Austin R. Shifrin, author

Today as it is Monday we return to our examination of “Weekly Masonic Doubts” by Brother Istvan Horvath. I mentioned before, the author does not shy away from controversy. In chapter 6 he addresses the question, “why do we need God”? (Which he is applying here specifically to the realm of Freemasonry). I was pleased with the coincidence that he includes perspectives that I also explore in my essay “A history of oath-taking” which I shared with my Athelstan brothers this weekend. For instance - if we believe it is our duty to be truthful at all times generally, why should a solemn promise to be truthful at particular times be necessary? Also - what is the difference between a person who behaves ethically because he believes that God is watching, and will either punish or reward him, versus one who simply chooses to behave ethically?

Of course he also points out that the requirement of belief in a supreme being is a feature of Anglo-American Freemasonry, while other alternatives also exist (which I mention in my essay as well).

Brother Horvath does not claim to possess some ultimate answer, but challenges us to consider the implications of our status quo instead of simply taking everything at face value.

What are your thoughts?

A great day inducting a new class (12 members!) into the Scottish Rite Valley of Pittsburgh 🦅