I remember reading in one of your posts that your based in the US. Out of interest, are there a lot of Athiests, Agnostics or brothers of non-Abrahamic faith in the US Lodges you've attended?
No. In my jurisdiction (each US state is a separate jurisdiction), it is a requirement that you believe in a Supreme being and that you practice Monotheism when you petition, which prevents individuals from the groups you mentioned from joining.
It's very interesting how the rules and interpretations seem to differ from country to country. I've seen similar when visiting Lodges in Scotland, a heavy Christian overtone. During the initiations I've attended in the Netherlands, I've seen a multitude of different books being used as the candidate is asked what book/symbol they prefer (if not Christian). Personally, when asked about the supreme being, I referenced Spinoza's physical theory.
While there is a Christian overtone in the US, I have seen other holy books used during initiations based on the request of the candidate - all are monotheistic practices though.
My priority list:
God
Family
Vocation
Masonic journey
I remember reading in one of your posts that your based in the US. Out of interest, are there a lot of Athiests, Agnostics or brothers of non-Abrahamic faith in the US Lodges you've attended?
No. In my jurisdiction (each US state is a separate jurisdiction), it is a requirement that you believe in a Supreme being and that you practice Monotheism when you petition, which prevents individuals from the groups you mentioned from joining.
It's very interesting how the rules and interpretations seem to differ from country to country. I've seen similar when visiting Lodges in Scotland, a heavy Christian overtone. During the initiations I've attended in the Netherlands, I've seen a multitude of different books being used as the candidate is asked what book/symbol they prefer (if not Christian). Personally, when asked about the supreme being, I referenced Spinoza's physical theory.
While there is a Christian overtone in the US, I have seen other holy books used during initiations based on the request of the candidate - all are monotheistic practices though.