noticed I had become more sensitive, perhaps even more human.

Now, Google can be quite helpful, and somehow, it once showed me a Freemasons website. But I wasn’t particularly drawn to it at the time—it didn’t resonate with me.

Coaches

I had conversations with coaches due to my burnout, and also with a lifestyle coach. But did they help me with the questions I had? Not really. These were existential questions—questions about existence. They concern “your” being, who you are, the meaning of life, and the deeper foundations of existence. That explanation isn’t entirely complete, but it encapsulated what this research phase was for me.

Religion, Church, Bible

Religion, the church, and the Bible don’t suit me. There are too many rules, and you have to do “something” in a specific way. In other words: dogmas. That’s not for me. I’m a free spirit—I need to think and act freely. My parents always saw me this way and gave me a beautiful sculpture by Piets Althuis called The Free Bird. They gave it to me back in 2009, shortly after my father passed away.

And so, my search led me back to Freemasonry. I started reading more about it online and watching videos on YouTube. My interest grew from there.

As the next step, I reached out to a local lodge. It was simple and low-threshold: I just filled out a form on their website.

The message Research Free Mason first published on De Vrijmetselaar.

My story

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 15:54:22 +0000

Without revealing my name, I will try to explain who I am. Anonymous, therefore.

Anonymous

Why the anonymity, you might wonder? First, my identity is irrelevant; it’s the content that matters, not the name behind it, so Anonymous. Second, Freemasonry unfortunately evokes negative reactions from some people—ranging from prejudice and hate to even threats. That’s a risk I’m not willing to take. What’s important to me is that visitors to this website understand what Freemasonry is and what it can mean for people.

Background

For the past 25 years, my life revolved entirely around building a career. Especially during the first 15 years, I completely neglected my private life and social relationships, which took a heavy toll. After losing loved ones, I hit rock bottom and found myself struggling with a severe burnout. It took me three years to recover, with the support of loved ones and professionals.

A valuable lesson: don’t hesitate to ask for help and accept it when it’s offered!

That period fundamentally changed my life. Things like career, business growth, and status suddenly became unimportant. I realized I was missing something in life. Questions began to surface, such as:
Who am I? What do I want? Why do I do what I do? And what impact do I have on others?

Coaches, Google, and many conversations

I started talking with my coaches: the people who helped me recover from burnout, process my grief, and improve my lifestyle. While they gave me a lot of valuable insights, they couldn’t help me answer these existential questions. My search eventually led me, via Google, to Freemasonry. After conversations with members of a local lodge (a lodge can be seen as a kind of association), the pieces began to fall into place.

Freemasonry offers me a safe environment to work on myself—by listening to others and helping them in return. But ultimately, the responsibility lies with yourself.

It might seem as if my journey was short, but in reality, it has spanned several years, even before my burnout. Through my online searches, Freemasonry kept appearing thanks to algorithms, but at first, it didn’t resonate with me.

My journey, Anonymous

Through this website, I aim to share my personal journey and explain what Freemasonry is and what it means to me. Anonymously, because my identity doesn’t matter, I’ll take you along on my first phase: the search.

The message My story first published on De Vrijmetselaar.