Freemasonry Orgin & History
Freemasonry traces its moral and symbolic foundations to the operative stonemasons of the Middle Ages, whose guilds were responsible for the construction of cathedrals, castles, and temples across Europe. These operative lodges preserved professional secrets, ethical conduct, and systems of recognition, which over time evolved into a speculative fraternity devoted to moral philosophy, self-improvement, and universal brotherhood.
The formal transition from operative to speculative Freemasonry culminated in the early eighteenth century. On 24 June 1717, four existing lodges in London united to form the Grand Lodge of London and Westminster, marking the birth of organized Grand Lodge Freemasonry. This body later became known as the Premier Grand Lodge of England and laid the constitutional, administrative, and ritual foundations upon which modern Freemasonry across the world is established.
Symbolically and traditionally, Freemasonry looks to the Temple of Solomon as its first and most significant Temple. Erected in Jerusalem under the reign of King Solomon, and constructed with the assistance of Hiram, King of Tyre, and Hiram Abiff, the Temple represents the spiritual origin of Masonic symbolism. Its architectural proportions, moral allegories, and legendary associations form the central framework of Masonic ritual and instruction, emphasizing the building of a spiritual temple within each Mason.
Thus, while Freemasonry as an organized institution formally began in London in 1717, its symbolic, philosophical, and moral heritage is rooted far earlier, drawing timeless lessons from sacred architecture, ancient wisdom, and the enduring quest for Light, Truth, and Brotherhood.