Welcome to Esotericism in Freemasonry
Join us for an exploration of western esotericism and comparative religion through the lens of Freemasonry.



















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Esotericism in Freemasonry 2023
Come join us for Esotericism in Freemasonry Conference 2023 in Seattle, Washington at the Ballard Masonic Lodge on Friday September 30th & Saturday October 1st. Tickets and information available soon.

Our Speakers
Blog posts from our speakers
Previews and blogs from our speakers from EFC2022. Watch for new articles from the 2023 speakers (soon to be announced)
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The disenchantment (and re-enchantment) of Freemasonry
The influence of modernity within the Craft exemplifies what Max Weber described as ‘disenchantment’ (Weber, 1958). I apply the use of this term, disenchantment, somewhat liberally in the argument that follows, but I believe it ultimately remains true to the original observations made by Weber.

Is Freemasonry Esoteric?
Masonry is a progressive moral science, divided into different degrees; and, as its principles and mystic ceremonies are regularly developed and illustrated, it is intended and hoped that they will make a deep and lasting impression upon your mind.
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Elias Ashmole: initiation, alchemy, Freemasonry
The topic at hand concerns this: can it be determined that there are influences of alchemy in masonic traditions of initiation. Specifically, by examining the “Initiation of the Alchemist” (my title for this work) illustration in the Theatrum Chemicum Brittanicum (1652).

Freemasonry in academic studies of western esotericism
In this presentation, I will discuss these anti-esoteric attitudes among freemasons, contrasting them with views of academics, who often make direct connections between Freemasonry and esotericism.

Astrology in the western tradition | Astrological symbolism in freemasonry
Ever since the advent of Sun sign astrology and newspaper horoscopes in the early 20th century, the nuanced complexity of this ancient art has become somewhat obscured.

Gender and Freemasonry
Yet today women are still unwelcome in "Regular” Masonic Lodges and “Regular” Freemasons are forbidden from visiting co-masonic lodges.