I work for a company that's based in Israel and they send me to Tel Aviv every once in a while. While I'm there, I try to find time for myself to see part of the cradle of civilization and plan to venture into Jordan to see Petra. I know many Islamic countries have banned Freemasonry. On the other hand, I also know there are lodges in Tel Aviv even with a large Muslim population. I don't want to put myself in danger or cause any offence to anyone. Where and when should I leave the ring in my pocket?
My suggestion would be that when you feel uneasy or are not sure, leave it in your pocket or in your room. There is no need for an outward sign of a freemason, as the the true mason possesses what is needed inside. If you are aware of some countries that have banned freemasonry, and they are close to, or you are traveling through them, do not put yourself in harms way. Knowledge is yours and yours alone, no sense in advertising what you already know. Just my opinion though, take it if it makes sense to you.
I would have to agree, while i'm sure it is nice to be able to wear the ring and have people be able to immediately know what kind of man you have chosen to be, ultimately your safety comes before being a proud mason. As to what countries you should be careful of, I am not sure. I would venture a guess that Israel is going to be safe, but I think the best thing to do would be to contact either your GL and ask if they know anything about the region, or even directly contact the GL of Israel (from what I can tell, they are MS) The Grand Lodge of the State of Israel
I agree with you... I was at a lodge meeting last night and as a newly raised MM the more seasoned brothers of my lodge who I have not had the privilege of meeting started to try me on this particular night… I’m talking catechism were being thrown at me from left to right… needless to say, I was never denied… however, one of the brothers looked me up and down and said, “Brother where’s your light…” me being a rookie stated I do not have any light… my brother looked at me and said that’s the wrong answer… then he said to me since you are my brother I’m going to tell you this… “YOU ARE THE LIGHT!” he then gestured for me to look down at his feet… and my brothers you know what I saw… which was the last step of a MM approaching the East… At that very moment it could not be any clearer, and I thought “Yeah that’s right I am the light…” and to think it took me scaring my knees three times to earn every bit of the light I posses…. Travel Light….
Absolutely correct, my brother. I appreciate your gentle instruction. I just found out I'll be heading to Tel Aviv soon. It seems a tool I developed caught the attention of upper management and they want to meet me. I'll wear the ring when I get the chance to sit in Lodge there.
Whatever you decide will be the right choice I am sure. The important thing is to stay safe on your travels. Good luck and congratulations on the "attention of the upper management". Come home safe.
