THE DEFINITION OF FREEMASONRY

Leon Zeldis  

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            The usual definition of Freemasonry as "a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols" is both too vague and too narrow. I would propose the following definition instead: "A society of men sharing a desire for spiritual development based on three fundamental principles: first, that society can improve only through the improvement of the individuals who compose it; second, that every man is capable of improving himself; and third, that despite all the differences of age, social background, education, wealth, religion and political beliefs, men can meet as equals, learn to understand each other, tolerate their differences, appreciate their qualities, and work together for their own and society's betterment".

           We like to quote that all men are created equal, I would suggest, instead, that all men are created different, but are equally entitled to enjoy the same rights and privileges, and are enjoined to undertake the same obligations.

           I have visited more than once the Western Wall in Jerusalem, the retaining wall of the huge platform on whose top stood the magnificent Temple erected by King Herod, on the same spot where King Solomon built the first Temple. This wall, also known as the "Wailing Wall", is in fact only a small exposed section of the total structure, now buried underground for the most part. What is amazing in the wall is the variety of the stones that compose it. No two stones are equal. They vary in size, length and height, in surface and in color, yet they all perfectly squared, fitting together in perfect harmony, forming a structure so strong and durable that it has withstood the ravages of centuries of neglect, earthquakes, and the depredations of conquerors.

           To my mind, Freemasonry is somehow similar to that wall, composed of men who are, one by one, different individuals, with different bodies and minds, different characters and ideas, yet we can all meet in harmony, smoothing the rough edges of personality in order to build a strong structure of fraternal love and shared ideals which eventually, so we all hope and trust, shall become a part of that spiritual Temple that will unite all humankind.