Full Description
Take the mystery out of the Freemasons Fascinated by Freemasons? Freemasons For Dummies is the internationally bestselling introduction to the Masons, the oldest and largest "secret society" in the world. This balanced, eye-opening guide demystifies Freemasonry, explaining everything from its elaborate rituals and cryptic rites, to its curious symbols and their meanings. With new and improved content, including updated examples and references throughout, this new edition of Freemasons For Dummies provides the most straightforward, non-intimidating guide to the subject on the market.
* Updated expert coverage of the basic beliefs and philosophy behind Freemasonry * Revised information on the history of the society, including updates concerning its founding, famous historical members, and pivotal events * New coverage devoted to the recent influx of younger membership * The latest and ongoing controversies and myths surrounding Freemasonry * The role of women in a Masonic organization, including opportunities for women to participate in Freemasonry * The effects cultural and political changes and worldwide events are having on the organization If you're intrigued by the mystery that surrounds the Masons, get ready to learn the facts about this ancient order in Freemasons For Dummies.
Contents
Introduction 1 Part I: What Is Freemasonry? 9 Chapter 1: Lodges, Aprons, and Funny Handshakes: Freemasonry 101 11 Chapter 2: From Cathedrals to Lodge Rooms: A History of the Freemasons 21 Chapter 3: The Philosophy of Freemasonry 55 Chapter 4: Politics, Religion, and Freemasons: They Don t Mix 63 Part II: The Inner Workings of Freemasonry 89 Chapter 5: How the Freemasons Are Organized: Who Does What and Why 91 Chapter 6: The Ceremonies of Freemasons 115 Chapter 7: The Symbols of Freemasonry 129 Chapter 8: Myths and Misconceptions about Masons 151 Part III: When One Lodge Isn t Enough: The Appendant Bodies 163 Chapter 9: Introducing the Appendant Bodies: Who s Who, and Who Isn t 165 Chapter 10: The York Rite 181 Chapter 11: The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite 203 Chapter 12: Shriners International 221 Chapter 13: The Extended Masonic Family 231 Part IV: Freemasonry Today and Tomorrow 249 Chapter 14: So Is It Still Relevant? 251 Chapter 15: Freemasons and the Future 259 Chapter 16: So You Want to Become a Freemason 267 Part V: The Part of Tens 279 Chapter 17: Ten Groups of Famous Masons 281 Chapter 18: Ten Amazing Conspiracies, Anti-Masons, and Hoaxes 289 Chapter 19: Ten Cool Masonic Places 301 Part VI: Appendixes 305 Appendix A: The Regius Manuscript 307 Appendix B: Anderson s Constitutions 329 Appendix C: Finding a Lodge 335 Index 347
