Veil & Compass

So, you’ve heard the whispers. The allure of ancient secrets, arcane symbols, and the promise of brotherhood wrapped in a velvet sash. You’re ready to knock on the door of Freemasonry. But wait—before you don your best suit and practice your secret handshake in the mirror, beware: not all lodges are created equal. Welcome to the shadowy world of *bogus* or *clandestine* Masonic grand lodges—where the only thing truly mysterious is where your money went.  What *Is* a Bogus Lodge, Anyway? In the world of Freemasonry, legitimacy matters. A regular Masonic lodge is chartered by a recognised Grand Lodge, which itself must be in amity with other regular Grand Lodges. Think of it like a global network of respectable gentlemen’s clubs—only with more symbolism and fewer cigars these days. A bogus lodge, on the other hand, is like a knockoff Rolex: shiny on the outside, but inside? Just a cheap mechanism and a ticking time bomb of disappointment. These groups often mimic the language, regali...

In the hushed sanctum of the Masonic Lodge, three radiant lights pierce the veil of darkness: 📖 the Volume of the Sacred Law , ⬜ the Square , and 🧭 the Compasses . These are no mere instruments of craft—they are keys to the cosmos , glyphs of moral law, and portals to the soul’s ascent. 🌍 Yet across the sacred expanse of Hinduism, another triad glows with divine fire: Brahma the Creator , Vishnu the Preserver , and Shiva the Transformer . Could it be that these two ancient traditions—divided by oceans, yet united by spirit—are whispering the same eternal truth in different tongues? 📖 The Volume of the Sacred Law & Brahma: The Word of Creation 🕉️ The Volume of the Sacred Law is the primordial beacon of Masonic light. It is the voice of the Divine, the wellspring of wisdom, the moral compass of the initiate. In Hindu cosmology, this sacred role is mirrored by Brahma , the Creator, who breathes the universe into being through the vibration of Om and the knowledge of the V...

  For over two millennia—from the time of Plato (428–384 BC) to the dawn of the Renaissance—the prevailing wisdom held that the universe was composed of just five elements. Four were familiar: earth, air, fire, and water. These were believed to form the very fabric of all life—plants, animals, and humankind alike. But there was a fifth, more mysterious element: a divine substance, reserved for the heavens, used by God Himself to craft the universe. Each of these five elements was paired with one of the five perfect, regular, three-dimensional forms known as the Platonic solids. These shapes—so elegant, so mathematically pure—were seen not merely as geometry, but as the very architecture of creation. To modern minds, raised on the periodic table and the discoveries of atomic science, this worldview may seem quaint. We now know of more than a hundred chemical elements. Yet the Platonic solids endure. Their symmetry, their balance, their beauty—they continue to inspire artists, arch...

  🔱 Heat, Feet, and Ritual Beats A Senior Deacon’s Unconventional Guide to Masonic Mastery By Ravi , Senior Deacon Initiated November 2021 🧱 Carving the Stone Breaking ritual into small, digestible chunks turned overwhelming passages into building blocks. Each phrase became a polished stone in the temple of memory—placed precisely, intentionally. 🥾 Walking the Tracing Board Reciting while walking activated a deeper kind of memorisation. It was more than words—it was journeying through ritual. Every step embodied the candidate’s path. 🔥 The Philosopher’s Heat Five 23-minute sauna sessions a week at 80°C became more than self-care—they became contemplative chambers . In the stillness, the ritual settled into memory like tools into their rightful place. ⚖️ Mind, Body, Spirit Together, these practices created a triune approach: structured, embodied, and restorative. And in that balance, ritual became not just remembered—but lived .

  The black and white flooring, known as the Mosaic Pavement , is one of the most striking symbols within a Masonic lodge. It carries deep esoteric meaning and serves as a visual representation of fundamental Masonic teachings. ✔ Symbolism of Duality The alternating black and white squares symbolise the duality of human existence —light and darkness, good and evil, joy and sorrow. This contrast reminds Masons that life is a balance of opposing forces, much like Yin and Yang, Sun and Moon, and Light and Dark . Wisdom comes from navigating both with integrity and understanding. ✔ Connection to King Solomon’s Temple Traditionally, the Mosaic Pavement is said to represent the ground floor of King Solomon’s Temple . While historical records suggest the temple’s flooring was made of wood, Masonic tradition has long embraced the chequered pattern as a symbolic foundation upon which initiates begin their journey. ✔ A Path of Reflection As Masons walk upon the chequered floor, they are r...

  A History of Questionable Masonic Lodges (Now Featuring P2!) The Art of Masonic Impersonation Since Freemasonry’s rise in the 17th and 18th centuries , it has attracted a fair number of opportunists —people who, rather than waiting for recognition , simply decided to declare themselves Masons . These unofficial, clandestine, and outright fraudulent lodges took secrecy to new extremes, sometimes indulging in bizarre rituals, sometimes playing political puppet masters , and occasionally just existing to make a quick profit . From rogue lodges inventing degrees on a whim to Italy’s infamous Propaganda Due (P2) scheming behind closed doors, the history of Masonic mischief is as strange as it is entertaining . The 18th Century: The Age of Improvisation As legitimate Masonic lodges flourished across Britain, Europe and the American colonies , a parallel tradition emerged—the "DIY Lodge" movement . All one really needed was a dimly lit room, some mystical-sounding titles, ...

  Freemasonry, at its heart, is a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.   From the working tools of operative stonemasonry to the intricate narratives of its degrees, every element is designed to impart wisdom and encourage personal growth.  Among these rich layers of symbolism, numbers hold a particularly fascinating and often misunderstood place. While the term "magick numbers" might evoke esoteric practices, for the Freemason, the allure lies in their philosophical and architectural significance, rather than any attempt at supernatural manipulation. The Foundation in Geometry and Architecture To truly appreciate a Freemason's reverence for numbers, one must first look to the craft's roots in operative masonry . The master builder, the architect, and the skilled craftsman all relied fundamentally on geometry and arithmetic. Precision in measurement, the accurate calculation of angles, and the harmonious proportion of structures were not m...

  Masonic Tracing Boards: Windows to Symbolic Wisdom Throughout the history of Freemasonry, tracing boards have served as essential teaching tools, encapsulating profound symbolic lessons within carefully structured designs. Used in Masonic lodges to aid in ritual instruction, these boards offer a visual representation of key moral and philosophical ideas, guiding initiates along their journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Origins and Purpose Tracing boards have their roots in operative masonry, where craftsmen would sketch architectural designs onto floors or boards to guide construction. As Freemasonry evolved into a speculative tradition, these practical drawings transformed into esoteric symbols, illustrating core Masonic teachings. Today, tracing boards are primarily employed in lodges to help communicate the lessons of the three degrees—Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Symbolism Across the Degrees Each Masonic tracing board is rich with allegoric...

  The Link Between King Hiram of Tyre, Hiram Abiff, and King Solomon King Hiram of Tyre and His Relationship with King Solomon King Hiram of Tyre was a Phoenician ruler who played a crucial role in the construction of King Solomon’s Temple . His kingdom, Tyre , was renowned for its skilled artisans, advanced trade networks, and high-quality materials , particularly cedar wood from Lebanon . The relationship between King Solomon and King Hiram was built on mutual respect and diplomacy . According to biblical accounts, Hiram had been a loyal ally of King David , Solomon’s father, and continued this alliance with Solomon. When Solomon sought to build the First Temple in Jerusalem , he turned to Hiram for resources and expertise . In return, Solomon provided food supplies and territorial concessions , ensuring a mutually beneficial partnership between the two kingdoms. Hiram Abiff: The Master Architect Hiram Abiff is a legendary figure in Freemasonry , often depicted as the chief a...

  Introduction: Masonic Temples across the UK, and indeed the world, are often recognised by their distinctive architecture and the air of mystery that can surround them. But what if we looked beyond the façade and explored the deliberate, symbolic geometry embedded within their design? This article delves into the fascinating world of sacred geometry as applied in Masonic temple construction, revealing how every angle, proportion, and orientation serves a deeper, philosophical purpose. The Blueprint of the Universe: Sacred Geometry and Freemasonry Let's start with the basics: what exactly is sacred geometry ? It's the idea that certain geometric shapes and proportions are fundamental to the creation and structure of the universe itself. Think of it as the divine blueprint. For Freemasonry, with our emphasis on the "Great Architect of the Universe" and the ever-present Square and Compasses , this concept slots in rather neatly. Historically, our roots lie with operat...

✅ Royal Arch Freemasonry draws symbolic inspiration from biblical narratives, including those surrounding the Ark. However, it doesn't claim to possess the Ark or be a direct descendant of any group that did. Here's an article exploring the symbolic connections: The Ark of the Covenant and Royal Arch Freemasonry: A Symbolic Journey ✅ The Ark of the Covenant , a sacred relic of ancient Israel, shrouded in mystery and imbued with divine power, has captivated human imagination for millennia. ✅ Its disappearance from historical records amplifies its allure. ✅ While its physical whereabouts remain unknown , its profound significance continues to resonate, particularly within the symbolic landscape of Royal Arch Freemasonry. ✅ Royal Arch Freemasonry , a prominent degree within the broader Masonic system, is renowned for its rich symbolism and its exploration of themes of loss, discovery, and the search for divine truth. ✅ Within this framework, the Ark of the Covenant , thou...

  The common thread is the belief that numbers hold esoteric significance, acting as keys to deeper truths. Freemasonry’s engagement with Kabbalah and numerical mysticism suggests a conceptual link to both Gematria and Bhūtasaṃkhyā , though direct historical connections remain speculative. The occult connection between Gematria , Bhūtasaṃkhyā , and Freemasonry lies in their shared use of numerical mysticism to encode esoteric knowledge. 1. Gematria & Occultism Gematria, particularly in Kabbalistic traditions , is deeply tied to occult numerology . The belief that numbers hold divine significance is central to Hermeticism , alchemy , and Western esotericism . Occultists use Gematria to uncover hidden meanings in sacred texts, believing that numbers reveal cosmic truths. 2. Bhūtasaṃkhyā & Tantric Symbolism Bhūtasaṃkhyā, rooted in Indian mysticism , assigns numerical values to words based on symbolic associations . This system appears in Tantric traditions , where numbe...

King Solomon and Ancient Egyptian Religion Egyptian religion was deeply rooted in sacred geometry , the Eye of Horus , and the Ankh , symbols representing wisdom, protection, and eternal life. The hexagram , known as the Seal of Solomon , is believed to have connections to Egyptian magic, possibly serving as a talisman for divine authority. Kabbalah and Freemasonry Kabbalah, the Jewish mystical tradition, shares symbolic elements with Freemasonry. The Tree of Life , a central concept in Kabbalah, represents divine emanations and cosmic balance. Freemasonry, which emerged in the 17th century, adopted many esoteric symbols, including the Square and Compass , the All-Seeing Eye , and the Pillars of Solomon’s Temple . The Seal of Solomon , a six-pointed star, is a powerful symbol in both Kabbalah and Freemasonry. It represents the union of opposites—spirit and matter, heaven and earth. Freemasons view Solomon’s Temple as the foundation of their craft, symbolising the pursuit of wisdom and ...

  Freemasonry is a rich tapestry woven with philosophy, symbolism, and the pursuit of enlightenment , but it was the English Huguenots —French Protestants fleeing religious persecution—who played a surprisingly crucial role in shaping its modern foundations. Among them was Jean Théophile Desaguliers , a man who blended science, philosophy, and secret handshakes to turn Freemasonry into a structured institution of reason and fraternity. Huguenots: Seeking Sanctuary and Brotherhood Following the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685 , Huguenots faced brutal persecution in Catholic France. England, a Protestant nation, offered them asylum, and thousands settled in cities like London and Canterbury , bringing their skills, intellect, and strong moral values . Among them were artisans, merchants, and scientists , all eager to rebuild their lives. It was no surprise that Freemasonry—an organisation built on religious tolerance and mutual support —appealed to these refugees. It provi...

  The Rogue Lodge: How Propaganda Due (P2) Became Italy’s Most Infamous Secret Society Freemasonry has always had an air of mystery—ancient rituals, secret symbols, and enough coded language to make a Cold War spy jealous. But what happens when a Masonic lodge decides to go completely off the rails and become its own rogue operation? Enter Propaganda Due (P2) —the scandalous secret society that made Italy question whether it was run by elected officials or a cabal of well-connected men in dark suits exchanging cryptic nods. The Lodge That Went Off the Rails Originally, P2 was just a normal Masonic lodge, founded back in 1877 under the Grand Orient of Italy. It was meant to provide a space for high-profile individuals who couldn’t attend regular meetings—think politicians, military officers, and business moguls who were too busy running countries and financial empires to engage in the usual Masonic bonding activities. For a while, it was relatively tame. But then along came Lici...

Freemasonry is built on principles of wisdom, morality, and brotherhood, often symbolised through geometry. Among the great minds that have influenced this tradition, Euclid stands tall. His work, particularly The Elements , laid the foundation for geometry, shaping not just mathematics but the way Freemasons understand order, precision, and universal truth. But who was Euclid? Often called the "Father of Geometry," Euclid was an ancient Greek mathematician who lived in Alexandria, Egypt, around 300 BCE. His most famous work, The Elements , systematised geometric principles that are still studied today. Though little is known about his personal life, his Greek heritage and his contributions from the intellectual hub of Alexandria positioned him as one of history’s greatest scholars. In Masonic teachings, geometry is considered sacred—the divine structure behind creation itself. Euclid’s famous 47th Proposition, also known as the Pythagorean Theorem, holds a special place in...

The Enduring Friction: Why Certain Christian Churches Have Long Opposed Freemasonry For centuries, a persistent narrative has woven its way through the discourse of certain Christian denominations—a deep-seated suspicion, and at times outright condemnation, of Freemasonry. While often perceived as a singular, unified "church position," this opposition is primarily rooted in the historical and doctrinal stances of specific traditions, most notably the Roman Catholic Church , and echoed by various conservative Protestant groups . The question then becomes: why this enduring friction? Key Reasons for Opposition Doctrinal Incompatibility At the heart of this opposition lies a fundamental clash of worldviews and perceived religious incompatibility . ✔️ Religious Indifferentism – Freemasonry’s emphasis on a Supreme Architect of the Universe and its acceptance of members from diverse religious backgrounds is seen by critics as promoting the belief that all religious path...

Freemasonry has long cultivated its reputation for "making good men better"—though, to be fair, there’s no official chiselling involved, and no one’s waving a magic wand. Instead, this ancient fraternity takes a structured approach to personal development, moral and ethical teachings, and character-building. Here’s how: A Focus on Moral and Ethical Principles At its core, Freemasonry is described as "a beautiful and profound system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." It’s a rather poetic way of saying, “We take ethics seriously, but in a mysterious, intriguing way.” The fundamental virtues it instils include: Integrity – Honesty, trustworthiness, honour, and reliability. Essentially, being the kind of person who wouldn’t nick the last biscuit. Friendship – Fostering strong bonds and a sense of belonging. A ready-made group of mates who’ve got your back. Respect – Valuing diverse beliefs and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and tol...

Freemasonry has long been intertwined with celestial symbolism, with its temples often designed to reflect cosmic principles. The Blazing Star⭐, a key Masonic emblem, is thought to represent divine guidance, with some scholars linking it to Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. Sirius was associated with Anubis in Egyptian mythology, a deity guiding souls to the afterlife—mirroring the Masonic journey toward enlightenment. Ancient philosophers like Plato, Plotinus, and Hermes Trismegistus believed in a cosmic harmony between celestial bodies and human destiny, ideas that resonate within Masonic traditions. The stars, in this sense, serve as metaphors for wisdom, illumination, and the pursuit of truth. Equinox rituals in Freemasonry are deeply symbolic, reflecting themes of balance, renewal, and cosmic harmony. The spring and autumn equinoxes mark moments when day and night are equal, symbolizing equilibrium—a key principle in Masonic teachings. One interpretation connects the ...