A couple of weeks ago the picture below, showing representatives from the Leeds Freemasons delivering Chanukah gifts at the Leeds Jewish Welfare Board appeared in the local paper, the Jewish Telegraph. Those pictured are from the two mainly Jewish Freemasons Lodges in Leeds. But does Freemasonry and Judaism mix?
When people hear the word ‘Freemasons’ what are their initial thoughts? A shadowy, mysterious illuminati? A step-up in the world of business? Mysterious handshakes and secret meetings? Something that doesn’t sit well with Judaism?
The reality of Freemasonry is very unlike the conspiracy theories and myths everyone has been told or read about. Did you know, Freemasonry is one of the world’s largest charitable, non-religious and non-political organisations? Tzedakah anyone?
Historically the grand principles on which Freemasonry is founded are described as ‘brotherly love, relief and truth’. It can be explained into a more modern description as ‘Personal Integrity, Friendship, Mutual Respect and Charitable Giving’. The stated intention of Freemasonry is to make ‘good men better’; by reminding them of their duty to society, being law-abiding and remaining conscious of the needs of those less fortunate, including both Freemasons and non-masons alike.
Look at Freemasonry in this light, and it is almost the same as Judaism. In a Jewish view those guiding principles are the same as ‘tzedakah’ (charity), ‘g’milut hasadim’ (acts of loving kindness) and ‘tikkun olam’ (literally ‘world repair’, but generally social action and the pursuit of social justice). Even the ceremonies of Freemasonry have echoes of a synagogue service. Whilst Freemasonry is non-denominational, there are many references to Judaism within its allegory, specifically with regards to the building of King Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem.
There is not, and nor has there even been, any contradiction between Judaism and Freemasonry, indeed many eminent Jews have been Freemasons. Indeed, the former Chief Rabbi, the Very Reverend Sir Israel Brodie was an active Freemason throughout his life. You will find Leeds Freemasons at all of the Leeds synagogues; Etz Chaim, Beth Hamedrash, Sinai Synagogue and UHC.
The Freemasons is a fraternal society that offers the opportunity to connect with other local people as well as community fundraising and volunteering activities. For some members it is a social activity and for others it is about making a contribution to society, whilst some are attracted by being part of a long established, respected organisation and others find it a personal development opportunity.
Although, not to be described as a Jewish Lodge, The Lodge of Dawn has many Jewish members, but also members from other faiths. Most of the members live in Alwoodley, Moortown, Shadwell and the surrounding areas.
Along with the Toy Appeal noted in the above picture, The Lodge of Dawn has recently sponsored grants from the Provincial Grandmaster’s charity fund which contributed a giant potato peeler to ‘Loaves of Love’ run by Chabad Lubavitch, over £2000 to The Zone for a CPOMS and the setting-up of a safe space for young people to access resources relating to mental health and wellbeing and another £2000 to LJHA towards the continued running of support services.
Would you like to read more about Leeds Jewish Freemasons?
The Lodge of Dawn is always open to new members. Whilst an introduction into Freemasonry has previously only been by invitation, The Lodge of Dawn is happy to meet or talk to anyone who are interested in becoming a Freemason, or are simply interested in asking questions about Freemasonry in general. Any man over the age of 18 is eligible to join, and most new members are in the 25-40 age group.
If you are not a Freemason and would like to find out more read our Seven Reason to Join The Freemasons or our simple ‘What is Freemasonry?’ guide.
And if you would like to join The Lodge of Dawn in Leeds, please feel free to get in touch via our ‘Contact Us’ page.