From the Quarries - An Archive of Masonic Lore

Benjamin Franklin - Freemason

This video explores the profound relationship between Benjamin Franklin and Freemasonry, arguing that Masonic principles were integral to his life and accomplishments. It traces Franklin's rapid rise within the Masonic ranks, highlighting his contributions to Masonic literature, particularly his publication of The Constitutions of the Freemasons, the first such book printed in America. The author emphasizes the congruence between Franklin's personal philosophy—exemplified by his "Thirteen Virtues"—and Masonic ideals of self-improvement, brotherhood, and service to humanity. Finally, the video showcases how these values manifested in Franklin's public life, from his civic initiatives to his diplomatic successes, ultimately concluding that Franklin's legacy serves as an enduring example of Masonic principles in action.

Hermetic Masonry

This text by A.E. Waite explores the origins of Speculative Freemasonry, questioning the commonly held belief that it directly descended from medieval operative guilds. The author argues that Hermetic schools, specifically Alchemical, Rosicrucian, and Kabalistic traditions, played a crucial role in transforming operative Masonry into a speculative fraternity focused on philosophical and spiritual pursuits around the mid-17th century. Elias Ashmole's initiation into Freemasonry in 1646 is presented as a key event, potentially symbolizing this transition, although the Waite acknowledges a lack of conclusive historical evidence. The text ultimately suggests that Hermetic influence, rather than a direct lineage, shaped the symbolism and spiritual aspects of Freemasonry, culminating in a blend of operative and speculative practices by the early 18th century.

Freemasonry - The Lodge

A Lesson for Freemasons

Brother Mozart - A Masonic Appreciation

This video explores the significant influence of Freemasonry on Mozart's life and work. Multiple scholarly sources highlight how Mozart's Masonic affiliations, rooted in Enlightenment ideals, profoundly impacted his late compositions, both thematically and symbolically. His involvement provided him with a supportive social network and a philosophical framework that resonated deeply with his personal values. Specific musical works, such as The Magic Flute and the Masonic Funeral Music, are analysed for their overt and subtle Masonic symbolism. The text also addresses the social and political context surrounding Freemasonry in 18th-century Vienna, including both its acceptance and its scrutiny.

The Spirit of Masonry

Channel Masters and Fellowcrafts I hope you enjoy this preview of next week's video. If you have any suggestions for improvement before publication, I'd be delighted to hear them.The public version will be released on Saturday 4 January

The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Freemasonry

00:00 Introduction00:16 What is Freemasonry?03:25 What do Freemasons do?07:03 What do Freemasons believe?10:49 A brief history of Freemasonry14:30 How is Freemasonry structured?18:18 Masonic words and terms22:00 How do you become a Freemason?26:27 What to expect in the Lodge

Freemasonry - The Ancient Mysteries of Egypt and Greece

This 1929 research paper explores the connections between ancient Egyptian mysteries and Freemasonry, arguing that Egyptian knowledge and religious practices significantly influenced later cultures, including Greece and Judaism. The author traces the historical interaction between Egypt and Greece, highlighting the transmission of scientific and philosophical ideas from Egyptian priests to Greek scholars. Furthermore, the text examines the Egyptian trinity of Osiris, Isis, and Horus and their parallels with Greek deities and the Christian Trinity. Finally, the paper analyses the Eleusinian Mysteries in Greece, detailing their rituals and symbolism and suggesting their potential influence on early Christianity.

A Masonic Christmas Special

Merry Christmas to all From the Quarries!00:00 Introduction00:16 The Night Before the Meeting04:40 Is Father Christmas a Freemason?16:05 The Mystery of the Missing Pudding34:24 Freemasonry - A Religion?53:56 St Johns' Days

Freemasonry - The Ancient Mysteries of Egypt and Greece

This 1929 research paper explores the connections between ancient Egyptian mysteries and Freemasonry, arguing that Egyptian knowledge and religious practices significantly influenced later cultures, including Greece and Judaism. The author traces the historical interaction between Egypt and Greece, highlighting the transmission of scientific and philosophical ideas from Egyptian priests to Greek scholars. Furthermore, the text examines the Egyptian trinity of Osiris, Isis, and Horus and their parallels with Greek deities and the Christian Trinity. Finally, the paper analyses the Eleusinian Mysteries in Greece, detailing their rituals and symbolism and suggesting their potential influence on early Christianity.