Is there any risk/benefit in joining the Free Masons?

Question

Is there any risk/benefit in joining the Free Masons?

Answer 1

well theres definitely benefits isn't there,don't know what the risks are though

Answer 2

Depends on what you consider risk and benefit.

With the exception of running across the occasional staunch anti-Mason in the workplace for example, one would be hard pressed to surmise any risk to being a Freemason.

As far as benefits, if your idea of benefit includes material gain, goods, services, favors, status etc. then no there is no benefit to Masonry.

If instead you consider fellowship, experience, knowledge, understanding and the feeling of accomplishment towards good works to be a benefit, then Masonry is rich in such things.

All depends on what you are looking for.

Answer 3

Ignore the Masons and join the Knights Templar instead.  

Answer 4

Let's answer the easy one first - there is no risk. You can quit at any time, there is a process for officially quitting depending on where you are (i.e. have you been Initiated, Passed or Raised), but quitting is a very simple thing and there are no repercussions if you do quit.

As for benefits, freemasonry is not a benefits organization (meaning there is no life insurance policy, no network of freemasons that will help you climb the corporate ladder, etc). The benefits are related to what you put into the Craft - you can benefit intellectually, socially, spiritually, or a variety of other ways depending on your involvement. If you simply join and then don't attend meetings or do anything you'll likely not get any benefit. Conversely if you study the ritual and teachings it can make you a much better person and that can benefit you immensely.

to darkest star --- the only current knights templar organization is part of the york rite and you need to be a mason to join that...

Answer 5

Business networking, scholarships, etc.  No risk that I see.

Answer 6

Kind of weird I watched a two hour segment on them and they had said that they threaten people to keep there mouths closed to the heat.