Is Freemasonry a religion?

No. Freemasonry is not a religion or a substitute for religion. However, it is an organization of men who all profess a belief in a Supreme Being, and it includes spiritual or religious elements in its ceremonies. While it is built on the premise that the universe and all life are creations of a deity, Freemasonry deals more with man’s relationship with his fellow man rather than his relationship with his God.

From a 21st century point of view, lodge ceremonies may have a sacred or timeless feel to them. Freemasonry, however, does not judge or interpret or in any way attempt to change the religious beliefs of its members. There are no religious discussions in lodge meetings.

Because of its origins in Great Britain and Western Europe, many of the symbols and allusions to God used in the lodge are taken from the Bible, which can always be found in the lodge, open to a different passage in each of the three degrees. Each man, however, is free to interpret these passages according to his conscience.