Esoterica Board

[Solomon]

I have created this board and moved a number of pertinent threads here to emphasize the essential place of esotericism within Freemasonry. This is in response to the resolution by my Grand Lodge to limit Esoteric Research and Practice. I have left discussion of that resolution (linked) under the Masonic Policies Board.

[Tamrin]

Freemasonry is a science of symbols, in which, by their proper study,
a search is instituted after truth — that truth consisting in the knowledge
of the divine and human nature, of God and the human soul


Albert G. Mackey

*

Freemasonry is "veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols"
because these are the surest way by which moral and ethical truths
may be taught. It is not only with the brain and with the mind
that the initiate must take Freemasonry but also with the heart


C.H. Claudy

*

Within Freemasonry there is a tendency to embellish
and add to the simplicity of masonic teachings,
ascribing significance where none was intended;
mistaking visual mnemonics or artistic licence for symbolic depth.
Those outside Freemasonry fall into similar error
with the added intent of deprecating that which they do not understand


Anon., Grand Lodge British Columbia & Yukon

[Tamrin]

FAQ on Masonic Esotericism, The Masonic Trowel (excerpt):

Some Masons have publicly accused Masonic esotericists of intellectual conceit and elitism. In their enthusiasm for what they have personally discovered in their esoteric studies and practices, some Masons have been overzealous in presenting them as the secret or true meanings of Masonic ritual and symbolism. Such authors are at times offensive in their claims that a “real” Mason must be an esotericist who thinks just as they do. Intolerance and narrow-mindedness is no more acceptable from esotericists than it is from any other Mason. Conscientious Masonic esotericists understand that no single Mason or group of Masons speaks for the entire fraternity. They also warmly acknowledge that there are many different interests that men can explore in Masonry, that we are all equal in our obligations to one another, and that our fraternity is united in its dedication to God and by the cement of brotherly love and affection.