A LOOK AT THE PRACTICE OF SUPERFICIAL ESOTERICISM IN FREEMASONRY

By Iván Herrera Michel

Esotericism in Freemasonry, as something veiled or difficult to understand and explain, refers to the personal insights that Masonic methodology, symbols, and allegories inspire in Freemasons. Since it is subjective, it becomes a complex topic that often leads to excessive speculation or the improper intrusion of religious or metaphysical beliefs that, while respectable, belong to other institutions. And although the subject has given rise to lively debates about what the true and specific esotericism of Freemasonry might be, in reality, there are several interpretations.

 

In any case, Masonic esotericism refers to the teachings conveyed through its symbolism and ceremonies and is based on the perception that there are insights, feelings, and inspirations facilitated by Masonic methodology in pursuit of its moral and philosophical objectives. Moreover, it relates to how Freemasonry inspires and exerts an intellectual, moral, and ethical influence aimed at guiding the Freemason towards a deeper philosophical understanding of the duties he owes to himself and to society at large. When I think of Freemasonry, I am always reminded of that original, almost romantic (and highly idealized) idea of a group of people seeking something beyond the obvious in moral and philosophical matters. I am aware that, in the real world, there are other motivations for joining a Masonic Lodge, but that is a topic for another discussion.

 

Freemasonry, in its purest essence, is not just a place to socialize through a series of beautiful rituals; it is a philosophical system that invites us to become better, both morally and intellectually. Through knowledge, symbols, and reflection, it pushes us to evolve. However, and I say this with some concern, when esotericism is handled superficially, the Order runs the risk of being completely distorted. True Masonic esotericism, if we are to speak of it in contemporary terms, is an inner journey, a personal quest for meaning through the symbols, allegories, and ethical teachings that Freemasonry provides. But this quest, being profoundly subjective, can easily lead to misunderstandings and empty practices if a clear focus is not maintained.

 

I remember the first time I witnessed a Masonic ceremony, long before my initiation. I was almost a child, and it was a Funeral Ceremony at the oldest cemetery in my city. From that time, I was captivated by the mystery, the gestures, and the solemnity of the ritual. I felt that something very serious was at play, and over time, I learned that true Masonic esotericism goes far beyond participating in ceremonies or memorizing a few signs. It is a deep commitment to the meaning behind each symbol. It is as though, instead of only seeing the tip of the iceberg, we are asked to dive down to the bottom to understand the magnitude of what lies hidden. If Freemasonry teaches us anything, it is that what matters is not what is hidden but the process of discovering it—the constant effort to understand the world and find a constructive place within it.

 

Unfortunately, I have seen how many remain on the surface, trapped in the decorative, or as silent bystanders of a theater that ignores the philosophical and ethical richness that lies right in front of them.

 

And it is sad because it’s like holding a treasure map but using it to start a fire. This is a serious risk because when form replaces substance, Freemasonry becomes a sterile spectacle, a “Masonic show,” where titles, degrees, offices, and regalia matter more than personal and collective growth.

 

How many times have I encountered brothers more concerned with their position in the hierarchy than with the teachings Freemasonry offers? More times than I’d like to admit. This mindset turns the fraternity into a parade of vanities that begins to resemble a middle-class club with elitist pretensions, where titles of offices and degrees are everything. We run the risk of losing this legacy if we allow moral and philosophical esotericism to degenerate into superstition and hollow ritualism that takes over our lodges.

 

Freemasonry has been a refuge for thinkers, scientists, and artists who saw the rituals not just as a set of actions, but as symbolic representations of profound philosophical ideas. From the great Enlightenment figures to renowned artists, they all found in the Order a space for debate, reflection, and, above all, learning. But when esotericism is reduced to a series of magical practices without real meaning, competing with belief systems, true reflection is forgotten, and its very essence is weakened.

 

The result is that Freemasonry ceases to be a space for reflection and progress and becomes irrelevant to the modern world. It’s like holding a book full of wisdom but preferring to use it as a lampstand.

True Freemasonry demands more. It requires us to dig deeper, not to settle for what is visible. Because, at the end of the day, what really matters is not the spectacle, but the knowledge, the truth, and the commitment to our personal and collective improvement. At the end of the day, what matters is not so much the ceremonies, degrees, or offices, but the real commitment to our personal improvement and, consequently, the betterment of society.

 

If Freemasonry is to remain relevant in the 21st century, it must embrace an esotericism based on deep reflection. Because, ultimately, what truly makes us Freemasons is not what we show the world, but what we cultivate within ourselves.

 

And that is the task we cannot abandon.