Re-symbolizing the Cornerstone of Freemasonry
Freemasonry, the centuries-old institution, steeped in tradition, is at a crossroads in the 21st century. With membership long in decline, the once prominent society looks to an uncertain future. Its customs, inherited from a bygone time of Popes and Kings, no longer charm a secular public. In a world increasingly wary of its religious past, Masonry seeks – and must find – a modern place for its ancient symbols.
The Beginning is Wisdom
The Beginning is Wisdom recenters Freemasonry in the modern world, exploring how symbols and symbolism are understood. Readers are introduced to the esoteric foundation of Kabbalah, the brilliant system given under veil to the world nearly a thousand years ago. Perhaps the key to Freemasonry’s future can be found in the distant and mysterious past of Judaism’s most secret teaching.
I can’t wait to read it!
Marissa Mitchell
Author’s mom.
Uncover the meaning of Freemasonry’s symbols for yourself
Starting where all journeys start – at the beginning – the Beginning is Wisdom, reaches back to the dawn of time and space, to reflect light on the here and now. Symbols are unmasked and examined in light of contemporary understanding and modern human experiences. Guided by Kabbalah’s resplendent heart – the enigmatic Zohar – readers are set on a unique path to understanding and imagining the wonders of the universe and every person’s place in it.
Why does Freemasonry matter?
Freemasonry took its modern form during the European Enlightenment. Following decades of devastating religious wars, intolerance and suspicion swept Europe. Controversial beliefs or questionable associations could be very dangerous. Then, as now, Masonry provided a place for religious tolerance and the safe exchange of ideas. 300 years later, society needs that as much as ever.
What does Kabbalah have to do with it?
Nearly ten centuries ago, Jewish philosophers questioned the place of tradition in contemporary society. Kabbalah emerged to reconcile the customs of the past with the thinking of the present. Freemasonry, facing a similar dilemma, might learn from this example.
How are ancient symbols relevant today?
Symbols are how people communicate and think about the world. Since the dawn of humanity, mankind has sought to understand the nature of existence. Where did everything come from? What are the building blocks of the universe? The Beginning is Wisdom connects the past with the present, exploring the symbols by which the earliest humans pondered the same mysteries still at the heart of modern scientific exploration.
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