Masonic symbols
I commented before that the Freemasons are full of symbols seemingly from various cultures. What appears to be a lotus flower symbol can be seen on this ceremonial plate here. To me, the symbol of the lotus flower is associated with Buddhism.
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The last batch of photos from the Freemasons' Hall, the United Grand Lodge of England.
The Freemasons believe in higher power and the importance of morality but Freemasonry is not a religion by itself, but members are expected to have a religious or spiritual belief. As such, a Mason (as Freemasons are often known as) may be a Protestant, Catholic, Muslim, Buddhist, Jew or any other religion. The Masons perform ceremonies and rituals and take solemn oaths concerning their behaviour both in the Lodge and in society. Members also promise to keep confidential the way they recognise each other when visiting another Lodge. Because of that, the Masons over the centuries have always had a reputation for being a secret society. Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of the less fortunate and help for those in need.
As it happens, 2017 will mark the 300th anniversary of the United Grand Lodge of England, and no doubt there would be special events. The Hall is open for free/ pay-what-you-can guided tours everyday except for Sundays. For more info, visit their web site:
www.ugle.org.uk/freemasons-hall/tours
Masonic symbols
I commented before that the Freemasons are full of symbols seemingly from various cultures. What appears to be a lotus flower symbol can be seen on this ceremonial plate here. To me, the symbol of the lotus flower is associated with Buddhism.
xxxxx
The last batch of photos from the Freemasons' Hall, the United Grand Lodge of England.
The Freemasons believe in higher power and the importance of morality but Freemasonry is not a religion by itself, but members are expected to have a religious or spiritual belief. As such, a Mason (as Freemasons are often known as) may be a Protestant, Catholic, Muslim, Buddhist, Jew or any other religion. The Masons perform ceremonies and rituals and take solemn oaths concerning their behaviour both in the Lodge and in society. Members also promise to keep confidential the way they recognise each other when visiting another Lodge. Because of that, the Masons over the centuries have always had a reputation for being a secret society. Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of the less fortunate and help for those in need.
As it happens, 2017 will mark the 300th anniversary of the United Grand Lodge of England, and no doubt there would be special events. The Hall is open for free/ pay-what-you-can guided tours everyday except for Sundays. For more info, visit their web site:
www.ugle.org.uk/freemasons-hall/tours