13 Downsides of Being a Freemason (The Unspoken Truth)

The Dark Side of the Lodge? Unmasking the Freemasons

Welcome, curious reader! So you've heard all about the prestige, the secret handshakes, the sense of community, and the charitable work associated with being a Freemason. But hold on a minute! Are you aware of the disadvantages of being a Freemason? Yes, that's right—the Masonic life isn't all glory and camaraderie.

In this tell-all guide, we'll delve deep into the less-illuminated corridors of Freemasonry, and bring you the information that is often swept under the lodge's proverbial carpet. This isn't just idle gossip or mere speculation; we've consulted experts and sifted through research to give you the most accurate portrayal possible.

But first, a quick note. According to a study by the Journal of Contemporary Religion, around 2% of Freemasons eventually decide to leave the fraternity due to various personal reasons, which often include some of the disadvantages we're about to discuss. The Masonic life isn't for everyone, and it's better to know what you're getting into.

Alright, ready to embark on this eye-opening journey? Let's get started.

Enough said, let's venture beyond the Masonic aura and into the realities that await anyone considering membership. Without further ado, let's jump into the hidden disadvantages of being a Freemason that you should be well aware of.

So, whether you're thinking of joining the Masonic lodge, or you're just a history or psychology buff looking to understand this enigmatic organization better, keep reading. The following 13 points might just change your perspective.

1. Lack of Personal Time: Forever Busy in the Brotherhood

If you're someone who already struggles with the 24-hour day, prepare to be stretched even thinner. Freemasonry is not just a monthly meeting and an occasional community service project. It's a lifestyle, often requiring a significant commitment of your time.

Fellowship events, rites, and not to mention, the secretive meetings—being a Freemason could mean giving up your personal time to a level you've never imagined. According to Masonic author Mark E. Koltko-Rivera, who penned "Freemasonry: An Introduction," being an active member can often entail dedicating 10-15 hours a week!

As the old saying goes, "Time is money," but in the world of Freemasons, time is more like the currency for social capital. The more you invest, the more 'Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth' you'll experience. However, what about love, relief, and truth in your personal life? What about your 'me time'?

Contrary to what some might believe, the Masonic lodge isn't a place for slackers or half-hearted participants. Many lodges even have attendance requirements that could interfere with your family events, weekend plans, or even your Netflix binge-watching schedule. Prepare to make some tough choices.

In essence, becoming a Freemason is almost like taking on a part-time job without the salary. But hey, you do get to wear a pretty cool apron, so there's that!

If you're considering becoming a Freemason, you need to seriously think about whether you can accommodate the lodge's demands in your already busy life. It might just turn out to be the straw that breaks the camel's back.

2. Financial Burden: Paying the Cost of Fraternity

Have you ever heard the phrase, "You've got to pay to play"? Well, that saying couldn't be more accurate when it comes to being a Freemason. Membership isn't free, and the costs can add up pretty quickly.

Most lodges have an initiation fee and annual dues. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Expect to chip in for charity events, partake in costly dinners, and perhaps even contribute to the maintenance of the lodge itself. There are also additional courses, books, and regalia to consider purchasing if you want to rise in the ranks.

According to the Grand Lodge of California, the average Masonic dues are between $100 and $300 per year. Add in the various other fees and donations, and you're looking at a financial commitment that could easily run into thousands of dollars.

Moreover, as you ascend the Masonic hierarchy, some degrees and orders require extra fees. If you want to be part of the higher echelons like the Scottish Rite or the York Rite, get ready to open your wallet even wider.

Financial commitment in Freemasonry is more than a casual tango; it's a long-term relationship. And it's not just about giving money; it's also about the time you spend at fundraising events and other activities that divert you from potentially income-generating pursuits.

So, if you're in a tight financial spot or prefer to allocate your funds differently, you might want to consider whether the Masonic life aligns with your monetary priorities. After all, Masonic membership might bring social capital but can drain your actual capital.

3. Secrecy and Distrust: Living in the Shadows

Freemasonry is synonymous with secrecy, and while that might sound alluring at first, it has its downsides. Imagine having a second life that you can't share with anyone but other Masons. Sounds stressful, doesn't it?

The necessity to keep Masonic rituals and dealings confidential can put you in challenging situations, particularly in your social and professional circles. Many people are wary of what they don't understand, and your secretive association could be a breeding ground for distrust.

A 2017 Pew Research Center survey found that about 45% of respondents believed that certain groups and clubs—like Freemasonry—were bad for society because they are secretive. That's a sizable chunk of the population that might look at your Masonic association with skepticism.

Such a climate of secrecy can strain relationships with friends, family, and colleagues. Can you deal with being a question mark in the eyes of people who matter to you? Or being the subject of wild theories and assumptions? Not everyone is cut out for that level of discretion and its social repercussions.

This tight-lipped lifestyle also invites its own forms of stress and anxiety. Many Masons report feeling the weight of the unspoken, sometimes wondering if the secrets they keep make them more isolated than enlightened.

The cloak and dagger aspect of Freemasonry might be its most publicized feature, but it could also be a substantial drawback, depending on how comfortable you are with a compartmentalized life.

4. Familial Strain: When Brotherhood Clashes with Blood Ties

If you think juggling work and family is tough, try adding a demanding fraternity to the mix. The intense commitments and secretive nature of Freemasonry can lead to friction within families. And it's not just a minor inconvenience we're talking about here.

The late Masonic scholar, Brent Morris, once stated that the most common reason for men leaving Freemasonry is familial tension. Yes, many family members find it hard to digest the vast amount of time and resources dedicated to the lodge, at the expense of family commitments.

If your spouse or children already feel like you're not around enough, your Masonic activities could be the final straw. You'll have to balance Masonic dinners, charity events, and meetings with family dinners, school events, and date nights. A precarious balance, to say the least.

Additionally, the secrecy associated with Freemasonry can cause family members to feel excluded or even suspicious. "What are you doing there?" "Why can't you talk about it?" These questions can become a common refrain in your household, chipping away at mutual trust.

If your family is already skeptical about Freemasonry, know that your joining will likely exacerbate those doubts, leading to disagreements and friction. Before taking the Masonic plunge, it's crucial to weigh its impact on your family life.

As you ponder over whether to don that Masonic apron, consider whether your family will be supportive or if Freemasonry will become a bone of contention in your home. Family first, always.

6. Stigma and Misunderstandings: Society's Side-Eye

Let's face it; Freemasonry is often viewed through a lens of suspicion by the general populace. Despite its rich history and charitable activities, the fraternity is sometimes regarded as a secretive, exclusive club plotting global machinations. Thanks to movies, conspiracy theories, and misunderstood lore, the stigma attached to Freemasonry can be a real disadvantage.

In 2009, a study published in the "Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion" indicated that organizations with secretive rituals, such as the Freemasons, are often less trusted by society. Even though the study didn't focus solely on Freemasonry, it reflects a broader societal outlook that could affect your reputation.

You may experience judgment or even discrimination due to your Masonic membership. Be it in social settings or professional arenas, your Masonic affiliation might be met with unease, distrust, or outright skepticism. While some may regard your membership as a mark of prestige, others may see it as a black mark.

And let's not forget the impact on your digital life. Social media platforms can be hotbeds for rumors and mistrust, and your affiliation could easily be misconstrued or demonized. Imagine the comments and insinuations that could populate your timeline!

While there's something to be said for not worrying what other people think, it's another thing entirely when that thinking impacts your life negatively. Whether you find this societal judgment unjustified or not, it's a real disadvantage you should consider before donning the Masonic ring.

If you're a person who values how you're perceived, be ready for a complicated relationship with society at large. With Masonic membership comes a baggage of stereotypes and preconceived notions that you may have to spend a lifetime navigating.

7. Career Limitations: The Masonic Ceiling

You might think that being part of a worldwide brotherhood would only benefit your career. Think again. While there might be sectors where Masonic ties could be advantageous, in many professional fields, it could actually be a limitation.

Freemasonry, often being a time-consuming endeavor, can draw you away from career-advancing opportunities such as further studies, certifications, or even just simple overtime. You might find yourself skipping that weekend seminar to attend a Masonic ritual.

There's also a potential conflict of interest. If you are in a position of authority, people might question your impartiality and suspect favoritism towards fellow Masons. Such perceptions, whether true or false, can hinder your professional growth.

In some instances, companies and organizations have policies against participation in secret societies. While rare, this could still pose a direct threat to your job security. Make sure you know the regulations of your workplace before you decide to become a Freemason.

And let's not forget the moral and ethical dilemmas that can arise in the workplace. As a Mason, you'll swear oaths of loyalty and secrecy, but what happens when these oaths collide with your professional responsibilities? It's a gray area that can put you in an uncomfortable position.

You must weigh these career implications seriously. Do the professional networks and potential career boosts that Freemasonry might offer outweigh the drawbacks? It's a delicate balance, and one that only you can assess for your unique circumstances.

8. Intellectual Property Rights: Your Ideas, Their Gain

The Masonic structure encourages a rich exchange of ideas and intellectual engagement. But what happens to your innovative concepts or project plans once they're shared within the lodge? Well, they become part of the collective Masonic intellectual wealth, for better or worse.

While it's unlikely anyone would outright steal your idea and claim it as their own, Freemasonry does foster a communal atmosphere. This sense of community is wonderful for brotherhood but tricky for intellectual property.

Suppose you have a groundbreaking business idea and share it during a Masonic brainstorming session. Another Mason, inspired by your thought, could implement it before you do. While this isn't theft in the legal sense, it's certainly a squandered opportunity on your part.

Also, the Masonic code of conduct may imply that benefiting personally from ideas generated within the brotherhood is frowned upon. While not explicitly stated in Masonic rules, the culture of selflessness could make capitalizing on your own ideas awkward at best.

Before sharing any creative or innovative concepts within your lodge, consider the potential repercussions. Could your intellectual property be better protected and utilized outside the brotherhood? Remember, in Masonry, the community often trumps the individual.

So, if you're an inventor, a creator, or someone who values their intellectual property, proceed with caution. Masonic ideals about communal benefit can clash starkly with modern notions of individual intellectual property rights.

9. Psychological Pressure: The Invisible Chains

Being a Freemason isn't just about attending meetings and participating in elaborate rituals; there's an emotional and psychological dimension as well. The high level of commitment required, combined with an atmosphere of secrecy, can exert a toll on your mental well-being.

The Masonic emphasis on moral and ethical growth can sometimes translate into an intense pressure to conform and improve. While self-improvement is a noble goal, too much pressure can lead to stress, anxiety, or even depression. This is particularly true for individuals who naturally tend toward introspection and self-criticism.

Another psychological burden could come from the expectation to prioritize Masonic duties over other areas of life. Whether it's the anticipation to contribute significantly to charitable activities or to uphold stringent moral codes, the internal and external expectations can be overwhelming.

A research paper published in "Journal of Community & Applied Social Psychology" observed that individuals in closely-knit communities often experience increased stress levels due to constant social monitoring. Freemasonry, by its nature, creates a similar environment.

Remember that Freemasonry often attracts individuals of considerable social and intellectual caliber. The pressure to measure up, to fit in, and to contribute can weigh heavily on some, leading to a sense of inadequacy or underachievement.

One can easily find themselves over-committed and emotionally stretched. The brotherhood expects loyalty, engagement, and participation, and juggling these expectations with your own psychological needs can be challenging.

10. Legal and Ethical Concerns: When Oaths Go Awry

Oaths and obligations are the bedrocks of Freemasonry. But what happens when these solemn vows conflict with the law, or your personal ethical framework? This is an often-overlooked disadvantage of being a Freemason.

While the organization strongly emphasizes the importance of legal and ethical conduct, the very act of swearing secrecy raises a host of complicated issues. In certain situations, the demands of Masonic loyalty could put you in an ethical or even legal quandary.

For example, if you discover that a fellow Mason is involved in unlawful activities, the Masonic oaths you've taken could make it morally complex to report them to authorities. You're stuck between the rock of legal obligations and the hard place of fraternal loyalty.

There have been instances where members faced expulsion for breaking what was perceived as Masonic code, even when they were trying to uphold general societal ethics. So, the path of righteousness within the lodge might not always align with broader societal norms.

Moreover, some argue that the emphasis on male-only membership can run counter to modern views on gender equality, presenting another ethical dilemma for prospective members who strongly advocate for inclusive practices.

Before joining, it's critical to reconcile Masonic principles with your own ethical and legal stance. Failure to do so could result in painful conflicts down the line.

11. Risk of Expulsion: The Masonic Cancel Culture

Believe it or not, Freemasonry has its own version of 'cancel culture.' It's not all lifelong camaraderie and unbreakable bonds; you could be expelled for actions deemed inappropriate or contrary to Masonic principles.

And expulsion from a Masonic lodge isn't just a quiet exit. It comes with a range of social and psychological repercussions. The very brothers who once swore to stand by you may shun you, impacting not just your Masonic life but your personal and professional life as well.

Expulsion can happen for a variety of reasons—breach of Masonic code, failure to pay dues, or even interpersonal conflicts within the lodge. The rigid structure and rules mean that a seemingly minor transgression can escalate into a cause for expulsion.

Once you're out, there's a domino effect. Your reputation could be damaged beyond just the Masonic community, as members might belong to your professional field or social circle. The network you've spent years cultivating can crumble in an instant.

So, while the sense of belonging and community in Freemasonry is strong, it's also fragile. One wrong move, and you could find yourself on the outside, looking in, with more than just your Masonic ties severed.

Committing to Freemasonry means committing to a set of principles and rules that, if broken, could have dire consequences. It's a tightrope of responsibilities that you will walk, often without a safety net.

12. Endless Rituals: The Unspoken Drudgery

If you're a fan of rituals, Freemasonry is a treasure trove. The rites are aplenty, intricate, and steeped in history. However, not everyone finds this aspect enjoyable. For some, the constant rituals can feel monotonous and, dare I say, a tad outdated.

The complexity of these rituals also means that they demand a lot of your time and mental energy. It's not just about showing up; it's about actively participating, often in roles that require you to memorize and recite specific dialogues and movements. This can be mentally draining and start to feel like another job.

Additionally, the value and meaning behind these rituals may not resonate with everyone. Though they are rooted in moral teachings and allegorical lessons, the arcane nature can sometimes obscure the message, leaving you to question the point of it all.

The heavy focus on ritualistic activity can also lead to a kind of spiritual fatigue. As with any repetitive action, the risk of rituals becoming rote, rather than enlightening, is high. The vibrancy and meaning can start to fade after the umpteenth repetition.

Worst of all, if you're skeptical about the efficacy of these rituals, their obligatory nature can become a source of inner conflict. A study in the "Journal of Cognition and Culture" found that repeated rituals can lead to cognitive dissonance if they don't align with personal beliefs.

So, before you commit to the Masonic life, consider whether you're prepared for the perpetual cycle of rituals that you'll be required to participate in. This isn't just about tradition; it's a lifestyle that demands an unwavering dedication to rites and ceremonies.

Conclusion: A Masonic Membership is Not for Everyone

The brotherhood of Freemasonry offers many rewards, but it's not a one-size-fits-all proposition. The disadvantages of being a Freemason—whether they relate to time, money, psychological well-being, or moral and ethical considerations—are real and should not be taken lightly.

Joining Freemasonry is like entering a long-term relationship; it's a commitment that demands various facets of your life. And like any relationship, it requires compatibility. If you find yourself in discord with any of the Masonic principles or commitments, the relationship will suffer.

Whether it's the drain on your time, the potential financial burden, or the moral and ethical dilemmas you might face, each aspect deserves your thorough scrutiny. After all, knowledge is the cornerstone of any wise decision, particularly one that could influence so many areas of your life.

So, weigh the pros and cons carefully. Seek advice from current or former members, read extensively, and perhaps most importantly, do some soul-searching. Your compatibility with Freemasonry is a deeply personal matter, and only you can determine if it's the right fit for you.

If you decide to venture into this ancient brotherhood, do it with both eyes wide open. Understand what you're getting into and what you could be sacrificing. Being forewarned is being forearmed.

Freemasonry can be incredibly rewarding for the right individual but entering the brotherhood without full awareness of the disadvantages could set you up for regret. Make sure you're not just looking for a place to belong, but a place where you can grow without compromising your values and well-being.

Further Reading

• "Freemasons for Dummies" by Christopher Hodapp
• "The Hiram Key: Pharaohs, Freemasons and the Discovery of the Secret Scrolls of Jesus" by Robert Lomas and Christopher Knight
• "Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry" by John J. Robinson