I presume that at least some Freemasons who are interested in the more esoteric/spiritual side of our Fraternity would like to explore those ideas as a part of a group.
Assuming that one does, what is the best way to make contact with other area Masons to find out who else might be interested?
I’m asking the question because while many of us travel and visit other Lodges, not many of us end up traveling too far beyond our own areas, but our own area might not have other men who are interested, so the search may need to be expanded. I’m curious if there are good ways to reach out to find others?
I am such a Mason. I make that declaration for a very simple reason. I am very interested in the esoteric, and I know how isolated a person can feel when this is the focus of their Masonry. If you are also a Mason interested in the esoteric, then I am here.
The term esoteric is a wide net, and can mean many things. For some it simply means the hidden knowledge nested inside the symbols and rituals of Freemasonry, but for others it is a system of ritual Theurgy that can include Masonic practices. The answer to MWM Cameron’s question largely depends on which type of esoteric work we are talking about. If you want a discussion about hidden knowledge in Masonic symbols, its fairly safe just to say you are interested publicly and see who responds. If on the other hand you are interested in the Theurgic approach, more care should be exercised, as many misconceptions exist and a brother might find himself prejudiced in his own Lodge.
Another factor that makes this difficult is the broad net itself. The brother who is interested in ‘arm chair’ esoteric, a perfectly authentic approach, would be uninterested I the intricate Theurgic rituals and practices. Similarly, the esoteric Mason who is interested in the practice of Theurgy may have little interest exploring the Masonic history and theories that often dominates the discussion of our symbols and history. Admittedly, most esoteric Masons fall somewhere in the middle.
I know for a fact, there are Masons working Theurgy, as a Masonic practice. As much I would like to be, I am not a participant as they don’t advertise, and it’s an invitation only world. I suspect someone reading this is in the same boat as me. I am hopeful that the times are changing and this topic might be something we can talk about more in public. Even as I write this entry, I am a little apprehensive that by ‘outing’ my interest I am taking a chance. BUT as the topic has come up here before, and I have seen this discussion be very civil, I decided to risk it. When I was DDGM, during my last cycle of official visits, I asked the question “Is Masonry keeping its promise to its initiates?” “Are you getting what you expected based on what we promise, officially and unofficially?” I was amazed at the number of times young Masons said they had hoped for the esoteric, and Theurgic practices, and had not found them.
In my opinion, as we explore ways to revitalize the Craft, this is a thread we should consider. Our spiritual component is what sets us apart, and having the practices of Theurgy available as an open option could provide a real boost of energy to our Craft, and the brethren that practice it could provide real spiritual depth to our community.
“…ritual Theurgy that can include Masonic practices”. I think this statement is more in line with what you are talking about. In other words, Theurgy is not freemasonry, but can use some masonic teachings to attempt to reach an outcome. I don’t think these two things should be lumped together as masonic esoterica. I don’t have any problems with masons studying whatever they want to help them along with their pursuit of that perfect ashlar. Just my opinion, and not trying to be insulting to anyone’s beliefs.
I think that I know what you are trying to say, and I can offer no disagreement.
In my view, Freemasonry needs to stand as a brotherhood that welcomes good men who want to become better men, while casting aside all of the artificial divisions among men.
And I think that generally has held true in our long history. We do have some side degrees/orders that I don't think are actually Masonic because they embrace artificial divisions between men, but I think that generally we have done a fairly good job historically of maintaining a separation between Freemasonry itself, and other smaller groups interested in working on the esoteric side of things.
I don't know how accurate it is, but I've always thought of those outside, but sort of related due to overlapping membership groups as Fringe Masonry. Groups such as the Golden Dawn and the OTO. (I'm speaking of these groups in their historical context, when their founding members were still alive and involved, not what they may have now evolved into.)
>>Even as I write this entry, I am a little apprehensive that by ‘outing’ my interest I am taking a >>chance. BUT as the topic has come up here before, and I have seen this discussion be very >>civil, I decided to risk it.
I too have always held this concern to one extent or another. As you have said, one does not want to be prejudiced in his own Lodge. I think because of that, many of us who are interested in the esoteric stay fairly silent.
I think that another difficulty is found in terminology. We use different terms to express the same things, and that can lead to confusion. Theurgy = Magick = Hermeticism = Alchemy? Yes to some people, no to others perhaps.
You have thrown out the gauntlet so to speak, so I feel it is only fair that I respond in kind.
I am one of those Masons who feels Freemasonry to be religion. Not religion in the same way that the Roman Church I was raised in provided a easily understood pathway to salvation, but religion in that it is a community of people, creating sacred space together, and properly done, supporting each other on personal quests for improvement of self.
I also believe that Freemasonry has a divinely appointed mission in the world. Every single day, innocent people are killed in this world, all in the name of some group or ideology or political scheme or religion. Whatever. Freemasonry is the only meaningful organization in the world that teaches men to put aside all of those differences, and live together as Brothers. I hate to paraphrase the Blues Brothers, but that is Freemasonry's mission in the world, and I believe it to be a mission given it by the Divine Architect himself. From that, I must believe that by working on Freemasonry's behalf, we are doing sacred labor.
Lastly, I believe that much of Freemasonry's symbolism points to the joining, union, of the male and the female. The Lesser Lights for example are to me pretty clearly illustrations of the principal of creation. The active male force (the Sun.) The generative female power (the Moon.) And that which is created through their union (the Master.) I think that the two Pillars that the Fellowcraft walks through is the same symbolism, and that the point within a circle shows the same lesson in a different form. I believe that these symbols point out the nature of God. A great many of our symbols show this same thing I believe, and there is a great deal to be learned there, including hermetic practices, if one had others with a similar interest to make the quest less lonely.
Interesting how the subject of Esoteric Freemasonry comes up on the birthday of the Brother who introduced and brought it to the forefront in my life as well as my home Lodge. That Brother would be the late, great VWB John C. Shull.
He had numerous books on the subject, not necessarily on Freemasonry, but on several esoteric subjects, especially that of Sacred Geometry. In retrospect, I found that my first interaction with the deeper meanings of Math and Geometry was with the 1959 Disney cartoon, “Donald Duck in Mathmagic land.” It might have been the cartoon that inspired me to focus on math throughout school. WV John prompted me to pick the subject back up, and indeed, I picked up other things that interested me in the past, but lost interest in when there was nobody to share that interest in.
Therein lies the problem mentioned by VW Mike, in that there aren’t too many older (I mean in terms of years of membership, not necessarily age) members who are interested in the esoteric subjects; it seems they are more interested in the Brotherhood and Fraternalism. And this is fine! I’m also interested in that aspect of our Fraternity, that’s why we call it a Fraternity! But I have seen with the gentlemen who are inquiring into joining Freemasonry that many are looking for that esotericism. And we cannot assume that location is a factor, as I live in Lewis County, Washington, and there are many who live here who are interested in Esotericism. There is a Brother who frequents Emeth who is an excellent example.
“Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter.” Yes, it’s a quote from a successful science fiction/adventure movie, but there is also a truth to that. We would be wise to acknowledge that truth and to learn more about it.
"Therein lies the problem mentioned by VW Mike, in that there aren’t too many older (I mean in terms of years of membership, not necessarily age) members who are interested in the esoteric subjects; it seems they are more interested in the Brotherhood and Fraternalism. And this is fine! " That is correct brother, but as i enter the last decade(s) of my life, and watch my friends and brothers cross over to the Temple not made with hands, i am more attracted to the evelation of my spirit i feel when our rituals are performed with skill and authenticity, sourrounded by symbols of the infinite, sensing the presence of the Divine Architect filling our Lodge and my heart. That experience always, permanenetly elevates me, if only a little. It is a kind of Magic. As an old Mason,in age and membership (he groans at the thought) its really what motivates me.
>>“Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter.” Yes, it’s a quote from a successful science >>fiction/adventure movie, but there is also a truth to that. We would be wise to acknowledge >>that truth and to learn more about it.
When we recognize the spark of divinity within ourselves, it can, I think, greatly help us in our lifelong quest of subduing our passions and improving ourselves in Masonry.
My Masonic mentor and I were just talking about geometry, specifically sacred geometry this past weekend. When I was first made a Mason, he was really into geometry, and I think that he still is.
He was wise enough however to realize that my eyes were glazing over when he would talk about sacred geometry, or loan me a book about it, so he provided me with resources that better fit my personal interests, which are, as I see it, more romantic explanations of our Ancient Craft.
That I think is very important.
A couple Masons in this discussion have mentioned young Masons talking about a desire for esoteric learning. We need to provide that to them, but in doing so, we need to recognize that what interests us might not interest them. I think therefore that the best thing we can do for our younger, esoterically minded Brothers, is to, like my mentor, have a broad knowledge about what different Masons believe, so that we can direct them towards resources that will interest them.
What is the best way to make contact with other area Masons to find out who else might be interested in the more esoteric/spiritual side of our Fraternity and would like to explore those ideas as a part of a group? One needs to create a Catechism arranged in four parts, {1.} The Profession of Faith {2.} Celebration of the Mystery of the Sacred Liturgy and Sacraments {3.} Living in the Christ Frequency {4.} Christian Prayer and Mediations. This is a basic baseline that creates a matrix of a spiritual and esoteric covenant (agreement). The thing of it is, that you must create it, 1. What profession of faith?, 2. Celebration of what Mysteries of Sacred Liturgy and Sacraments? 3. There is no compromise in the Christ Frequency! 4. What Christian or Scared Prayers and Meditations? OR! who wants to learn more about “G”nosticism? The Templars practiced a form of Gnosticism, a contradiction to the Pope and Catholic Christianity. The Gnostics held that the essential nature of the human is divine. They look upon men and women as gods and goddess who have forgotten who they are. It’s from this predicament the Gnostic aspires to be freed by Gnosis- Manly P. Hall. “It seems to me that the only true Christians were the Gnostics who believed in self-knowledge. i.e. becoming Christ themselves reaching the Christ within, the light is the truth. Turn on the light! All the better to see you with, my dear.- John Lennon. It is believed that Judaism and Christianity was influenced by Buddhism. By my age of 30, I had researched and had come to that conclusion. Today you can find all types of media, including videos that supports that. Fast Forward, all the great Ascension Keepers venerated the White Lady or Lady in White. All the women sung about, by the Troubadours, every Love Song these Mystical Poets, the Troubadours wrote, every love poem is ultimately about her. They believed the Cosmic White Lady, was in every Lady and every man. And by Loving a special Lady on Earth or by Loving another person on earth, we were actually loving the Great Divine Lady.- Dante Scholar, Maria Scorcina.
The following parable origins by Hinduism, Jainism then later Buddhism; A group of blind men heard that a strange animal, called an elephant, had been brought to the town, but none of them were aware of its shape and form. Out of curiosity, they said: "We must inspect and know it by touch, of which we are capable". So, they sought it out, and when they found it they groped about it. The first person, whose hand landed on the trunk, said, "This being is like a thick snake". For another one whose hand reached its ear, it seemed like a kind of fan. As for another person, whose hand was upon its leg, said, the elephant is a pillar like a tree-trunk. The blind man who placed his hand upon its side said the elephant, "is a wall". Another who felt its tail, described it as a rope. The last felt its tusk, stating the elephant is that which is hard, smooth and like a spear. So is our Grand Master’s good question, yet it is like asking, let’s talk about sports, ok which one…? Each Brother will have his own opinion of what is the esoteric/spiritual side of our Fraternity. Unless we approach a person, place or thing, without judgement (objectively) we may be able to discern the light and it’s truth.
>>All the women sung about, by the Troubadours, every Love Song these Mystical Poets, the >>Troubadours wrote, every love poem is ultimately about her. They believed the Cosmic White >>Lady, was in every Lady and every man. And by Loving a special Lady on Earth or by Loving >>another person on earth, we were actually loving the Great Divine Lady.
I'm aware that some Freemasons do find the divine feminine veiled behind our symbolism, in fact I'm currently slowly reading a book about that exact topic. While I can't make many of the mental leaps that the author does, it is certainly interesting.
And it points out one of Masonry's greatest strengths: The symbols stand mute. It is up to each individual Mason to discover what they men to him, in his own life.
>>Each Brother will have his own opinion of what is the esoteric/spiritual side of our Fraternity.
I think this is exactly correct. The esoteric side of Freemasonry has uncountable facets. I think that those who are interested would do well if they were able to find others who share their own views, at least generally and broadly. Simply saying 'esoteric' is not nearly limiting enough to hold the focus of any group of men.
Certainly the Knights Templar, if it is true to its roots, should have a version of esoteric learning, but it would of necessity be much different to some other group. So, I think that if esoteric groups were to thrive, they would usually need to be specialized and small.
So, I think that if esoteric groups were to thrive, they would usually need to be specialized and small. Agreed, there is much to construct in such an endeavor. The model we used in my counseling practice of having 12 persons at max and 7 persons at the minimum in a dynamic group was a professional standard template. In my personal experience in teaching or being in a study group I rather use the model of 3, 6, or 9 persons, the fewer the better. Gratitude’s for your feedback, MW, Brother Cameron.
I am such a Mason. I make that declaration for a very simple reason. I am very interested in the esoteric, and I know how isolated a person can feel when this is the focus of their Masonry. If you are also a Mason interested in the esoteric, then I am here.
The term esoteric is a wide net, and can mean many things. For some it simply means the hidden knowledge nested inside the symbols and rituals of Freemasonry, but for others it is a system of ritual Theurgy that can include Masonic practices. The answer to MWM Cameron’s question largely depends on which type of esoteric work we are talking about. If you want a discussion about hidden knowledge in Masonic symbols, its fairly safe just to say you are interested publicly and see who responds. If on the other hand you are interested in the Theurgic approach, more care should be exercised, as many misconceptions exist and a brother might find himself prejudiced in his own Lodge.
Another factor that makes this difficult is the broad net itself. The brother who is interested in ‘arm chair’ esoteric, a perfectly authentic approach, would be uninterested I the intricate Theurgic rituals and practices. Similarly, the esoteric Mason who is interested in the practice of Theurgy may have little interest exploring the Masonic history and theories that often dominates the discussion of our symbols and history. Admittedly, most esoteric Masons fall somewhere in the middle.
I know for a fact, there are Masons working Theurgy, as a Masonic practice. As much I would like to be, I am not a participant as they don’t advertise, and it’s an invitation only world. I suspect someone reading this is in the same boat as me. I am hopeful that the times are changing and this topic might be something we can talk about more in public. Even as I write this entry, I am a little apprehensive that by ‘outing’ my interest I am taking a chance. BUT as the topic has come up here before, and I have seen this discussion be very civil, I decided to risk it. When I was DDGM, during my last cycle of official visits, I asked the question “Is Masonry keeping its promise to its initiates?” “Are you getting what you expected based on what we promise, officially and unofficially?” I was amazed at the number of times young Masons said they had hoped for the esoteric, and Theurgic practices, and had not found them.
In my opinion, as we explore ways to revitalize the Craft, this is a thread we should consider. Our spiritual component is what sets us apart, and having the practices of Theurgy available as an open option could provide a real boost of energy to our Craft, and the brethren that practice it could provide real spiritual depth to our community.
“…ritual Theurgy that can include Masonic practices”. I think this statement is more in line with what you are talking about. In other words, Theurgy is not freemasonry, but can use some masonic teachings to attempt to reach an outcome. I don’t think these two things should be lumped together as masonic esoterica. I don’t have any problems with masons studying whatever they want to help them along with their pursuit of that perfect ashlar. Just my opinion, and not trying to be insulting to anyone’s beliefs.
I think that I know what you are trying to say, and I can offer no disagreement.
In my view, Freemasonry needs to stand as a brotherhood that welcomes good men who want to become better men, while casting aside all of the artificial divisions among men.
And I think that generally has held true in our long history. We do have some side degrees/orders that I don't think are actually Masonic because they embrace artificial divisions between men, but I think that generally we have done a fairly good job historically of maintaining a separation between Freemasonry itself, and other smaller groups interested in working on the esoteric side of things.
I don't know how accurate it is, but I've always thought of those outside, but sort of related due to overlapping membership groups as Fringe Masonry. Groups such as the Golden Dawn and the OTO. (I'm speaking of these groups in their historical context, when their founding members were still alive and involved, not what they may have now evolved into.)
>>Even as I write this entry, I am a little apprehensive that by ‘outing’ my interest I am taking a >>chance. BUT as the topic has come up here before, and I have seen this discussion be very >>civil, I decided to risk it.
I too have always held this concern to one extent or another. As you have said, one does not want to be prejudiced in his own Lodge. I think because of that, many of us who are interested in the esoteric stay fairly silent.
I think that another difficulty is found in terminology. We use different terms to express the same things, and that can lead to confusion. Theurgy = Magick = Hermeticism = Alchemy? Yes to some people, no to others perhaps.
You have thrown out the gauntlet so to speak, so I feel it is only fair that I respond in kind.
I am one of those Masons who feels Freemasonry to be religion. Not religion in the same way that the Roman Church I was raised in provided a easily understood pathway to salvation, but religion in that it is a community of people, creating sacred space together, and properly done, supporting each other on personal quests for improvement of self.
I also believe that Freemasonry has a divinely appointed mission in the world. Every single day, innocent people are killed in this world, all in the name of some group or ideology or political scheme or religion. Whatever. Freemasonry is the only meaningful organization in the world that teaches men to put aside all of those differences, and live together as Brothers. I hate to paraphrase the Blues Brothers, but that is Freemasonry's mission in the world, and I believe it to be a mission given it by the Divine Architect himself. From that, I must believe that by working on Freemasonry's behalf, we are doing sacred labor.
Lastly, I believe that much of Freemasonry's symbolism points to the joining, union, of the male and the female. The Lesser Lights for example are to me pretty clearly illustrations of the principal of creation. The active male force (the Sun.) The generative female power (the Moon.) And that which is created through their union (the Master.) I think that the two Pillars that the Fellowcraft walks through is the same symbolism, and that the point within a circle shows the same lesson in a different form. I believe that these symbols point out the nature of God. A great many of our symbols show this same thing I believe, and there is a great deal to be learned there, including hermetic practices, if one had others with a similar interest to make the quest less lonely.
Interesting how the subject of Esoteric Freemasonry comes up on the birthday of the Brother who introduced and brought it to the forefront in my life as well as my home Lodge. That Brother would be the late, great VWB John C. Shull.
He had numerous books on the subject, not necessarily on Freemasonry, but on several esoteric subjects, especially that of Sacred Geometry. In retrospect, I found that my first interaction with the deeper meanings of Math and Geometry was with the 1959 Disney cartoon, “Donald Duck in Mathmagic land.” It might have been the cartoon that inspired me to focus on math throughout school. WV John prompted me to pick the subject back up, and indeed, I picked up other things that interested me in the past, but lost interest in when there was nobody to share that interest in.
Therein lies the problem mentioned by VW Mike, in that there aren’t too many older (I mean in terms of years of membership, not necessarily age) members who are interested in the esoteric subjects; it seems they are more interested in the Brotherhood and Fraternalism. And this is fine! I’m also interested in that aspect of our Fraternity, that’s why we call it a Fraternity! But I have seen with the gentlemen who are inquiring into joining Freemasonry that many are looking for that esotericism. And we cannot assume that location is a factor, as I live in Lewis County, Washington, and there are many who live here who are interested in Esotericism. There is a Brother who frequents Emeth who is an excellent example.
“Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter.” Yes, it’s a quote from a successful science fiction/adventure movie, but there is also a truth to that. We would be wise to acknowledge that truth and to learn more about it.
"Therein lies the problem mentioned by VW Mike, in that there aren’t too many older (I mean in terms of years of membership, not necessarily age) members who are interested in the esoteric subjects; it seems they are more interested in the Brotherhood and Fraternalism. And this is fine! " That is correct brother, but as i enter the last decade(s) of my life, and watch my friends and brothers cross over to the Temple not made with hands, i am more attracted to the evelation of my spirit i feel when our rituals are performed with skill and authenticity, sourrounded by symbols of the infinite, sensing the presence of the Divine Architect filling our Lodge and my heart. That experience always, permanenetly elevates me, if only a little. It is a kind of Magic. As an old Mason,in age and membership (he groans at the thought) its really what motivates me.
>>“Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter.” Yes, it’s a quote from a successful science >>fiction/adventure movie, but there is also a truth to that. We would be wise to acknowledge >>that truth and to learn more about it.
When we recognize the spark of divinity within ourselves, it can, I think, greatly help us in our lifelong quest of subduing our passions and improving ourselves in Masonry.
Also interested, but it’s not a regular part of my Lodge (yet!).
I’ve become fascinated by the geometry through woodworking. The books of Walker & Tolpin are great.
My Masonic mentor and I were just talking about geometry, specifically sacred geometry this past weekend. When I was first made a Mason, he was really into geometry, and I think that he still is.
He was wise enough however to realize that my eyes were glazing over when he would talk about sacred geometry, or loan me a book about it, so he provided me with resources that better fit my personal interests, which are, as I see it, more romantic explanations of our Ancient Craft.
That I think is very important.
A couple Masons in this discussion have mentioned young Masons talking about a desire for esoteric learning. We need to provide that to them, but in doing so, we need to recognize that what interests us might not interest them. I think therefore that the best thing we can do for our younger, esoterically minded Brothers, is to, like my mentor, have a broad knowledge about what different Masons believe, so that we can direct them towards resources that will interest them.
What is the best way to make contact with other area Masons to find out who else might be interested in the more esoteric/spiritual side of our Fraternity and would like to explore those ideas as a part of a group? One needs to create a Catechism arranged in four parts, {1.} The Profession of Faith {2.} Celebration of the Mystery of the Sacred Liturgy and Sacraments {3.} Living in the Christ Frequency {4.} Christian Prayer and Mediations. This is a basic baseline that creates a matrix of a spiritual and esoteric covenant (agreement). The thing of it is, that you must create it, 1. What profession of faith?, 2. Celebration of what Mysteries of Sacred Liturgy and Sacraments? 3. There is no compromise in the Christ Frequency! 4. What Christian or Scared Prayers and Meditations? OR! who wants to learn more about “G”nosticism? The Templars practiced a form of Gnosticism, a contradiction to the Pope and Catholic Christianity. The Gnostics held that the essential nature of the human is divine. They look upon men and women as gods and goddess who have forgotten who they are. It’s from this predicament the Gnostic aspires to be freed by Gnosis- Manly P. Hall. “It seems to me that the only true Christians were the Gnostics who believed in self-knowledge. i.e. becoming Christ themselves reaching the Christ within, the light is the truth. Turn on the light! All the better to see you with, my dear.- John Lennon. It is believed that Judaism and Christianity was influenced by Buddhism. By my age of 30, I had researched and had come to that conclusion. Today you can find all types of media, including videos that supports that. Fast Forward, all the great Ascension Keepers venerated the White Lady or Lady in White. All the women sung about, by the Troubadours, every Love Song these Mystical Poets, the Troubadours wrote, every love poem is ultimately about her. They believed the Cosmic White Lady, was in every Lady and every man. And by Loving a special Lady on Earth or by Loving another person on earth, we were actually loving the Great Divine Lady.- Dante Scholar, Maria Scorcina.
The following parable origins by Hinduism, Jainism then later Buddhism; A group of blind men heard that a strange animal, called an elephant, had been brought to the town, but none of them were aware of its shape and form. Out of curiosity, they said: "We must inspect and know it by touch, of which we are capable". So, they sought it out, and when they found it they groped about it. The first person, whose hand landed on the trunk, said, "This being is like a thick snake". For another one whose hand reached its ear, it seemed like a kind of fan. As for another person, whose hand was upon its leg, said, the elephant is a pillar like a tree-trunk. The blind man who placed his hand upon its side said the elephant, "is a wall". Another who felt its tail, described it as a rope. The last felt its tusk, stating the elephant is that which is hard, smooth and like a spear. So is our Grand Master’s good question, yet it is like asking, let’s talk about sports, ok which one…? Each Brother will have his own opinion of what is the esoteric/spiritual side of our Fraternity. Unless we approach a person, place or thing, without judgement (objectively) we may be able to discern the light and it’s truth.
>>All the women sung about, by the Troubadours, every Love Song these Mystical Poets, the >>Troubadours wrote, every love poem is ultimately about her. They believed the Cosmic White >>Lady, was in every Lady and every man. And by Loving a special Lady on Earth or by Loving >>another person on earth, we were actually loving the Great Divine Lady.
I'm aware that some Freemasons do find the divine feminine veiled behind our symbolism, in fact I'm currently slowly reading a book about that exact topic. While I can't make many of the mental leaps that the author does, it is certainly interesting.
And it points out one of Masonry's greatest strengths: The symbols stand mute. It is up to each individual Mason to discover what they men to him, in his own life.
>>Each Brother will have his own opinion of what is the esoteric/spiritual side of our Fraternity.
I think this is exactly correct. The esoteric side of Freemasonry has uncountable facets. I think that those who are interested would do well if they were able to find others who share their own views, at least generally and broadly. Simply saying 'esoteric' is not nearly limiting enough to hold the focus of any group of men.
Certainly the Knights Templar, if it is true to its roots, should have a version of esoteric learning, but it would of necessity be much different to some other group. So, I think that if esoteric groups were to thrive, they would usually need to be specialized and small.
So, I think that if esoteric groups were to thrive, they would usually need to be specialized and small. Agreed, there is much to construct in such an endeavor. The model we used in my counseling practice of having 12 persons at max and 7 persons at the minimum in a dynamic group was a professional standard template. In my personal experience in teaching or being in a study group I rather use the model of 3, 6, or 9 persons, the fewer the better. Gratitude’s for your feedback, MW, Brother Cameron.
While this doesn’t address the question, here’s a link to an article in The Square:
https://www.thesquaremagazine.com/mag/article/202102bridging-the-mainstream-and-the-fringe/
Thank you Brother, I read the article with interest, and was glad to get to know just a little bit about a Mason whom I had been unfamiliar with.