The Truth About the Freemasons: The Not-So-Secret Society

[@TodayIFoundOut]

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[@nickolasphillips3776]

I believe there's a lot more to the freemasons to which you seem to know nothing about or you think those things are absurd.

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@badassmother1426]

@@nickolasphillips3776 He is a Freemason. The first rule of Freemasonry, lie. The art of Deception. Illusion. He also failed to mention the pedophilia + homosexuality associated with it.

[@st3pwise]

It says 3 comments here. Only 1 showing. Removing all the ones proving the evils of freemasons?

[@st3pwise]

@@nickolasphillips3776 There are some famous heroes within the masons, like captain William Morgan. He even have a statue built after him in New York.

[@lanceh8554]

As a long time Mason, I always explain the big secret as being a person who will keep what you say in secret. What is said in the lodge stays in the lodge. Today that does not mean as much to most, but in the past having a place where ideas and thoughts be expressed without worry of government repercussions was a much bigger deal.

[@mason4354]

I for sure am more of a Mason than you

[@Sotiger]

As a 17 year mason, I share everything about the Craft, save for the modes of recognition

[@mason4354]

@@Sotiger just seventeen years a Mason? I got you by about a decade, no big deal though

[@Sotiger]

@@mason4354 absolutely none of a big deal. Just saying.

[@honeysucklecat]

It’s a threat that never goes away

[@dwashbur]

You might mention that the Masons take care of their own, especially widows and orphans. My dad was a Mason, my mom never bothered to join any of the women's auxiliary organizations. When my dad died suddenly the Masons were right there for my mom. They have a special Widows and Orphans fund to help people get on their feet, but that's not all. When my mom got to the point where she couldn't live alone because she was a fall risk, she entered a Masonic assisted living facility outside San Francisco. The criteria to enter: your husband was a Mason, and you sign all your property holdings to the home. It doesn't matter how much or how little you have. Some have given over millions in stocks and such; my mom had a car worth about $400. That was it, and it was fine with them. They cared for her, took care of her meals, her medications, every need she had. She made some good friends there and lived happily until her death at the age of 84. I joined them when I turned 18 because I knew my dad wanted me to. A few years later after he had died and I was a broke college student, I quit them just to save the dues money. It wasn't that important to me. But I will always respect them for what they did for my mother.

[@ariste01]

There's a huge masonic retirement home up in Elizabethtown. (Bout 30 min from me)

[@g.wilson536]

Yeh, our old neighbor before his death was afreemason, he used his connections as one to help out my love from time to time, even invited him in on the stuff, but my love refused.

[@guymerritt4860]

A lot of people in my family were in the Masons. It's just like a lot of other fraternal organizations. They help each other out, do good works in the community, etc. The conspiracy theories I hear about the Masons are absolute craziness.

[@harrietharlow9929]

@@guymerritt4860 I can't believe that people believe that nonsense. My late father was a Mason and a Knight Templar and yeah, there were things he couldn't tell me (he tended to take oaths seriously) what he could and did tell me was pretty boring. For example some opponents want people to believe that Masons kill babies and drink blood. Most of the social interaction I experienced was via the Knights Templar and one New Year's Day my father invited me along to a Commandery Communion service. I couldn't receive Communion but I could observe the service. What I saw was a bunch of guys in what looked like Horatio Hornblower-era uniforms around a large triangular table that held shot glasses of wine and a plate of Communion wafers. Really scary, eh? 😆 Another thing my mother and I would go to was the annual Good Friday Service and luncheon. No statue of Baphomet, no guys wearing Masonic aprons hatching satanic plots and against all and sundry...Just a nice service, followed by a luncheon. To make my experience of Freemasonry even more pedestrian, my father was also a Shriner and my mum and I attended a handful of social events to raise funds for the Shriner's Hospital (and yes, if a child needs help for various conditions, no bill is ever presented to the parents). Again, pretty pedestrian.

[@fredericktorres6651]

If you have gone through the degrees then you are a Mason no matter recognition, as long as you keep your virtue. I am happy for your story brother.

[@zeehutt7876]

It’s not a secret society. It’s a society with secrets.

[@stickinthemud23]

Not really. There are no secrets in Freemasonry. Secret handshake? Secret substitute? Secret ceremonies? All of that is on the interweb. The tired old line about being a “society with secrets“ is no longer useful. Joseph Fort Newton told us what the real secret Freemasonry is.

[@Cityboytimes]

Exactly as a member we have our secrets just like any other organization that we cannot reveal to the public unless you are a member

[@maydaygaming3953]

last person I heard say this was a free mason

[@HDIII]

#grandslam 💥

[@zeehutt7876]

@@maydaygaming3953 I am not a Freemason. I live by a lodge and have spoken with a few about what they can tell me and basically playing games of fact or cap. They are always graceful to oblige.

[@joerawlins100]

As a member of this wonderful fraternity, I need to correct you on a point. Visiting other lodges is whole-heartedly encouraged. Some of the dates given are also out by about 150 years!

[@andrewdoyle3328]

I picked up on that aswell it's actually a point where people bring up not getting out and visiting or being visited is needed especially for dinner numbers haha

[@nikkiewhite476]

My grandfather was a Freemason, I was in the Jobs daughter's organization. My religion or lack didn't matter, but I got to meet other teen girls from all around the world. It gave me incredible socialization skills I desperately needed. Core tenants? Help each other, help those in need, love the world, keep yourself clean and dress well. By dress well I don't mean expensive I mean take care of your clothes and don't wear torn or dirty clothes. It helped a lot durning my teenage years. They gave me confidence in my own abilities.

[@Zeitgeist6]

My old manager was a Freemason. He always used to talk quite openly about it. About how they had members of all walks of life and all religions to discuss different views on life and how by sharing knowledge they could come together instead of creating boundaries between people.

[@knobbynah]

As a Freemason in NYC I support your comment.

[@carlthor91]

@@knobbynah Also contrary to Simon's discourse, Freemasons are encouraged to visit other lodges, as widely as possible.

[@BrayTube]

Unless you're an atheist. I went to an open day at a lodge once and was told membershiop was impossible for an open atheist, but nobody would mind if I remained an atheist and simply professed to hold *any* belief in *any* deity - as many members already had. With such an admission policy I couldn't see any benefit in joining the club. I went there with a friend who was then and remains a mason. We talk about it occasionally, in broad terms, but I still don't see the appeal. He enjoys it, though, and I've yet to see him trying to control the world in any fashion. I don't see any harm in it. I just think the stated ideals appear less important than the pageantry and camaraderie.

[@kurtjoseph6232]

I've known a lot of masons and Shriners. The attitudes vary WIDELY from lodge to lodge. There are stereotypical conservative racists (these seem to be going the way of the dinosaurs) to pretty liberal folks. I myself belong to the Grange. We're a fraternal organization but we've never placed restriction on gender or race for membership or holding office. Really the only restriction is age but we have junior Grange for that. Give it a wiki search! Very interesting history. I'm fact our national headquarters is down the street from the white House!

[@bladerj]

my father is a freemason from brazil, he stop going to the rituals when he noticed more and more people were joining not to help comunity,but to help themselves in business and politics, you know "you wash my hand and i wash yours", he got fed up with it, but he still assists the charities and the orphanage he helped them build. this ironically helped decline freemasonry importance in brazil i wonder if the same aplly elsewhere

[@shaneilogo2100]

I thought the ad would never end.

[@laurencebellinger3350]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@jj-eu8ee]

Right!!!!!

[@robs3557]

It was ridiculously long!

[@thegrandlevel313]

Did it ever REALLY end? Haha

[@kristiblack4789]

However, he managed to flash an impressive amount of multiple hand signals within that long ass time frame! Circle Jerks are very "good" with their hand jobs!

[@armedwithjello]

My maternal grandparents were Freemasons. Well Gramma was in Eastern Star. Hilariously, there was a lifelong back-and-forth where Gramma kept telling Mom she should join Eastern Star because she would really love it, and Mom would say "What is it though? I'm not going to join if I don't know what it is." Then Gramma would say "I can't tell you because you're not a member." This was an ongoing family joke for decades. My mom never did join, although my grandparents devoted a very large portion of their time to the Lodge as well as running the local St. John Ambulance brigade. My grandparents were dirt poor with minimal education, but they were all about community service, and that was passed to my mom and subsequently instilled in both me and my sister.

[@Corsuwey]

As a 5th generation Mason and a PM, I do not know of any blue lodge in the world that would not accept a visiting Brother from another lodge as long as they are in good standing with their lodge and is carrying their dues card with them. However, some lodges do have a series of questions to test the Brother. Almost all of basic questions are all taught within the 1st degree of Masonry. However, as a PM, I would most likely be asked much more difficult questions or to recite certain things.

[@anthonyarmstrong9156]

There was a blue lodge I visited multiple times in my city. I stopped going because I was planning on visiting other lodges to get a better feel for where I might belong but just never got around to it due to transportation and other hobbies I had picked up but when I decided to start going back the lodge was up for lease. Definitely want to get back in the process though

[@bigcrispyhied]

Simon, you should have mentioned how freemasons were also persecuted during WW2 by the nazis. They would wear a forget me not flower to identify themselves to other freemasons.

[@kevinpitts22able]

There’s a well known story among Masons about Allied Masons who came across a dead Mason who happened to be a Nazi (identified by certain insignia which was a big risk for anyone in that Nazi regime to wear or possess). But the bond between Masons is so strong that they still have the Nazi a Masonic burial. I believe it’s cited in, “Freemasonry For Dummies”.

[@PaxTemplar]

And were made to wear red Triangles on their prison outfit chest

[@tea.lillith]

Are they actually call forget me not flowers on English?

[@PaxTemplar]

@@tea.lillith yes Forget-me-not .small blue flower with 5 blue petals

[@Sotiger]

We still wear forget me not lapel pins

[@Dopey_Fudd]

We are an organization of where a handshake is still your word, and your word is your character, and your character is everything.

[@arcxjo]

I take exception with one statement, that Freemasons are encouraged not to visit other lodges. That's actually one of the biggest benefits of membership, being able to travel to other places and find brethren there. What *is* forbidden is visiting "unrecognized" lodges, i.e. an English Freemason can generally visit any lodge in England, Ireland, Scotland, America, Australia, etc., because those Grand Lodges recognize each other as part of the same tradition, but lodges under the Grand Orient (the main tradition they follow in France) would be forbidden because their practices are too different (they allow women and atheists, for example). I've been to probably 20 different lodges in 3 states, and I've always been welcomed wherever I've gone.

[@Mahault2007]

I was just going to comment on this subject, but you beat me to it. My husband is planning on attending a meeting next month of a different lodge and he's quite excited about it. I know men who have travelled all over North America with the sole plan of visiting lodges as they go. The sense of fraternity is inspiring and something we need these days more than ever!

[@LdHrothgar]

Beat me to it... not only are we ENCOURAGED to visit other Lodges, we are expected to do so, as long as those Lodges are Recognized and regular Lodges.

[@diogeneslantern18]

I am very fortunate in that here in South Africa we have 5 different constitutions: South African, English, Irish, Scottish, and Dutch, and that we are all in amity with each other - it's so wonderful to see the variations of the rituals and learn from brethren of the other constitutions. But to the original point: the most wonderful thing about Masonry, is that I can meet a handful of brethren whom I've never met before, and by the end of festive board we have become genuine friends. Masonry is just such a wonderful, wonderful thing.

[@helloissarae]

How can your exclusion of an entire gender reconcile with your beliefs that Freemasonry is inclusive

[@Michel411]

@@helloissaraeIt’s a FRATERNITY. By definition that means men only. Some things are simply better that way.

[@Original50]

Freemasonry is a peculiar system of morality, demonstrated by symbols and explained through allegory. Visits between lodges is hugely common and many Freemasons are members of more than one lodge.

[@vonsparks]

It's all about brotherly love, relief, and truth!

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@nickolasphillips3776]

@@vonsparks that's a lie

[@panes840]

@@vonsparks what truth? Who's truth?

[@vonsparks]

@@nickolasphillips3776 I'm a mason. It certainly isn't quite as mysterious as you think. It's just a fraternity where we work on being the best versions of ourselves as we can be, and support each other to be the best version of themselves. That's really all there is to it!

[@lp-xl9ld]

"Who controls the British crown? Who keeps the metric system down? We do! We do!" Oh, wait, that was the Stonecutters...totally different organization...

[@djdrack4681]

Doesn't make sense. Within the scientific community the metric system is part of the SI units, and the default. The only countries still using the USC are like US, Algeria, and (cuba?). Masons wouldn't control the British Crown, because we don't believe in such tyrannical things as monarchies. While its very earliest origins were in ancient Greece (athens etc); Our order and its predecessors are in fact where the notions of Democracy originated in the modern context. We were practicing a form of direct democracy with electoral processes centuries basically all modern nations ever existed, and the we helped to bring about the change globally during the late 18th century that led to both the American and French Revolutions; which were the watershed events for democratic representation and expansion of freedoms elsewhere around the globe.

[@michaelevans1193]

@@djdrack4681 - it’s a joke from an old Simpsons episode.

[@macekreislahomes1690]

Good joke. lol

[@wvu05]

Who holds back the electric car?/ Who makes Steve Guttenberg a star?/ We do, we do!

[@sandybarnes887]

The one time Homers big ass saves him.

[@Heymrk]

I no longer live in my home state, but I was initiated, passed and raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Alabama. I've been to lodge in 21 states and one Canadian province. We are encouraged to travel and participate, but only in lodges recognized by our own state grand lodge.

[@fracturedkoi1]

Good to meet another Alabama Mason on here! I’m currently Master of #155! If I may ask, what lodge were you raised in?

[@katmartindale8049]

My husband was an active Mason for a short while til our lives got a little too complicated for him to attend regular meetings. He said there was not a problem with getting a Mason to talk about Masonry; the problem was getting them to shut up about it. It was a small Midwestern lodge and basically all they seemed to do was to host potlucks, run drives for food, toys and school supplies, deliver those goods and arrange for elderly people who need assistance maintenances their homes so they could age in place. A member of another friendly lodge said that Masons would take over the world as soon as they figured out how to organize the next spaghetti feed to run smoothly. I told him they should let women join because women were all pro at working together to get stuff like that done. Both he and his wife got a good laugh over that.

[@LeylandFoizey]

2:10 Video starts

[@kfeltenberger]

I can't speak for other countries, but here in the US, specifically PA, we are encouraged to visit other lodges when we travel.

[@douglasthomson1169]

As a member of 43 years standing and having served two terms as Master of the lodge I have 2 issues. Firstly a common error by many in associating Speculative Freemasonry's formation with early 18th Century London. There were numerous Lodges in Scotland, and probably Ireland pre dating this by 150 years [some have minute books to prove it]. Secondly the assertion that visiting other lodges is discouraged is miles off the mark. I attempt to visit another lodge most weeks, indeed I know many who can be out several times a week. In addition most Scottish lodges have a visiting lodge at almost every meeting.

[@brendanlee4444]

My mother lodge in Australia is affiliated with a lodge in Scotland which is over 300 yr old and visit one another every 10 years. Visitors are the backbone and the ever present " can anyone deliver the 2nd w.t, bro ..... is unwell "🤣

[@57broski]

Thank you for pointing this out. No idea where he got his info on visits to other lodges being discouraged. Being able to visit other lodges is part of what makes the organization so great. I've been traveling for 8 years now, am a past master and currently serving my lodge as secretary.

[@jondehoff4512]

I visit other lodges all the time. Don’t know what that’s about.

[@iampath9418]

Agreed, one of the first “recorded” lodge dated back to about the late 1500s in Aberdeen Scotland. And Idk what that whole “discouraged to visit other lodges” is about. You can’t be a Traveling man and NOT travel lol

[@ukchristian28]

I am an English Fellowcraft Freemason. I was initiated last October and since then I have visited a fair few other lodges. This has always been welcomed. Lodges rely on visitors really.

[@steelwolfnolast6938]

13:00 You ARE encouraged to visit other lodges. But you ARE encouraged to stay within that United or not united lane. Depending on the mother lodge you join. Grand lodge for every state will tell you go out and visit. Just don't visit the ones that are considered irregular.

[@jamesslick4790]

The idea of the Masons as "secret" always cracked me up. They have buildings with the Lodge names right on them. They are about as secret as the "Elks", "Moose" or "Rotarians". Even as a young dumb kid, I knew they were just a private club.

[@nickolasphillips3776]

Their doctrine is the secret also they fact they worship Satan is also a secret.

[@flutterwind7686]

@@nickolasphillips3776 Many are actually Christian, or other religious groups, so what you say makes no sense as they are all religious men. They are NOT Satanists, and you shouldn't listen to those conspiracy theorists who actaully are.

[@nickolasphillips3776]

@@flutterwind7686 so you don't know the difference between the high ranking mason and the low ones

[@aljuric5887]

@@flutterwind7686 Is that why Anton Lavey, the founder of the Church of Satan, speaks so highly of Freemasonry in his book The Satanic Rituals? You are so clueless and gullible that it makes me dizzy to see how taking oaths of silence under the penalty of obscene execution (whether symbolic or not) means nothing to you.

[@sleepystar1638]

@@flutterwind7686 lol Christian and Catholic are very different.

[@limalicious]

My grandfather was a freemason who so embodied the ideals that he was one of the most beloved men in his town. When he died, it led to mass mourning, and his lodge commissioned a coin in his honor to give to new inductees to remind them in whose footsteps they were following.

[@nickolasphillips3776]

So he was a secret satanist

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@Blazerghost]

@@nickolasphillips3776 Finally was looking for this comment, people have no idea what goes on.

[@nickolasphillips3776]

@@Blazerghost many are clueless they have no idea they're loved ones vowed never to talk about the secrets of what they are actually about and what they do. God bless

[@Blazerghost]

@@nickolasphillips3776 All our world leaders, politicians, music artists, actors, policemen….are part of the satanic cult. The Bible even warns us about them.

[@Jobe00]

In Memphis, Tennessee there is a Secret Masonic Temple. How do I know? It has huge letters literally spelling SECRET MASONIC TEMPLE on it that you can easily read from I-240.

[@cerhart7172]

I'd say their Temple Association/Board has an excellent sense of humor!

[@McGriffman]

That made me blurt laugh...

[@Jobe00]

@@McGriffman It confused the Hell out of me when I saw it.

[@jamesagwe2981]

Is caro Michigan there's also one

[@blackthoughtachieves2210]

The secret is in the behind-the-scenes shenanigans they utilize to circumvent the law.

[@MRG3M4R]

Really good video on Freemasons! As a Past Master, head of the Lodge, I agree with all of this for the most part. I will say that we are encouraged to visit other Lodges though, I don't think I've ever been told not to go to another Lodge thus far.

[@ariste01]

My great grandfather was a freemason and my grandmother was part of the women's auxiliary. I asked her about it and she said they just organized social events and did charity. Honestly her travel stories were far more interesting. R.I.P. GiGi.

[@sharonbender880]

That's probably all she 2as privy too. Level 32 and above understand what is really going on

[@redimage4255]

@@sharonbender880 freemasons arent really esoteric like you think it is, look into Crowley's O.T.O

[@harrietharlow9929]

@@sharonbender880 My father was a 32nd degree and I'd swear on my life that there was no hatching of nefarious plots! When are conspiracy buffs going to get it right?

[@nickolasphillips3776]

@@harrietharlow9929 your grandfather vowed to lie about the truth of freemasonry.

[@StephanieLockhart-nh7ey]

You are bloodline cursed like me 😢 it goes down 4 Generations

[@zanderw1199]

My grandfather was a suspected Mason. He passed a few months ago so we will never know. We brought him on holiday and he really hit it off with a guy who we know is a Mason, was so strange for our grandad to disappear with a stranger. We did ask him about it. He got upset and told me "it's not a secret society, it's a society with secrets" ....which just adds more mystery to it.

[@phhdvm]

"suspected Mason"? Most of are happy to talk about it. It's not mysterious.

[@garystinten9339]

Look through his effects and find any mason materials.. read about it.

[@herbalterrorist420]

@@phhdvm I know lol. My stepdad was/is a mason. He doesn’t hide that he is from his family etc. He doesn’t hide or lie when he goes to the lodge to meetings etc. It’s not something you have to keep secret from your family, You’d know if he was one or not. 😂

[@gera911]

I truly can't see what "mystery" you are referring to. Didn't you ask him if he was? We're not asked for secrecy, only discretion.

[@deansmith6593]

A suspected mason? My Great Uncle was a Mason, it was never a secret. Had a family reunion at a Masonic lodge. The Masons had a baseball field next to the lodge that I played ball at. You are making it sound more mysterious and secretive than it is in reality.

[@StarStrider99]

My uncle is a Mason. Based on conversations with him, it mostly just seems like a fraternity for old men. Nonetheless, everyone else in the family thinks he's in some kind of cult lol.

[@inyrui]

That's the best description of it - "fraternity for old men." They don't really do anything except hang out haha

[@b1646717]

my 80 year old grandfather confirms this.

[@YaakovEzraAmiChi]

Yeah I used to have a friend whose dad was one. I went to a lil gathering for charity or something idk there was food and the girl I liked. I looked around. It was small. But cool artifacts including a suit of armor. And a library room that was small but had so many books.... All in all though it wasn't anything the conspiracy theorist would want you to think lol. It was pretty... boring

[@fancyincubus]

Idk fraternitys seem a little culty " Your not welcome untill you stay in the trunk with a bottle of jack and don't come out till its finished" those initation hell weeks can kill a person depending on the frats "tradition"

[@tz-xi3kr]

I am a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Master Mason and I can confirm that it is mostly just old men drinking and arguing all the time. We can't even agree on what place to have dinner much less run a conspiracy of any kind.

[@connorio2474]

Plot twist: The guy talking is actually a mason and is misleading us

[@mihailhidler5400]

What an absolute twist, who would expect a mason to mislead and divert

[@duncanvantongeren4646]

Very likely given his name and his freemasonic logo...

[@robinlindberg6339]

@@mihailhidler5400 Must always be thinking. And keeping on your toes. 🙂 The devil is a snake in the grass!

[@diogeneslantern18]

@@robinlindberg6339 it's ironic to read "always be thinking" and yet be so ignorant of Masonry.

[@robinlindberg6339]

@@diogeneslantern18 Your ignorance is your bliss. One day, very soon, ALL will be reveled, to EVERYONE. Your delusions will be shattered.

[@justinwhite2725]

6:51 not strictly accurate. The goat of Mendes wasn't called Baphomet at the time. That name was coined later. But good for you for not callit it Satan, because there is no relation.

[@wvu05]

In my observations, I think a lot depends on how Masons present themselves. There was this guy in my National Guard unit who would draw Masonic symbols on his shirts and then clam up when people ask about it. He also had no sense of humor if you teased him about it. Needless to say, not the best advertisement for the group. (My personal feeling is that of Carl in the Stonecutters episode, if you want something to be a secret, shut up about it.) However, when I moved to PA and saw some Shriners events that were family friendly and open to the public, their philosophy was, "This isn't a secret society at all. We willingly state our membership and publicly post meeting times [a lodge close to where I live lists the date and time of their monthly meeting on a marquee outside the building]], but we do have certain rituals that are secret." I can respect that.

[@tz-xi3kr]

Its one of those things, you take an oath that you do not talk about certain things. Honestly you can find all the stuff online or in books any ways. I am a Shriner as well even though I haven't been very active in a few years, Freemasonry for Dummies is a great book to read and the Shriners have a crazy history.

[@wvu05]

@@tz-xi3kr I understand that some things are secret. My only point is that if you really want something to be a secret, don't draw it all over everything. Even ignoring the tact of putting such symbols on a government uniform, you could just say, "It's a Mason thing" and leave at that, but to say "It's a secret" after you decided to draw it on your shirt is a bit ridiculous.

[@markfaby3130]

We had a member of long-standing who was, to blunt about it, a raging sphincter. I sat next to him as a tyler(sp) and he would mutter insults under his breath about the Lodge Master, other line members, etc. I discussed this with an uncle who was a Mason and he said that the Masonic Lodge attracts all sorts of men, including jerks and to simply keep that in mind and deal with those jerks accordingly.

[@lowercherty]

You sure he wasn't an LDS member? Many of their rituals are similar and they co.monly have a square and compass symbol on their underware. By the way, they forbid members from becoming Masons too.

[@wvu05]

@@lowercherty I'm sure. He wouldn't shut up about the Masons, and he wore the ring. Yet when someone asked him what the drawings meant, he became Lenny in the Stonecutters episode.

[@mattengel2596]

Great video! One correction though, in most of the United States traveling to other lodges is highly encouraged. In Pennsylvania, where I am, it is rare to find a brother Mason who has not been to at least one other lodge. We conduct many joint activities, and support our fellow lodges in any way we can.

[@aaronhiggs]

The American Revolution was organized by masons traveling from lodge to lodge

[@Sotiger]

Most GLs in the world encourage visitation to lodges they are in amity with

[@Corsuwey]

As visitor of a lodge, you cannot hold any position other than being a visitor. Within that exception is that a visiting Grand Master, within the jurisdiction of their Grand Lodge, can perform certain duties in the East.

[@ericparrish1515]

Got any pics in color?

[@garlottos]

To add to this, many brothers are members of more than one lodge

[@johnpatrick6998]

I'm a Master Mason and a 32nd degree Scottish rite mason. Masonry is about brotherly love and charity. There is an elderly Mason I know in another lodge, he was in need of a Kidney transplant. The call went out and 800 brothers answered. When he got a call from the hospital informing him of a match the receptionist asked him to what fraternity, if any he belonged. He told her and she started to cry. She said she'd never seen so many people willing to help a person they don't know but she knew it had to be a loving fraternity. The doctor thought the same and he is currently going through the degrees. These are the stories the Alex Jones types never want to hear. Talk to the Masons in your town or city. Become informed.

[@jeffreyrodrigoecheverria2613]

It was a greedy organization that promoted alchemy

[@whiteonlypie4979]

No no those charities are used for exactly that reason as a front your all Satan worshippers and totally go against the word of Christ your a disgrace with no morals ! There is good and evil and you will not do what thou wilt you will repent or suffer for worshipping the serpent

[@muhammadumarvlog8847]

Glad to know that

[@sleepystar1638]

Ok and what do you do there? Why do you swear yourselves to secrecy if there’s nothing bad going on?

[@whiteonlypie4979]

@@sleepystar1638 they are Satan worshippers the founding fathers thought that it was their destiny to create the new Babylon if they where Christians why would you start America with freedom of religion what religion would be persecuted elsewhere in the world paganism and satanism they keep secret oaths as imagine if the world found out that a small but powerful group has been behind many of the world wide events that have changed the course of history all for the goal of a global government watch atlyan child's X factor winner who was a freemason explain it in detail it will blow your mind

[@vixenghoul]

My Dad was a Freemason. I haven’t heard him talk about being in it since the 90s and never thought to bring it up. Just forgot about it. Looking forward to watching this !

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@sleepystar1638]

Yeah my dad wouldn’t shut up about it when I was a child. When I asked him about them worshiping Satan, for the first time in his life he shit his mouth about it.

[@williamknight6227]

If you want to learn more. Find a lodge and have dinner with them get to know them.

[@alecubudulecu]

My dad was a Freemason. Pretty cool group. When I took my wife to see the Arch of Triumph at Valley Forge park - she was shocked to see the Freemason logo clearly and largely inscribed. She asked flat out “aren’t they a cult?!?” I laughed and had to explain.

[@omidee2926]

In one word, "yes"

[@alecubudulecu]

@@omidee2926 in one word, "nope"

[@belove9]

My grandfather Dr. Delgado is a high ranked freemason. He murdered me as a blood sacrifice almost 7 years ago and Grady saved my life. The big secret is that 33 degree freemasons and master masons practice satanic ritualistic abuse to summon up 👿.

[@ghost-user559]

@@alecubudulecu Uh? YES. “Lucifer, the Light-bearer! Strange and mysterious name to give to the Spirit of Darkness! Lucifer, the Son of the Morning! Is it he who bears the Light, and with its splendors intolerable, blinds feeble, sensual, or selfish souls? Doubt it not!” -Albert Pike in Moray and Dogma of The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite “When the Mason learns that the key to the warrior on the block is the proper application of the dynamo of living power, he has learned the mystery of his Craft. The seething energies of Lucifer are in his hands, and before he may step onward and upward, he must prove his ability to properly apply energy.” -Manly P. Hall in The Lost Keys of Freemasonry

[@billmalcolm4291]

My wife jokingly refers to it as my “cult”. I always tell her cults get things done, you should see us trying to decide where to go for dinner

[@michaelgreenfield6146]

I’m a fourth generation master mason and I love your videos happy to discuss the Craft further if you’d like

[@Hegde-]

Are you really? Cool. Where is your lodge and what are the requirements to join freemasons. Im not being cocky. Just asking out of curiosity.

[@garystinten9339]

Please make a video of a ceremony.. I hear a few ceremonies held by the Masons are "private" and for what reasons aren't explained clearly. Please make a channel and disclose everything.. I would love to hear more

[@Urteilgame]

You ask a lot for a man to take no heed of the low tide.

[@michaelgreenfield6146]

@@garystinten9339 my brother unfortunately I’m obligated to not do that but I’m happy to chat about whatever I’m able to chat about and answer any questions I can. It’s a wonderful group of men I look up to

[@michaelgreenfield6146]

@@Hegde- I belong to two lodges in atlanta Ga you just have to be 21 years old, believe in god and the immortality of The soul you should check it out, a wonderful organization

[@GhostBuilds]

As a 3rd degree Mason in craft lodge as well as a 32nd degree member of the Scottish Rite, I want to thank you for being one of the only videos on KZbin that actually tell the truth with 99% accuracy The only mistake you made was that we are definitely encouraged to visit other lodges it is highly encouraged that we visit our brethren in other lodges across the world. I'm from Canada and I regularly visit Hamilton lodge in Spanish Town Jamaica. As well as other lodges in my district

[@Tshepiso.Morake]

Can you moved lodges? Like if you joined in one area but are moving to another

[@GhostBuilds]

@@Tshepiso.Morake yes

[@brians5724]

He also didn't mention the women's auxiliary, rather implying they were banned. My great grandmother would prove otherwise. Though she had told me I shouldn't be reading that when I found one of her lodge books long ago.

[@christophersmallwood3944]

I'm one Proud US Freemason scottish rite York rite and Shriner. I love your videos Simon been watching for years. This was well done. Freemasons for dummies book was written by my good friend Chris Hodapp

[@tz-xi3kr]

I love that book, I think I have bought 4 copies now because I keep giving them out to people who have questions. I recommend it all the time to people.

[@diogeneslantern18]

Br Hodapp is a legend

[@McGriffman]

Hey! Love this channel! Love the topic - you gave a bunch of really great info - very accurate. I am a Mason in the USA (Florida) and our lodges highly encourage us to visit other lodges, in our state, other states and overseas and we welcome Masons from anywhere. We had a brother visit us from Ireland recently and we made sure he was welcome and had a great time. Two notes: If travelling overseas, we usually call the lodge ahead of time to make sure they know a member is coming - that way there is no confusion when he arrives. Second, regarding Prince Hall lodges in the USA, last I heard (before the pandemic) we are still separate enough to not be able to visit each other. We've had exceptions, but very few. A brother in my lodge actually migrated from a Prince Hall lodge and he said our lodges are very different in the way we do things. He could not elaborate (and was not asked to do so) as he would not break his promises to his original lodge. Anyway, great job (again) - keep it up!

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@nickolasphillips3776]

I pray for you masonry isn't good stop while you still can don't go up the freemason ladder.

[@kenichiyoshimura5929]

@@nickolasphillips3776 You just keep praying, but they won't stop building until Lucifer arrives to throw that last trowel and finally finish their truncated pyramid.

[@McGriffman]

@@kenichiyoshimura5929 I'm not certain if this was a serious comment or satire, but it made me laugh out loud. Thanks for that.

[@kenichiyoshimura5929]

@@McGriffman 😆 Always glad to help 🔺️

[@JoshDunham88]

I love that the "secret rituals" were basically a form of standardized test based on memorization skills to make sure make sure potential members wouldn't decrease the intellectual capacity of the group. And that by spreading them out over the different degrees of mastery you basically retested the person on a regular basis to make sure that their ideals stayed in line with the beliefs of the group it's a great way to detect descent and therefore protect your environment of freedom

[@Ichthys42]

They still are. It has improved my memory dramatically.

[@roxysmith1534]

Secret rituals threatened with death if secrets are exposed and Satanic worship mixed in. It's named the "craft" for a reason. Masons will lie to cover their secrets or they are to lower rank and or ignorant to know anything about the real purpose of the Satanic /Lucifierian brotherhood.

[@sonofloveless7223]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@glennfrick7975]

Irony:) of freedom.

[@derp8575]

It's important to remember how to stab skulls and drink wine from skulls. Intellectual stuff, you shill.

[@Mahault2007]

Not much of a secret society when they advertise "To be one, ask one" on bumper stickers :)

[@levone8958]

Simon, random comment, you probably won't read it. But thank you for making these videos. Your channel is an endless source of information on very fascinating niche topics I would never learn about otherwise. Thank you and your team for your work.

[@Sotiger]

Simon there’s only THREE Degrees in the Craft and the completion of the Third woth the Holy Royal Arch. Everything else is Side Orders. Also, the first Craft Lodge in England was probably founded pre1717 as you said, but in Scotland the earliest minutes we have are from 1598, lodge Aitchersons Haven.

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@puffingpete]

Hi Simon.I’ve been following your channels for a couple of years now and have always enjoyed them. I’m a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and thought it might be a good subject matter in a “Today I Found Out” video. Keep up the good work and Happy Holidays!!!

[@kingstonpatrickscuthbert5473]

A bit of a correction. I was Initiated in a lodge under the UGLE (United Grand Lodge of England) in South Africa. While still a UGLE Mason, I Affiliated to a lodge under the GL of Scotland. I am still a member of a Scottish lodge. In South Africa we have 4 Grand Lodges represented. UGLE, Scotland, Ireland and GL of South Africa, derived from the earlier Netherlandic lodges. These 4 are in Amity and visitation is common between the Constitutions. A member should not visit a lodge not in Amity. Hence the French GL permitting athiests is not in Amity.

[@michaelevans1193]

As the son and grandson of a Mason, I welcome this enlightened discussion. As a Roman Catholic (Mom’s side) and a member of the Knights of Columbus I am constantly fighting the conspiracy tropes with the uninformed.

[@Philip_Taylor]

You just enjoy joining clubs as a family.

[@TriaMaxwell]

Sure, your family isn't into cults, just protecting child rapists. Catholocism's history is pretty much rape, slavery and genocide

[@st3pwise]

Say that to the heroe Capt William Morgan, who got a statue built after him in New York.

[@joelj8758]

I wish I could speak with you @michael

[@honeysucklecat]

Wow, triple conspiracy membership! You rock!

[@niravdarmesh5278]

This is what I've been trying to tell anyone who will listen. Thank you, Fact Boy!!!

[@KenFBoyton]

Slight error in fact in the video. As a Mason for almost 10 years now, I can say that we are very much encouraged to visit other lodges! Love what you do!

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@bobert2544]

Very true!

[@erikrick]

Agreed.

[@Sagacifer]

When I first heard the name freemasons I just looked them up on wikipedia. It said they're a global organization and one of the oldest fraternities in the world - so I checked on google maps to see if there was anything near where I live, and lo and behold, they are in every nearby city. They each have a website linked on google maps, and you can just go on any one of them and get the answers to all your questions on their FAQ. There was nothing fishy about it whatsoever, just a brotherhood with solid principles from everything that I read. But looking them up on youtube, oh dear. Conspiracy theories left and right.

[@TheRealist2022]

Exactly right.

[@RickA440]

This was a very good and mostly accurate presentation of Masonic History. Though the "secrets" involve mostly modes of recognition and the degree rituals, the fact of them leaves detractors with the ability to conjour up varied and ridiculous conspiracy theories having no basis in fact. Contrary to your statement that members are discouraged from visiting other Lodges in other jurisdictions and countries, just the opposite is true. Such visits are encouraged and visiting members are extended great courtesy. Also, Masons are obliged to provide necessary aid and assistance to other Masons and their families both individually, and at the Lodge level and beyond. Thus, the necessity of not only credentials, but knowledge of those "secrets" in order to prevent fradulent attempts of non-Masons to take advantage of this fraternal obligation. This is not at all to suggest that Masons, by their very nature are unwilling to help others not a part of the fraternity, but the choice to do so is an individual one, and not a specific obligation.

[@illumiNOTme326]

Sure sure

[@1physics]

I feel a very specific obligation to help others and I'm not in a lodge. If you think you have some kind of stronger obligation just because you are in a club, that shows you are brainwashed. What happens if you don't help another mason? You're no worse off than if I don't lol. Be a decent human and just help others because it's the right thing to do.

[@ghost-user559]

We can all read Morals and Dogma and ALL of your doctrines? You worship Lucifer? Even if you don’t know it! No one cares how virtuous you think you are? You understand the warrior on the block is solely to channel the “seething energy of Lucifer”? So very charitable. So very virtuous. “Lucifer, the Light-bearer! Strange and mysterious name to give to the Spirit of Darkness! Lucifer, the Son of the Morning! Is it he who bears the Light, and with its splendors intolerable, blinds feeble, sensual, or selfish souls? Doubt it not!” -Albert Pike in Moray and Dogma of The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite “When the Mason learns that the key to the warrior on the block is the proper application of the dynamo of living power, he has learned the mystery of his Craft. The seething energies of Lucifer are in his hands, and before he may step onward and upward, he must prove his ability to properly apply energy.” -Manly P. Hall in The Lost Keys of Freemasonry

[@larryspiller6633]

@@ghost-user559 No, you want to believe that Masons worship Lucifer. It fits your needs.

[@ghost-user559]

@@larryspiller6633 No. You are just ignorant of what your CRAFT actually is according to a man who WROTE many of your rituals. Why do you think they blindfolded and hoodwinked you? They told you that you were going from “darkness into light” but WHAT light? “Lucifer, the Light-bearer! Strange and mysterious name to give to the Spirit of Darkness! Lucifer, the Son of the Morning! Is it he who bears the Light, and with its splendors intolerable, blinds feeble, sensual, or selfish souls? Doubt it not!” -ALBERT PIKE in MORALS AND DOGMA OF THE ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE “When the Mason learns that the key to the warrior on the block is the proper application of the dynamo of living power, he has learned the mystery of his Craft. The seething energies of Lucifer are in his hands, and before he may step onward and upward, he must prove his ability to properly apply energy.” -MANLY P. HALL in THE LOST KEYS OF FREEMASONRY

[@wacojones8062]

I am a Master Mason as was my dad and his father. The core of a belief in a supreme being holds true for the US lodges. Charity, Fellowship and improving oneself and one's community are treasured goals. There is one element not discussed often to pass the three degrees to Master Mason one must memorized three catechisms' that take up to 40 minutes of question and response each. As a participant they are impressive and enlightening. Thank you for your broad overview presentation.

[@Sotiger]

Depends on the Constitution. In English and Scottish it’s roughly 12 q&a’s

[@nickolasphillips3776]

No you have to worship Satan and o become a master mason or the 33 degree

[@Sotiger]

@@nickolasphillips3776 hahahahhahahaha! No. On the contrary, Freemasonry is entirely opposed to any satanic principle (i.e. ego-centered and atheist). And once again. The “33rd Degree” is not that important. Just the completion of one (out of several) masonic orders beyond the Craft. So what you think you know, is clearly BS.

[@danf6975]

If you want to learn the origins, all you have to do is read the book "born in blood: the lost secrets of freemasonry "

[@vestland3877]

As a mason myself I cant get over the ammount of INSANE comments. What type of drugs/medication are you people on, and why are you allowed to use the Internet? Regardsless of your claims freemasonary has nothing to do with politics and religion. Just because you do not understand it, doesnt mean you are correct with your loco loco theories. To me freemasonary have been a great tool in life, made me a smarter and better man, a better husband, and I met lifelong friends I would never have met otherwise.

[@PhilipDeLong]

This was mostly correct in the facts, and much closer than most non-masonic takes on the organization. There were minor mistakes throughout, but they were minor. My major quibble is a lack of emphasis on the admittedly complicated system of amity and recognition-- this is surprisingly important to understanding the fraternity as a whole. Masons are encouraged to visit other lodges, even across the world, but only those which are "in amity." This has led to various strains of freemasonry, the largest of which, the so-called "United Grand Lodge of England" or "Anglo-American"-style freemasonry, encompasses the majority of lodges. The "Grand Orient" or "Continental" grouping is somewhat smaller, and has more political leanings.

[@MP-cq7pm]

Interesting take

[@Rick-jf2ig]

Do you know the handshake? My dad taught me it when I was younger

[@Maver1ck911]

Isn't the larger issue the lack of a HQ or unified doctrine leading to local procedures generally based upon a core set of organizing structures/values/ritual.... thus leading to the issue of amity or recognition.

[@ChristianMorenoMusic]

@@Maver1ck911 not necessarily. While it might be a contributing factor, it dosnt all fall at the hands of not having an HQ. Cultural differences seem to be a larger issue on Recognition, some places really only want Christian’s, some places really want to allow atheists. Some places allow women, and regardless of unification all these different places with different types of people will build their own lodges with there own rules REGARDLESS. I would argue that Masonry is more unified than the public thinks, clandestine lodges/Jurisdictions CAN be common in some areas, but just as well it is a revered and long loved activity among masons to meet brothers from around the world and discuss the differences. In my experiences those differences don’t tend to be principal altering, but rather more colloquial.

[@Maver1ck911]

@@ChristianMorenoMusic thanks for the response! I'm a member of a traditional Greek fraternity and lots of my coworkers including my last "boss" are masons

[@MO-bo2du]

Great video! I was so relieved it didn't turn out to be conspiracy theory nonsense. From a Master Mason in the Grand Lodge of Virginia, AFAM. United States

[@membel]

As a former Eastern Star (female supported version for the wives of course), every Mason I knew was some old guy past 50 whose only politics was who was running for the Grand lodge of the State. The fact that they are some conspiracy to me is laughable. Maybe way back when but today's Masons are lucky to fill their officer stations each year.

[@j.r.cilliangreen4083]

My lodge is getting younger members like myself (not all that young in my case but still) and I agree…all the Conspiracy theories are hilarious…

[@Ethosraps]

So you understand numerology and symbology, but don't see how connected the Masons are in everything you watch, see, and hear? Strange.

[@j.r.cilliangreen4083]

@@Ethosraps um…as a Mason I can say that we are all too busy to be caring about what you are personally doing at any given moment…

[@Ethosraps]

@@j.r.cilliangreen4083 I think the agenda is bigger than me, but gee golly I'm flattered. Every time I talk to one of you people it's some vague attempt to gaslight. So much for 'betterment' or whatever Kool-aid they're selling you.

[@j.r.cilliangreen4083]

@@Ethosraps Bruh! Conspiracy theories ignore the basics of Occam’s Razor! And this is the worst set yet. I don’t think the paralegal and sanitation engineer and IT guy and hospital chaplain are gonna arrange the outcomes of the world! Take a minute and think. Apply Occam’s Razor and come back to me…

[@Ommateum]

One Mason I’ve spoken to briefly told me that the “big secret” is that there is no secret at all.

[@houser2094]

Kind of like kungfu panda dragon scroll moment

[@Elmantukas]

Used to know a freemason, lovely people, lots of charity work, not quite what tinfoil heads describe them

[@Aboz]

Trivia: the symbolic murder of Hiram, which is part of the third Masonic degree, is the origin of the term to "give him the third degree" referring to intense police questioning. Back in the bad 'ol days such interrogations might include a beating.

[@tz-xi3kr]

You also get the term 'black balled' and 'squared away' and 'on the level' all from Masonry.

[@warwicklarkins7438]

@@tz-xi3kr keep sharing I want to know more

[@markfaby3130]

You have any actual citations for this?

[@straygameplaywalkthroughps6480]

@@tz-xi3kr that's like going on a "snipe hunt, ". , or " wild goose chase", , might as well catch a red herring!! Colleges!

[@diogeneslantern18]

@@tz-xi3kr don't forget fair and square!

[@randyglover302]

I was so excited to see you do a video on Freemasons! As a PM of local lodge here in Ohio I will say that we are very much encouraged to visit other lodges. If any Ohio Masons know of the Royal Sofield Its a requirement. Lodge need help from time to time and most meetings I go to around the district usually have a couple people from various lodges at other lodges! Also, In the US the highest governing body for lodges is at the state level.

[@stickinthemud23]

To clarify, membership in Ohio masonry’s voluntary Royal Scofield Society requires visiting other lodges. Royal Scofield was Grand Master of Masons in Ohio in the mid-70s. Great guy.

[@Amidda]

Most of this was spot on…but regarding not visiting other lodges, we are highly encouraged to visit and most regularly do.

[@teecee1567]

It's great to visit. Means someone else pays for your dinner hehehe

[@Aldrnari956]

Very reasonable and well-researched video debunking the crazy theories about the Masons… Which is exactly what the Masons would want us to believe! I’m on to you, Simon. I’m on to you

[@nickolasphillips3776]

He didn't debunk anything kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@nickolasphillips3776]

Oh I see sarcasm my bad

[@sarahbergman117]

My great grandfather was a freemason and my great grandmother was an Eastern star. Several of my cousins are in freemasonry. I always thought freemasons were a part of something dark.

[@diogeneslantern18]

It's a shame that you feel that way

[@hillbilly4895]

only when they turn off the lights and go home...

[@lanakhamash1058]

They are. Your feelings are true.

[@TheRealist2022]

@@lanakhamash1058 No. Not at all.

[@BillyGunn71]

Scary how much of this is bang on.. I wondered if Simon was a fellow brother at one point..

[@terriblej6107]

There are loads of books out there, and nothing he said is an in-house secret

[@stevejones1085]

And he is just far enough off to argue that he is not

[@Sotiger]

Some pretty blatant inaccuracies for a brother to say.

[@paulbrungardt9823]

I am a 32 degree Freemason. I was drawn to Freemasonry by its' great charities. I donate heavily to Shriner's' Hospitals. Freemasonry's teaching have lead my wife and I to fully fund our Panama, Central American charity to provide computers and Braille printers to blind children.

[@TheRealist2022]

Excellent work, Brother. A fine example of what we do for our communities and beyond!

[@paulbrungardt9823]

@@TheRealist2022 Thank you. I normally do not mention our philanthropy publicly; however, in light of the topic, I made an exception.

[@johnblaker2454]

I love how KZbin thinks we need a "context" warning and link. Nobody is being controlled, nothing to see here.

[@markfaby3130]

6th generation Mason here. Have a brother who is a not a Mason give me and another family member a hard time about being part of a 'secret society'. I pointed out that local library has 30 different books on Masonry that he was welcome to check out and read and besides, how secret can we be when we are in the phone book? (Yeah, this conversation was many years ago). He then asked me to tell him about what happens in Lodge and initiations, etc. because after all there are books in the library. I told him it is not my place to discuss any of these topics with a non-member, which to him proved we were up to no good.

[@funkadelic27]

"The righteous man comes to the light so his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God" if what yall do is so good, why hide it? Say what you want but thats not only biblical, its just plain common sense. This is why your brother doesn't trust you. Seems to me low level masons are there to hype the brand and spread positive PR. While high level masons do the dirt and get poor saps who believe there lies tell the truth their allowed to know. Hey man, even hells angels do food drives lol 😆 Either your doing food drives or your actually trusted enough by the gang to sell the dope and make the hits. Just common sense. Thats how I'd do it if I was committed crimes against humanity.

[@Meganec3810]

Phone book 😂

[@Linadhin]

The men in my family (myself included) have been Masons for a few generations now and although most of our meetings are done behind closed doors, it's funny to hear what some people think goes on

[@varvarvarvarvarvar]

It’s not funny, it’s expected

[@jeom0498]

Is there any talk about astral projection? Spirituality/meditation? Egyptian knowledge/ energy? Just curious if there is anything such as it in their believes? Law of one? Just curious if that is part of the knowledge thought

[@jeom0498]

I'm looking forward to next month to join them in a dinner to meet some people and learn more about them

[@brianvillage5]

My grandfather was a Freemason, all of his friends were Freemasons. He, as well as most them were veterans. They were all normal people, staples of their family and communities and the funeral services they offer are better than anything you can pay for.

[@mandipowell7797]

Don't tell the members of the Grand Lodge of Virginia that they're not supposed to go to other lodges, especiallyto help with ritual work. 😅😅😅😅

[@robert48044]

how can you be a travelling man if you don't travel

[@TreeWhisper]

Lmao

[@TheLadiGigi]

I live in Nova and the Masons are hardcore. If the first thing you see coming into VA is that Mason tower in Alexandria, you know who runs sh#t around here.

[@haynesatteh4463]

Intriguing, i always knew there was more to life and i have also been looking for a way to find not only protection but a way to be influential to the human society.

[@bartholetbay412]

oh well you can achieve that by being a part of the illuminatus brotherhood, i know it sounds like a mystery but there are ways you can actually get in contact with them

[@haynesatteh4463]

@@bartholetbay412 hi, isnt the brotherhood a myth?

[@bartholetbay412]

@@haynesatteh4463 well it is not and you cant actually expect it to be open to everyone, but if you want to know more you can look up ANTHONY SZYMON online you will find something interesting.

[@haynesatteh4463]

@@bartholetbay412 oh really, i just saw his website, interesting.i will leave him a message.

[@NeverGoingToGiveYouUp000]

@@bartholetbay412 This one of those join the illuminati scams?

[@Budreaux1973]

I wasn't sure what to expect from this, but you seemed to have done your research. I just wanted to add as a Texas Free Mason, the Grand Lodge of Texas DOES encourage us to visit other lodges. There are several Masons in my lodge that are affiliated with other lodges; meaning they are members of two or more lodges. I'm not sure how it is for other states, but as far as I know, sitting in other lodges is not frowned upon. The only other thing I would add is that the first 3 degrees are all that is required in order to be a Master Mason. You may chose to continue towards the York Rite or Scottish Rite (yep, the same folks that operate the children's hospitals) path or even the Shriners, but it's not required. To anyone that is curious, I would recommend you visit your local lodge and speak to the members there. Most of them have their meeting times and dates posted on the internet and may also offer a meal in the dinning hall before the meeting. This is the time where you can go and sit down with the members and ask them questions. You won't be able to "sit" in the lodge room until you have petitioned and been accepted, but they will be happy to answer any questions you have. Free Masonry is not for "old guys". We have several 20 year olds in our lodge. I wish I would have joined earlier in life myself.

[@tz-xi3kr]

Same in Utah, we have a traveling gavel that goes around the state, or did before covid.

[@stevejones1085]

Do you accept a Lewis at 18?

[@worldtraveler930]

Greetings from Clairette Lodge #1052 A.F & A.M.

[@stevejones1085]

@@DaffroDuckNo, you are required to prove yourself

[@balefiresword2792]

It is the exact same in Oklahoma, I belong to a couple of lodges.

[@richardcheek2432]

The Freemasons are good, moral, helpful people. The jealousy they get from churches are a stain on the Body of Christ. I am not a Mason, but I do admire their fraternity and note that where ever Freemasonry is strong, freedom and democracy flourishes.

[@ghost-user559]

You are a member of the order.

[@richardcheek2432]

@@ghost-user559 No, I am not a Freemason. I wish I were but I am almost dead anyway, so it is a moot point, lol.

[@ghost-user559]

@@richardcheek2432 Well then I would not be too upset about it. They are a notoriously corrupt bunch to be honest. All the “fraternity and democracy” isn’t exactly what they are known for. More assassinations, crimes, and occult rituals? This is what they believe according to the man who WROTE their own rituals! “Lucifer, the Light-bearer! Strange and mysterious name to give to the Spirit of Darkness! Lucifer, the Son of the Morning! Is it he who bears the Light, and with its splendors intolerable, blinds feeble, sensual, or selfish souls? Doubt it not!” -ALBERT PIKE in MORALS AND DOGMA OF THE ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE “When the Mason learns that the key to the warrior on the block is the proper application of the dynamo of living power, he has learned the mystery of his Craft. The seething energies of Lucifer are in his hands, and before he may step onward and upward, he must prove his ability to properly apply energy.” -MANLY P. HALL in THE LOST KEYS OF FREEMASONRY

[@richardcheek2432]

@@ghost-user559 There are people who take skewed views of specific organizations and they use stacked deck propaganda techniques to slander, mislead and connive. I dont go by what people say or claim about others. I go by what I meet and come to understand about them personally.

[@ghost-user559]

@@richardcheek2432 Well I am the type to research. Many a con and cult has hoodwinked many a decent man and woman into playing a role in some scheme. And I always research the core ethics and philosophy of any organization, because whether or not the member knows what their organization represents, their own leadership and scholars certainly do. You see I don’t judge the mason, many just think it’s a club. But the founders and most honored members of their society say they worship Satan in all their rituals, and that’s from their own books from their own lodges? No skewing or stacking of the deck necessary. Straight from the horse’s mouth, and I just am one to call a spade a spade.

[@FrankClark]

Thank you for the accuracy. We're so tired of the sensationalist conspiracy BS all over the internet.

[@sleepystar1638]

So what do you do and why do you keep secrets if there’s nothing to hide?

[@lsxbird7874]

I don't know much about them, but I do know that every man iv ever met that was or is a freemason, was always a kindhearted individual, and very active in the community they live in. I can respect that

[@tjones020570]

That is their goal to be of good moral character.

[@edminto7373]

As a Mason, i think you are spot in except for one thing; many freemasons belong to multiple lodges and are welcome anywhere there is a Freemason lodge as long as they are a Freemason in good standing.

[@jamesmiller6266]

Thank you for presenting this in a fair factual way, it's very refreshing to see it spoken about like this 👍

[@theharshtruthoutthere]

Masons are evil and sick, blinded by the false light (lucifer), serving the creation(god/Baphomet/Baal/lucifer) rather then the CREATOR(GOD/CHRIST). Be not their friend, neither in the club, but: Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Luke 13:5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Luke 5:32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. John 3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. Masons shall be in lake of fire, not in heaven. Believe not their lies, for they are BLIND, leading blindly the blind + they are thief and robbers. Matthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. John 10:1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.

[@mc-zy7ju]

Who controls the British crown? Who keeps the metric system down? We do, we do Who keeps Atlantis off the maps? Who keeps the Martians under wraps? We do, we do Who holds back the elctric car? Who makes Steve Gutenberg a star? We do, we do Who robs cavefish of their sight? Who rigs every Oscar night? We do, we do!

[@derp8575]

Hidden in plain sight, except for the electric car. But that was probably included so in the future people could say "They aren't holding back the electric car, therefore the entire lyrics are invalidated". Holy crap some people are stupid! The masses are too scared to admit there are plausible conspiracy theories. It would disrupt their psychology. Just a coincidence. Everything conspiracy theory related, no matter how much physical and circumstantial evidence you present to them, is a coincidence. Their ignorance will be our downfall, and the Masons success. New Order of the Ages, as printed on the back of U.S. paper currency, along with 13 historically documented Masonic symbols. Just a conspiracy, I'm sure.

[@jstring]

Well done Simon, for the most part accurate. As a F. a. a M MM myself the Grand Lodge of Washington State encourages visits to other lodges in other states and countries. As a traveling man I’ve been well met and welcomed in any accepted lodge I’ve ever been to and will go out of my way to find local lodges when traveling. After Proving up I’ve always been warmly welcomed.

[@nickolasphillips3776]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2iqZnaBjZWdm5I

[@lowercherty]

I've visited lodges all over the country and world. Never a problem as long as I had a paid up dues card and could answer a few ritual type questions. I've made many friends doing this and have always been warmly welcomed.

[@shroomyk]

My great-grandfather and grandfather were both in the Freemasons, as well as many of the older members of my family. Grandma and great-grandma were in the Order of the Eastern Star. My dad and grandfather were in De Molay as kids. Many of our family's graves have the insignia of Freemasons and Eastern Star on them. Since my grandparents passed away, I started a collection of their stuff from the Masons and Eastern Star. My family are very normal and good people. From what I understand, these are just groups where people of different faiths and backgrounds can come together, share values, and help the community. We recently had grandpa's funeral and the Masons did a little ritual before the service. He was a good man, always helping others. That alone is enough for me to say he could never be involved in something nefarious. He touched many lives and is sorely missed by many.

[@teecee1567]

@ShroomyK Thanks so much for that lovely testimony of your older relatives. It counters what some here, who are talking complete nonsense, say. If you have considered joining, don't wait to be invited.... we don't do that. Anyone interested in joining, must approach us... it's one of the rules. Questions? Ask away.

[@amadiohfixed1300]

The first rule of Freemason must have been to not talk about Freemason

[@badassmother1426]

Yes! Shshshshshshshshshshshshhhh

[@Prockski]

Depends on where in the world. In the UK masons are pretty open.

[@Rick-jf2ig]

They ask for discretion, not secrecy

[@Sotiger]

Hahahhahaha! No! We are encouraged to openly speak about Freemasonry

[@citetez]

@@Sotiger - Hence the bumper stickers I see occasionally: "To be one, ask one". Although I have to admit, it was a lot more interesting overhearing late night conspiracy talk between my loony fundamentalist relatives when I was a kid.

[@kris242]

My dad was a Freemason of the Royal Arch chapter. I never much cared for the group myself, but I always just found the conspiracy theories and general fears of them to be so absurd 🤣 They were always just a glorified college frat to me. Sometimes even, if my dad had a bit too much to drink, he’d start telling me and my mum about the ceremonies and it just all ended up sounding so hilariously taken out of proportion from those who fear them. It’s just a bunch of tipsy men reciting traditional text and then getting more hammered while they complain about their wives. Only reason I’m not following in my dads footsteps of joining is just because this literal “social group” just doesn’t really interest me. I am, however, very lucky to have a connection to them through my dad. One thing that is indeed a fact about them is Masons always look out for each other and each other’s families. When my dad passed away a few years ago, his fellow members payed for the entire funeral and constantly looked out for my family. If I ever travel somewhere distant and get lost or run into some bad luck, all I’d have to do is find the nearest Freemason temple, give them my dad’s name and they’ll take care of me however possible. They’re most certainly not the big scary group everyone thinks is controlling society. They certainly have big names in their membership which is where the idea of their “power” comes from. But, as I said already, they’re just a glorified frat.

[@TheRealist2022]

@Kris Sweeting Not strictly true. If you came to England and told me your dad's name and asked for help.. it would mean nothing to me and I would not be obliged to do so. What you CAN do, is to contact the Almoner of your Dad's Lodge and tell them, then they would be able to help. The Lodge is responsible for looking out for the family of their Brethren.. Freemasonry as a whole is not and this is simply because the mans Lodge knows who the family is. The rest of Freemasonry doesn't.

[@hillbilly4895]

@@TheRealist2022 Yup, what Brother Realist said. Also, can't say as I've seen a Sigma Nu funeral service?

[@_VISION.]

Yeah I can tell you don't know much about freemasonry

[@melissawickersham9912]

They are literally a clubhouse for grown men who want to get together with each other like young boys usually do.

[@Jkstolz]

You weren't allowed to know..

[@boofdaclown7866]

Anyone who is interested in learning about the Freemasons needs to listen to Bill Cooper's Mystery Babylon series. He goes VERY in depth.

[@roxysmith1534]

Good recommendation

[@gabiyoutube6518]

Which episode?

[@MichaelMadcock]

@@gabiyoutube6518 The first 40.

[@derekmcnulty2559]

"Travelling" or vusit3ing other lodges is actually widely ENCOURAGED

[@andersjjensen]

I've had the, uh, pleasure of talking to a few free masons. They have a rather large chapter in my City compared to population size. If a sample size of 7 or 8 is anything to go by I would classify them as quasi-intellectuals of good manners who are close to, but not entirely, preoccupied by notions of social status. Most were small business owners and moderately right wing. But their talk of spiritual liberation and enlightenment does fall a little flat for me when it comes out of someone in the latest fashion suit with a Rolex on the wrist despite checking the latest iPhone for the time...

[@dionh70]

I'm an Odd Fellow, an organization that shares many similarities with Freemasonry, and most of the members of my lodge aren't what I would term "intellectual". A couple of them are outright stodgy with outdated notions of where society should be headed (i.e. chauvinistic douchebags). What nearly all of them ARE, though, is generous with either their money, time, or both, in support of our local community, a core principle of our organization. We hold fundraising BBQs, collect food & donations for a local homeless mothers & children shelter, serve meals at an annual homeless veterans event hosted by our National Guard armory, toy drives for underprivileged children every holiday season, etc.

[@andersjjensen]

@@dionh70 Yeah, that sounds like Odd Fellows all right. We also have an Odd Fellow lodge here, and I see one riding the bus fairly often (He's probably 70. Always with the badged jacket on. Always Wednesday evening.) You guys seem to be a lot more about putting principles to actual practice. I suspect I'd feel more at home with Odd Fellows than Free Masons.

[@eyespliced]

The insufferable integrated advert ends at 1:50

[@JohnGalt916]

Dude I hate it. I literally pay for KZbin for no ads so the creator can still get paid. And these greedy MFers start putting ads in their own videos.

[@philwillett9102]

You mean that "insufferable advert" that allows you to access this information for free?

[@eyespliced]

@@philwillett9102 I'm sorry, whistler already gets adsense from the actual ads youtube plays. I don't need extra adverts on top of that thank you very much.

[@skinwalker3953]

We grew up in New Jersey of the States, Along the way to some doctor or another, we would pass a "Freemasons" building. At no point did we ever assume it was some secretive anything of any kind of conspiracy - probably because a family friend was a freemason and we generally got on good with them and their friends. It wasn't a secret - we dropped them off to a few gatherings for whatever reasons we don't recall fifteen year later.

[@trishawilson1436]

You are saying that the freemasons aren't secretive? What planet are you on?

[@knobbynah]

I've been a Mason for almost twenty years now and I have to say that this is probably one of the best breakdowns and explanation from a person who is not in the Craft. Great job!

[@OrcaneVault]

It also served as the inspiration for many of the rituals, phrases, and hand signs for the endowment ritual in the Mormon church.

[@aaronhiggs]

Most of the church founders were masons. Joseph Smith and Brigham Young were , from my understanding.

[@robertwatson818]

Because they were TOLD to approve it.

[@markfaby3130]

30+ years back I was watching a documentary on a motorcycle gang in Puerto Rico. Their initiation rites were taken almost verbatim from the Blue Lodge.

[@WillieHurt-k7t]

No

[@WillieHurt-k7t]

​@i doubt thatmarkfaby3130

[@ozzyondirt4003]

Sounds like things a Freemason would say 👀

[@kindaslyguy4092]

Who else's preconceived knowledge of freemasons was from National Treasure?

[@Blaskotrain]

I am a Freemason and a Branded Widows Son. I have never been discouraged from visiting other lodges. In fact, many of us carry "passports" to have signed at lodges we visit as we "TRAVEL". "Are you a Traveling man?"

[@scottplumer3668]

So can atheists become Masons?

[@Blaskotrain]

​@@scottplumer3668 Nope. Nor should they desire to as masonry would have no value to them.

[@Darkestlord101]

Speaking as a Freemason this is pretty much on the money.

[@ps00spf]

Fancy meeting you here x

[@PaxTemplar]

No it's not. First lodges were in Scotland in the late 1580's(Aichisons haven), originally there were only two degrees EA and FC. There were a fair few inaccuracies in this. It is absolutely not in the money

[@PaxTemplar]

Also visiting is ABSOLUTELY encouraged and is a very important part of freemasonry. To say it's not encouraged is utter nonsense

[@PaxTemplar]

No mention of Scottish constitution which is worldwide

[@Darkestlord101]

@@PaxTemplar alright mate, calm down. It’s not encouraged everywhere

[@tannerholechek5873]

Fellow masons! Greetings from Durant lodge 45!

[@SkunkApe407]

Morning Star Lodge No. 94.

[@MichaelMiller-qe6fs]

Greetings from Crusade Lodge No. 386!

[@Strokewell]

Hello from Bellend Soaking lodge 25

[@marycunningham2709]

Greetings strand lodge 4812 South Africa

[@SkunkApe407]

@@lastbestplace8112 Freemasons founded this country. You should read a book or two about American History.

[@fracturedkoi1]

I’m the current Master of my Lodge (155 in AL), current Worthy Patron in our Eastern Star chapter, Shriner, and York Rite and WOW! Great job on this video, man! Whenever I watch a video about Masonry, I’m always prepared for wildly inaccurate hot takes and conspiracy but you did your research, sir! Even the comments section here is filled with people who aren’t indulging in the conspiracy! Very, very well done! As so many others have pointed out, we are encouraged to visit other Lodges. Oftentimes help is very much required to pull off certain duties!

[@Kerosene.Dreams]

On your Squarespace add, the word first is spelled fisrt.

[@jeremy5602]

"Facts schmacts. Grand conspiracies are just more interesting apparently." That's actually true. A big part of why people are drawn to conspiracy theories instead of reality is because reality is boring, meanwhile fantastical stories of ancient secret orders controlling the world and a small group of freedom fighters trying to expose them (those being the conspiracy theorists) is more appealing.

[@kokobeatz7222]

Was 2019-2022 not proof enough the conspiracies are true lol

[@RocketCouch]

Did the Council of Dimly Lit Bald People that Secretly Rule The World approve this message?

[@kokobeatz7222]

Lol reality is stranger than fiction.

[@RocketCouch]

@@kokobeatz7222 Only when you invent your own definition of reality. Which is kind of the point here.

[@kokobeatz7222]

@@RocketCouch is it a conspiracy that the worlds governments want a one world government?

[@dionh70]

My wife watches FAR, FAR too many conspiracy KZbin videos, and sometimes I overhear the stupidity. In my direct experience, most of those who propound conspiracies do so as a way to explain why their lives are in shambles, because it's more psychologically palatable to blame mysterious, unseen, or nefarious outside forces than it is to accept responsibility for one's failures. My best counter to all of that stupidity is that I'm a member of an Odd Fellows lodge, an organization that has a great many parallels to Freemasonry, so she has immediate and indisputable proof that such organizations aren't any more sinister than sewing circles or book clubs.

[@johnplaysgames3120]

Yeah, a friend of mine joined the Masons because he believed the conspiracy theories and wanted to know all the "big secrets" and get whatever wisdom, connections, power, and wealth he could from being part of the organization. Over years, he worked his way up the ranks to the highest he could, became one of the heads of his lodge, and discovered that the "big secrets" were just the details of what words and actions you have to memorize for the ranking up ceremonies (which, if you're not a Mason, who cares?) and the rest of the time was spent putting on pancake breakfasts, listening to older members reminisce about "the good ol' days," and talking politics or the state of the world with absolutely no ideas, plans, or intentions to do anything or change anything. He eventually got caught up in some high school level drama with a fellow Mason and the guy's flaky wife (who kept jumping back and forth between the two of them), became the subject of a bunch of lodge gossip, and left the entire organization, disappointed and no better off than he was before he started. I'm sure people (like one of my relatives who is a Scottish Freemason) find lots of benefit from the fellowship and whatnot of being a Freemason (or any other fraternity or organization) but, yeah, the conspiracy theories seem a little overblown. Freemasonry, from what I've heard from members I've known, appears to be just a "secret clubhouse" for adults.

[@NatashaaRosie]

My friend has a creepy, stalking, harassing ex who claimed he was a Freemason. Even today when we tell him that he probably wasn’t really a member of the guild; my friend defends it because he had a ring and supposedly went to events…One things for sure though: He’s a grade A arsehole.

[@maryannwilson6425]

Freemasons: nothing weird going on here! Also Freemasons: secret societies and taking oaths are totally normal. 😂 it's either a boys club in need of serious updating or they have reasons to continue being secretive and take oaths.

[@TheRealist2022]

@maryannwilson6425 But we're not secretive. That's just what the conspiracy theorists will tell you. We're as open as the day is long. We have websites where the membership is listed and our meeting times, dates and places are also listed. We have open days for anyone for free. Some secret! Yes, we meet in private, but all clubs and societies do. We're not a secret society. A secret society, is a group, the existence of which, is known only to the membership. YOU know about us, so we cannot be called a secret society. Yes, it IS perfectly normal to take oaths. Here's a list of people who take oaths. 1. Anyone who marries. 2. Anyone who stands as a Godfather/mother to a child at baptism. 3. Members of the armed forces. 4. Doctors and surgeons. 5. Witnesses in trials. 6. Jurors in trials. 7. The President of the United States. I'm not sure you have thought this through properly.