EP.39 St. Benedict, Masonic Philosophy, and the Origins of Freemasonry

Did the Rule of St. Benedict influence Masonic philosophy?In EP 39 of Masonic Muscle, I read and discuss an article from Philalethes Magazine written by Millard Lane Fretland, M.P.S., titled:“Parallels Between the Rule of St. Benedict and the Philosophy of Masonry.”This article lays out several striking similarities between the Benedictine Rule of Order and Masonic philosophy. The question is whether these parallels are coincidence, shared moral tradition, cultural inheritance, or possible evidence of deeper influence on the development of Freemasonry.This episode solves one Masonic Muscle problem:How can Masons examine possible monastic influences on Freemasonry without jumping too quickly into either blind belief or lazy dismissal?We discuss:the Rule of St. BenedictBenedictine discipline and orderMasonic philosophyPhilalethes MagazineMillard Lane Fretland, M.P.S.possible parallels between monastic life and Masonrymorality, discipline, obedience, humility, labor, and orderwhether these similarities matter to the origin questionwhat this may mean for the mysterious origins of Freemasonrywhy Masons must judge the evidence for themselvesThe point is not to force the conclusion.The point is to look.Could the similarities between Benedictine order and Masonic philosophy be coincidence?Maybe.Could they reflect a shared Christian moral inheritance?Possible.Could they be part of a deeper monastic influence on the development of Masonic usages, customs, and ritual?That is the question worth investigating.A Mason should not be afraid to compare sources.He should be afraid of refusing to look because the question makes him uncomfortable.This is another step in our journey toward more light in Masonry — while still strengthening the body, mind, and soul.We give you more light — but no light weights.This is the Way.Have an origin theory, Masonic question, old document, book recommendation, lodge problem, fitness transformation story, or research lead?Write to me at:[email protected] Masonic Muscle on Instagram:@masonicmuscleFollow Masonic Muscle on Facebook.Subscribe and follow Masonic Muscle on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Overcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.