Page 10 - Global Freemasonry

PREFACE

T his book examines the foundations of the philosophy of
T

Freemasonry, one of the world’s most secret organiza-
tions, and reveals what lies behind Masonic rituals, cere-
monies and superstitious beliefs. The research shows that the Kabbalah,
which occupies an important place in Judaic belief, is also important in
Masonic belief and practice. However, as with our other books on the sub-
ject, it will be useful to remember one important truth in evaluating the in-
formation revealed by statements appearing in Masons’ own reference
sources, work by historians and investigators, and various documents:
Masons’ misinterpretation of certain information in the Kabbalah in the
light of their own interests stems from their own prejudice and flawed
perspective. Judaic belief and practice is not responsible for the false Ma-
sonic interpretation. The criticism made when considering the connection
between Freemasonry and Kabbalistic teaching is not, therefore, aimed at
Judaic belief.
The Kabbalah, which is derived from the Hebrew root meaning “to
receive, to accept,” is one of the main Judaic texts. According to Judaic be-
lief, in the same way that the Torah teaches the form Jewish life should
take, the laws and moral values to be adopted and forbidden actions to be
avoided, so the Kabbalah is a means whereby devout Jews acquire a
deeper understanding of matters of faith. Only people over the age of 40
and who have already studied the Torah and the Talmud (another Judaic
scripture), can receive instruction in the Kabbalah. The Kabbalah contains

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