The Truth About Freemasonry
Freemasonry has long been surrounded by myths, rumours and conspiracy theories. Some claim the lodges secretly control politics or world events. In reality, Freemasonry is far less mysterious. Its central purpose is personal development, moral reflection and helping others — values that have shaped the fraternity for centuries.
A personal perspective by Franch Hagerup.
Freemasonry has for generations been surrounded by rumours, speculation and conspiracy theories. People who have never visited a lodge often imagine secret power networks, hidden rituals controlling governments, or mysterious activities behind closed doors.
Reality is usually far less dramatic.
Many of the stories about Freemasons say more about human imagination than about what actually happens inside a lodge.
In my experience, public debate often concentrates on mystery rather than on what members themselves see as the purpose of the lodge.
A Brotherhood Focused on Personal Development
For Freemasons themselves, the purpose of the lodge is much simpler.
The central idea is personal improvement.
Through meetings, symbolic teachings and reflection, members are encouraged to develop their character and moral values. The idea is that a person should continually strive to become better — both for their own sake and for the people around them.
Freemasonry is therefore less about secrecy and far more about self‑discipline, ethics and brotherhood.
Historical Roots
The origins of Freemasonry are debated. Medieval stonemasons and their lodges are an important part of its historical background. That does not establish a documented chain from groups hiding from the Inquisition to modern Freemasonry.
For me, the lasting value of the craft imagery is its moral meaning: tools used to shape a building become symbols for shaping one’s own character.
The Birth of Modern Freemasonry
According to the United Grand Lodge of England’s history, four existing London lodges formed a Grand Lodge on 24 June 1717. This was a milestone in organised Freemasonry, not the creation of the first individual lodge.
The meeting took place on St John’s Day.
From London, Freemasonry spread rapidly across Europe.
The first lodge in Norway was founded in 1749 and still exists today.
In the United States, many historical figures have been members of the fraternity. A large number of American presidents have had connections to Freemasonry, including the country’s first president, George Washington.
Membership and Belief
Freemasonry is not a secret society, but it is a private organization. Certain aspects of its traditions — particularly rituals connected to the different degrees — are not discussed publicly.
Membership rules differ between Masonic organisations. The Norwegian Order of Freemasons requires its applicants to be men aged at least 21, to affirm the Christian faith, and to have a good reputation and orderly finances. This description concerns that order, not every Masonic organisation worldwide.
Freemasonry is built upon spiritual and moral principles, and members are encouraged to reflect on their own character and behaviour. The goal is not perfection, but improvement.
A Freemason is expected to strive to be a trustworthy person — someone who helps others and acts with integrity.
Charity and Social Responsibility
Freemasonry also places strong emphasis on charity.
Across the world, Masonic organizations support hospitals, humanitarian programs, educational initiatives and relief efforts for people in need.
Members often participate in charitable fundraising and community support activities.
Helping those who are struggling — whether through financial support or personal involvement — has long been considered an important part of Masonic culture.
The Degrees of Freemasonry
Freemasonry is organized into a system of degrees.
The Norwegian Order of Freemasons describes its ritual system as ten degrees. They form a gradual process of personal development. Offices and honorary distinctions should not be confused with the number of ritual degrees.
These degrees represent stages of personal reflection rather than positions of power.
Symbols and Meaning
The best‑known symbol of Freemasonry is the square and the compass.
These tools originate from the traditions of stone masons and builders, but within Freemasonry they represent moral ideas.
The square symbolizes honesty and fairness, while the compass represents self‑control and discipline.
Together they serve as reminders of how a person should strive to live.
Myth Versus Reality
Every decade or so, media stories appear claiming to reveal “the truth” about Freemasonry.
What is striking is that many of the loudest voices behind these stories have never attended a lodge meeting.
For Freemasons themselves, the organization is not about hidden power or political influence.
It is about self‑improvement, moral reflection, brotherhood and the desire to help others.
In simple terms, Freemasonry encourages its members to try to become better people.
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