I just learned that the modes of recognition are not kept secret in Australian Freemasonry. In my jurisdiction within the US, modes of recognition are the most important true secrets to be maintained. So then what do brothers in Australia promise to never reveal? Do they consider something else even more secretive, or do they forgo the whole secrecy thing altogether in their oaths? And how can my jurisdiction keep off cowans if the modes of recognition are shared publicly (dues card in good standing, I know, but.....)?

Now I wonder if there are things they keep secret that we don't over here. Must be tough to moderate.

Edit: Thank you for your comments, but everyone seems to be missing the point of my question. I am not asking about the nature of secrecy in Freemasonry. I am asking specifically what is intended to be kept secret in Australia? It's really an operative, not a speculative question, in a sense. I'm just curious about practices in other jurisdictions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSBcbpJGWjA

For those who enjoy it, those who already know it but havent listend to it in a while, but also for those who had "mixed feelings" about The Work.

Much love. :)

I’m selling this Vintage Hamilton Masonic Masterpiece watch. Number 23/500. Yes I still have the pins to put the band on the watch, I just took it off to look at the back better. If you are interested please send me your best offer. No box, no papers, and decent condition, and yes it works

I've been reading about secret societies in Europe and their historical role and almost all of them trace back to Freemasonry in some way. What strikes me is that most of these societies had a specific hidden purpose (liberating a nation, political reform, etc.), and secrecy was the whole point. Lower members knew only the general idea ("we work for the good of society") while higher degrees gradually revealed more.

This got me thinking about modern Freemasonry and the 33rd degree specifically.

I've seen conflicting things online some 33rd degree Masons say there's genuinely nothing secret at that level, that the "secret" is the journey itself. Others seem to suggest there's something more. I understand the philosophical answer, but I'm asking more practically:

Beyond the stated purpose of self-improvement through philosophy and brotherhood is there a deeper agenda or purpose that only becomes clear as you progress through the degrees? Not asking about rituals or passwords just whether the institution has a direction or goal that isn't visible from the outside.

I'm asking in good faith as someone seriously considering joining, not looking for conspiracy theories.

Hola a todos. Hace un tiempo que me interesa ingresar a la masonería porque me atraen sus valores, el desarrollo personal y el aprendizaje.
Tengo 22 años y actualmente estudio, trabajo y entreno, por lo que no siempre tengo mucho tiempo libre. Mi duda principal es sobre el compromiso que requiere pertenecer a una logia en Argentina.
¿Es obligatorio asistir a todas las reuniones o existe cierta flexibilidad mientras uno cumpla con sus responsabilidades y participe cuando le sea posible? No me gustaría faltar al respeto a la institución comprometiéndome a algo que después no pueda cumplir.
También me gustaría saber si hay algo importante que debería conocer antes de iniciar el proceso de ingreso o si tienen algún consejo para alguien que está considerando dar ese paso.
Desde ya, muchas gracias por sus respuestas y experiencias.

Cincinnati masonic center was sold, they had an online auction. Long story short, I bought a ton of hats, the ones with the ostrich feathers. well over 20. unsure what the value is, but reaching out to see if someone local is interested in buying some.

Does anyone have or know of a way to review the bylaws of WV's Grand Lodge bylaws. My family has a few members in state, but I'm in Ohio and need / want to review details for some issues at hand.

I'm guessing they are not published online but a link or even older bylaws would help immensely.

I was looking to join the lodge near and I just had a couple questions to the Hispanics as for I Hispanics too. I would love to join the main issue is family and what they’ll think.

I am recently turned 20 and I have been looking into freemasonry as for I align with their teachings and ideology. My questions to yall are

1. What made you get into freemasonry?
   
2. How are you enjoying it?
   
3. What did your family say and what did they think?
   
4. Did you think joining has improved your life? If so what is better.
   
5. I know that you can’t exactly invite somebody to be a mason but would you recommend it?

I know freemasonry runs pretty deep in Mexican history so I’m excited to hear you guys’ answers.

Hey guys, I found a photo of an initiation contract from a French Masonic lodge. I noticed that there was some Hebrew writing and the star on it, and it made me wonder, is Freemasonry connected to the Jewish religion?
I’ll leave the photo here—let me know what you think.
That the photo comes from a french pianist and composer who was freemason and mysteriously died falling from the balcon of he’s friend house in Switzerland after left free masonry he’s name is “Stephane Blet” like is write on the picture

I contacted the lodge of Scotland a few months ago and received no reply.
I had a very well articulated message about why I'd like to join and information about me.
I live in Jordan though, does anyone know how I could actually get in touch?

Im looking to become a Freemason and I’d love to join within these next few months. I will be traveling to Switzerland sometime in the next 5-6 months.

My question is…

1. What’ll happen with my initiation?
   
2. Can I visit the lodge over there?
   
3. Would I receive anything from the lodge? (I’d love anything to take home)
   
4. If I can visit what’ll be like?

And a last one to wind down the Masonic rap collection.
Another one from Brother Ap.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bt0lZ7qbHpU

I have applied to become a mason and I have met two wonderful people (a third is pending because of availability from both sides) and had the most wonderful conversations with both of them. Both were extremely chill and helped me understand in depth if freemasonry would be a good fit for me, which I think it is since its intellectual side attracts me. I just wanted to share how happy I am to have met those people. I really hope I get accepted in due time.

Any help would be appreciated.

Some reason I look a little strange in the photos, not sure why they came out like they did but anyway 😂

It was a great night and an awesome experience, I enjoyed the ritual thoroughly and knew my q&a perfectly.