What are the 12 origin theories of Freemasonry?

In this episode of Masonic Muscle, I go through a list of twelve origin theories found in the Royal Masonic Cyclopedia and ask the Curmudgeon Supreme how much he knows about them.

Has he heard of any of these theories?
Does he have a favorite?
Will any of them spark his curiosity?
Will his giant head survive the pressure of too many competing Masonic origin claims?

The deeper question is serious:

Why has Freemasonry attracted so many different origin theories, and do any of them have merit?

This episode solves one Masonic problem:

How can Masons begin studying the origin question without getting buried under myth, speculation, weak claims, and recycled stories?

We discuss the major origin claims connected to:

• the Patriarchs
• the Pagan Mysteries
• Solomon’s Temple
• the Crusades
• the Knights Templar
• the Roman Collegia
• the Operative Masons of the Middle Ages
• the Rosicrucians
• Oliver Cromwell
• Prince Charles Stuart
• Sir Christopher Wren
• Dr. Desaguliers and the 1717 Grand Lodge period

The goal is not to force one answer.

The goal is to begin building a map.

If a Mason wants to understand the origins of Freemasonry, he first has to understand the battlefield of theories. The Royal Masonic Cyclopedia gives us one important list. Now we have to examine it, test it, and decide what is useful, what is weak, and what deserves a deeper investigation.

Have an origin theory, Masonic question, old document, book recommendation, lodge problem, or research lead?

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