Freemasons for Dummies, 2nd Edition

Well, that clears a lot of things up! I'm simply better informed and more knowledgeable after reading this book.I've learned that while I'm not a fan of Masonry, I can easily see how much potential good it can offer its participants and how that good can potentially be returned to the families communities in which Masonic lodges are located.

To begin with, I am not a Mason. However, I had many questions (prior to reading this book) that have now been addressed to my satisfaction. In fact, it's such a well-written book, that it brought to my attention things that I hadn't considered. It was at a friend's suggestion, who is a Mason, that I picked up this book to understand the fraternity a little bit better. In the simplest terms, Freemasonry is very much a FRATERNITY in the most noblest sense of the word. Unlike the drunken brawls typically associated with college fraternities when the word "fraternity" is spoken, which also summons imagery of a unkempt and dirty "frat houses", Freemasonry, as portrayed in this text, is nothing of the sort.As you might guess, I am considering petitioning (or asking) to become a Mason, which is something each individual must do of his own free volition. As I understand it, the fraternity does NOT extend an invitation to a man that he join the (local) Masonic lodge or the fraternity as a whole. I like this.To become a Mason, each man must decide for himself if this is an organization he wishes to associate himself with. Also, does the fraternity/lodge wish to associate with YOU. Are you a "good" man of reputable character and seeking moral and ethical improvement? This thing is a two-way street.Another major point of concern for me was whether Freemasonry is a religion. It is NOT a religion, but does place emphasis on acknowledgement of God as the supreme guiding force in one's life and that one should keep to the proverbial "straight and narrow" of one's faith (i.e., church, synagogue, etc.) - in other words, one MUST embrace the morality and ethical teaching within the tenets of one's own personal faith, and as such, be held accountable to those things by one's Brothers in the Lodge. Personally, I really like that as well.From what I read, if an individual Mason's conduct becomes questionable and inappropriate, after joining the fraternity, in regard to ethical and moral standards set forth by the Grand Lodge in one's jurisdiction, he can be permanently dismissed, disassociated, or terminated from the fraternity. This is usually a last resort, after having been given an opportunity to mend his ways and correct his behavior.The author has done a very good job in explaining a lot of the history and practices of freemasons around the world, but especially as it pertains to freemasonry in the United States and United Kingdom. I encourage anyone to pick up a copy of this book, as it is a marvelous starting point for addressing many of the concerns (and misunderstandings) people have regarding ceremonies, charities, appendant / related organizations, ethics, conspiracy theories, hoaxes, etc.

I was recommended this book when I first started hanging around my lodge. Being the very eager prospect and wanting to know more I bought the e-book and opened it up whenever a free moment presented itself. I feel like this book has a great amount of knowledge of all fascists of Freemasonry as well as some good information to help you grow as a Mason assuming you take that next step and get initiated to receive your degrees.

This is a very informative book. If anyone wants to know more about Freemasonry. I highly recommend this book. I have been a Freemason from twenty five years and I learned a lot about the history of our wonderful fraternity. Be sure to read the oldest known Masonic manuscript the Regius Manuscript written in poem format in 1390. Our nation and the world needs Freemasonry now than ever before. May brotherly love prevail and every moral and social virtue cement us. So Mote It Be.PS Not a lot has basically changed since 1390 AF&AM. Famous Texas Freemasons Anson Jones, Sam Houston, William Travis, Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, James Bonham, Lorenzo De Zavala, Judge R.E.B. Baylor and Rev. R.C. Buckner, Stephen F. Austin the Father of Texas to name a few.

A lot of basic information about the history and present organization of the Freemasons. It's delivered in a jokey tone that can get irritating. I assume Hodapp wants to combat the conspiracy theories that swirl around Freemasonry by sounding as down to earth as possible.The book left me wondering why anyone would join the organization today, but in the last few chapters the author does give his reasons. Reading between the lines, (complaints about political correctness, etc.) Hodapp sounds very nostalgic for the suburban white bread 50s when no one had to justify being part of a club that excludes women. It's an issue because the author goes to great lengths to claim that Masonic lodges are absolutely democratic, blind to differences of class and race. In other words, an unmitigated force for good. Given that claim, it's reasonable to ask, so why is half the human race by definition excluded?

This is probably the best book to buy along with "Born in Blood" on the subject of Freemasonry. I especially like how the author covers all of the conspiracy theories that are out there and some I have never heard of. He also reveals the fact that there are groups who are NOT regular or recognized masons and do get involved in Satanic rituals, sex orgies, and magic. These groups are numerous and he does warn that you must check with Grand Lodge of your state to make sure you are joining a Regular and Recognized Masonic lodge and not a group just claiming to be. This topic is also discussed in the book "Inside Prince hall" which has 2 chapters on how Bogus Masonry poses the greatest threat to the Black Masonic fraternity because most people don't research enough to know the difference.I also like the review of the various Masonic lodge officer roles, symbols, and history of the fraternity. He also goes in-depth into controversial subjects such as Albert Pike, Aliester Crowley, Nazis, and Freemasonry's relationship to Religion. Overall a great book on the subject.

This book is written by a Freemason, so it is safe to say, that what you are gonna read is facts and not speculation. I was referred to this book (by a Freemason) after expressing interest in the history of said fraternity. Not only does this book explain the group's history, but also, alot of important information about human history in general.

Very useful and informative resource both for no members as Freemasons.

Contiene TODO, pero realmente todo lo que un no especialista (e incluso un especialista novel) puede querer saber sobre la masonería. Ameno pero completo.

This is an excellent book for anyone involved in Freemasonry or for those who simply wish to know more about it. It is packed with fascinating information about Freemasonry. It is superbly written and I learned a great deal from it.

Has an easy-to-understand historical perspective which is important for any aspirant or new initiate. Even for seniors.