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Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry
Lively...illuminating. A refreshing example of scholarly detective work.―Kirkus Reviews
400 pages, Hardcover
First published November 15, 1989
225 people are currently reading
1886 people want to read
About the author
John J. Robinson
21 books35 followersJohn J. Robinson was an American author and historian, best known as the author of Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry, which was originally intended as a book about the Peasants' Revolt of 1381, but instead traced the fall of the Knights Templar, which he connected to the rise of Freemasonry. As a result of his research for this book, he became more interested in Freemasonry and subsequently wrote A Pilgrim's Path: Freemasonry and the Religious Right. He is also credited as being the "founding visionary" of the Masonic Information Center run by the Masonic Service Association of North America. He was a member of the Medieval Academy of America, The Organization of American Historians, and the Royal Over-Seas League of London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 16, 2009
I tracked down this book at the recommendation of the Tyler at my Lodge. We were talking just before my 3rd Degree, and I was asking him about books about Masonry, what I might read that had a lower level of mystical BS than the usual fare. This was the title that came foremost to his mind, and so within a few days I had pinned it down at a local bookstore.
Our Tyler (yeah, it causes confusion) said it wasn't a perfect book, and I agree. But I also agree that it follows far fewer flights of far-fetched fancy than other work I've read. Robinson actually did some genuine, serious research for this book, and it shows. A great deal of his evidence remains, admittedly, circumstantial; but it's hard to fault an author for not being able to turn up documentation on an organization that was guarded and secret, before it revealed itself in 1717.
The book is broken into two portions, the first chronicling the travails of the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, aka the Knights Templar, their persecution and disbanding, and what that might have meant for the majority of the members who escaped it all. The second portion dips into Freemasonry as it exists today and attempts to link this latter half with the former; tracing linguistic foibles (a very interesting part of the book); detailing ritual aspects that make little sense on the surface but could be well explained, if his hypothesis is correct. He even takes time to refute, dress down, and mock some anti-Masonic screed that was hot & heavy in the UK in the 90s.
I enjoyed this book and found it informative. It remains circumstantial, with a wealth of assumption pasting it all together. But as I said, for writing about an organization as it was 400 years ago, from which time no records have yet been found/revealed, he does a pretty good job.
Our Tyler (yeah, it causes confusion) said it wasn't a perfect book, and I agree. But I also agree that it follows far fewer flights of far-fetched fancy than other work I've read. Robinson actually did some genuine, serious research for this book, and it shows. A great deal of his evidence remains, admittedly, circumstantial; but it's hard to fault an author for not being able to turn up documentation on an organization that was guarded and secret, before it revealed itself in 1717.
The book is broken into two portions, the first chronicling the travails of the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, aka the Knights Templar, their persecution and disbanding, and what that might have meant for the majority of the members who escaped it all. The second portion dips into Freemasonry as it exists today and attempts to link this latter half with the former; tracing linguistic foibles (a very interesting part of the book); detailing ritual aspects that make little sense on the surface but could be well explained, if his hypothesis is correct. He even takes time to refute, dress down, and mock some anti-Masonic screed that was hot & heavy in the UK in the 90s.
I enjoyed this book and found it informative. It remains circumstantial, with a wealth of assumption pasting it all together. But as I said, for writing about an organization as it was 400 years ago, from which time no records have yet been found/revealed, he does a pretty good job.
January 29, 2010
Convincing take on the connection between Freemasonry and Knights Templar. I have to admit, this book sold me on it. I definitely think the connection makes more sense than all of the other theories propounded thus far about Freemasonry. The book felt objective and fair and without the usual dose of paranoia that tends to follow Freemasonry.
This book led me to conclude that Freemasonry is bit a like a shadow or anti-thesis of the Catholic church. In the sense that if in fact there is a connection between the Templars and Freemasonry then they once were all Catholic but having been betrayed by the Catholic church instead chose to dedicate themselves to religious tolerance, individualism, equality, justice, science, democracy and human rights. They were an organization for dissenters, where one could be protected when they had differing views from church and state.
Overall a great read and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the topics of either the Templars or the Freemasons.
This book led me to conclude that Freemasonry is bit a like a shadow or anti-thesis of the Catholic church. In the sense that if in fact there is a connection between the Templars and Freemasonry then they once were all Catholic but having been betrayed by the Catholic church instead chose to dedicate themselves to religious tolerance, individualism, equality, justice, science, democracy and human rights. They were an organization for dissenters, where one could be protected when they had differing views from church and state.
Overall a great read and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the topics of either the Templars or the Freemasons.
April 12, 2012
Born in Blood must be one of the most well researched book on Freemasonry that I have ever read. The author, John J. Robinson was NOT a Freemason when he began his research and writing quest, and was given completely open access to the Freemason library to complete his research on the single condition that he write a "fair and accurate" depiction of the Freemasons.
I believe he accomplished just that. Although John Robinson does tend to ramble at times and often makes the same points repeatedly, the book is a quality product and deserves to be seen as such. His theories on the origins of Freemasonry and the history of the fraternity are not only well researched and documented, but very likely true.
This book is an excellent resource and I highly recommend it to anyone that would like to learn about the history of the Freemasons. I believe it speaks volumes that John J. Robinson's last request was to be made a Mason and given a proper Masonic Funeral service.
I believe he accomplished just that. Although John Robinson does tend to ramble at times and often makes the same points repeatedly, the book is a quality product and deserves to be seen as such. His theories on the origins of Freemasonry and the history of the fraternity are not only well researched and documented, but very likely true.
This book is an excellent resource and I highly recommend it to anyone that would like to learn about the history of the Freemasons. I believe it speaks volumes that John J. Robinson's last request was to be made a Mason and given a proper Masonic Funeral service.
August 15, 2008
This is my absolute favorite non-fiction book. I have been facinated by Masonic lore probably since I saw the movie "The Man Who Would Be King," (reminding me I should read that book), and with "Born in Blood" feel I have found the Holy Grail of Masonic mystery unveiled. Though it is non-fiction, historical research material, the author is adept at weaving an amazing and simultaneously convincing story of matching connections through research, intuition and serendipity. Along the way he peppers in the most interesting of unrelated discoveries, like why chess pieces move on the board the way they do. I cannot recommend this book more highly. Whether you are searching for definitive answers in the Masonic-Templar question, or just love a facinating revelation of history (Where does our modern banking system originate? Why are "junior" Masonic fraternities call "DeMolays" and "Why is Fri. 13 unlucky?), this book quenches a thirst, a gives you some facts to feel smug about at cocktail parties. Does anyone remember the TV series "Connections" with James Burke? It's rather like that.
January 23, 2013
A very fun book masquerading as an academic endeavor. Especially enjoyable if you like breathlessly related gossip, but only about prominent historical figures, or are curious about what people did in 1350 a.d. before they had cable and had to make their own fun (crusades and grisly torture were popular). Oh yeah, also Masons. The Masons finally show up about half way thought and then it starts to get kinda boring. of note: the author was not employed in any academic capacity during his life, which may explain why he did not feel the need to cite any sources. Additionally, the author is responsible for another book about the Knights Templars and the Crusades, the main subject of the first half of this book. I suspect he simply recycled that book when writing the (much more fun) first half of this book.
July 1, 2013
There are plenty of theories out there about the origins and purposes of Freemasonry. This volume does a terrific job of putting the facts together and creating a convincing argument tying Freemasonry to the Knights Templar. I'm not fully convinced the connection is there, but it's still a pretty cool theory.
Much of the imagery, secret signs and ritualization supports this theory as do many of the historical events which occurred between the demise of the Order of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 13, 1307 and the first Grand Lodge forming in 1717. The observations, however do not prove conclusive.
I heartily recommend this book, whether you're a freemason or not.
Much of the imagery, secret signs and ritualization supports this theory as do many of the historical events which occurred between the demise of the Order of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 13, 1307 and the first Grand Lodge forming in 1717. The observations, however do not prove conclusive.
I heartily recommend this book, whether you're a freemason or not.
June 13, 2024
The author is a non-Mason, medieval historian. The book is thoroughly and objectively researched presenting rational historical evidence. For the initiated Mason or anyone interesting in understanding what Freemasonry is (and isn't). This book deepens the mystery of Freemasonry while also dispelling myths and misconceptions. You won't find the illuminati and shape-shifting reptiles here, but you will find secret societies and rituals, medieval religio-political power struggles, and graphic tortures. One of the most fascinating books I have read. I reserve 5 stars for books that I would enjoy or intend to re-read.
February 23, 2008
A Work of Brilliant Scholarship, Engagingly Written
In "Born in Blood," John J. Robinson, an avocational historian and medievalist, makes a patiently reasoned and thoroughly documented re-appraisal of the Peasant's Revolt of 1381 in England (known popularly as Wat Tyler's Rebellion) and emerges with a truly convincing demonstration of the sub rosa connections between the Templar order, the Wat Tyler uprising and the foundations of Freemasonry.
It had for long been thought that this popular revolt against a pathologically avaricious landlord class, a backward, decadent Church and corrupt, venal and self-involved royalty was but a lightning flash, operating under a disorganized, "ad hoc" leadership. Mr. Robinson has effectively disproved this. "Born in Blood" demonstrates convincingly that far from being a spontaneous swelling of discontent, the revolt was a well-planned and highly organized attempt on the part of remnants of the Templar order (brutally dissolved by the French King and his lieutenant, the Roman Pontiff, seven decades earlier) to avenge itself against their oppressors. The author's hypothesis sheds copious illumination on a host of previously anomalous events and processes and misunderstood connections.
Unlike the overwhelming majority of its members who believe that Freemasonry evolved from craft guilds of medieval stonemasons, the author persuasively links Freemasonry's origins, doctrine, governance and ritual to the once powerful and wealthy Knights Templar. In the face of persecution of almost unbelievable cruelty, the author claims that surviving Templars, having secured temporary refuge in England and a rather more secure home in Scotland, were forced to form an underground Great Society. The author combines scholarly research and a captivating, storytelling style to trace Freemasonry's birth in the bloody carnage following Papal censure and evolution into a globe-spanning fraternity dedicated to self-improvement and good works. His painstaking analysis of the derivations and meanings of words like "cowan," "cabletow," "due-guard" and "tyler," which occur in Masonic liturgy and nowhere else in the English language, is nothing short of brilliant as well as conclusive.
John Robinson makes a compelling argument. This book will be enjoyed by brother Freemasons, non-Masons and anti-Masons alike as well as conspiracy theorists and aficianados of what has come to be called 'alternative history.' I highly recommend it particularly for those interested in the Templar order, the medieval Catholic Church, British history and Freemasonry. This is an excellent book and a pure pleasure to read, and will surely provoke serious thought about the real origins of the Masonic Craft.
In "Born in Blood," John J. Robinson, an avocational historian and medievalist, makes a patiently reasoned and thoroughly documented re-appraisal of the Peasant's Revolt of 1381 in England (known popularly as Wat Tyler's Rebellion) and emerges with a truly convincing demonstration of the sub rosa connections between the Templar order, the Wat Tyler uprising and the foundations of Freemasonry.
It had for long been thought that this popular revolt against a pathologically avaricious landlord class, a backward, decadent Church and corrupt, venal and self-involved royalty was but a lightning flash, operating under a disorganized, "ad hoc" leadership. Mr. Robinson has effectively disproved this. "Born in Blood" demonstrates convincingly that far from being a spontaneous swelling of discontent, the revolt was a well-planned and highly organized attempt on the part of remnants of the Templar order (brutally dissolved by the French King and his lieutenant, the Roman Pontiff, seven decades earlier) to avenge itself against their oppressors. The author's hypothesis sheds copious illumination on a host of previously anomalous events and processes and misunderstood connections.
Unlike the overwhelming majority of its members who believe that Freemasonry evolved from craft guilds of medieval stonemasons, the author persuasively links Freemasonry's origins, doctrine, governance and ritual to the once powerful and wealthy Knights Templar. In the face of persecution of almost unbelievable cruelty, the author claims that surviving Templars, having secured temporary refuge in England and a rather more secure home in Scotland, were forced to form an underground Great Society. The author combines scholarly research and a captivating, storytelling style to trace Freemasonry's birth in the bloody carnage following Papal censure and evolution into a globe-spanning fraternity dedicated to self-improvement and good works. His painstaking analysis of the derivations and meanings of words like "cowan," "cabletow," "due-guard" and "tyler," which occur in Masonic liturgy and nowhere else in the English language, is nothing short of brilliant as well as conclusive.
John Robinson makes a compelling argument. This book will be enjoyed by brother Freemasons, non-Masons and anti-Masons alike as well as conspiracy theorists and aficianados of what has come to be called 'alternative history.' I highly recommend it particularly for those interested in the Templar order, the medieval Catholic Church, British history and Freemasonry. This is an excellent book and a pure pleasure to read, and will surely provoke serious thought about the real origins of the Masonic Craft.
September 8, 2020
Old Bill Cooper once said that if you ever wanted to learn about Freemasonry and its supposed connections to the Knights Templar of old, then look no further than Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry by John J Robinson. Though I'm not a die hard follower of all of Mr. Cooper's theories, there are some topics he would delve into, with that exhausted history teacher voice of his, in his classic Hour of the Time radio shows that would always get me thinking. Freemasonry, the Knights Templar, and secret societies in general were some of those topics.
From a research perspective, I can't find any fault with Mr. Robinson's (a non-freemason) work here. He presents all of his findings as thoroughly and objectively as possible, complete with and appendix and bibliography. The primary objective is to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that the origins of Freemasonry came not from some mythical stonemason guild during the medieval ages, but rather the compass and square rose from the ashes of the "heretical" Knights Templar order. I use air quotes around the word heretical for a reason. Once you learn about Pope Clement V and King Philip IV of France working together against the Templars in favor of the Knights Hospitaller, it just makes sense.
From a literary perspective, it's as straight forward as it gets and manages to avoid all humdrum trappings that non-fiction books such as these always seem to fall into. It isn't overly exciting or anything, but it is readable enough to keep the pages turning, to the author's credit. Ultimately, if the subject matter is of interest to you then I would say that this book deserves a spot in your library.
From a research perspective, I can't find any fault with Mr. Robinson's (a non-freemason) work here. He presents all of his findings as thoroughly and objectively as possible, complete with and appendix and bibliography. The primary objective is to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that the origins of Freemasonry came not from some mythical stonemason guild during the medieval ages, but rather the compass and square rose from the ashes of the "heretical" Knights Templar order. I use air quotes around the word heretical for a reason. Once you learn about Pope Clement V and King Philip IV of France working together against the Templars in favor of the Knights Hospitaller, it just makes sense.
From a literary perspective, it's as straight forward as it gets and manages to avoid all humdrum trappings that non-fiction books such as these always seem to fall into. It isn't overly exciting or anything, but it is readable enough to keep the pages turning, to the author's credit. Ultimately, if the subject matter is of interest to you then I would say that this book deserves a spot in your library.
September 13, 2011
Interesting argument that attempts to tie the origins of Free Masonry to the Knights Templar. The author presents a strong argument and challenges other histories of the origins and purpose of the Free Masons. Robinson does a pretty good job of arguing that the Knights Templar were broken by a conspiracy backed by the Catholic Church. But, since England was partially broken away from Catholocism, and Scotland even more so, the British Isles provided safe haven for the Templars, although underground. He shows how the Free Mason traditions grew from the need to keep together as a secret society, forming secret codes that could be used to reveal one member to another.
He does an outstanding job of painting the history of England and France from the period of the last Crusade through the Elizabethan Era when the Free Masons revealed themselve to society.
My only complaint is that, while presenting an interesting and logical argument, he presents no hard evidence to support his conjectures. So, much like the books written over the years villainizing the Masons with no basis in fact, this is simply an argument that presents an alternative theory.
I am not a Free Mason. My Grandfather was a Free Mason in New York, but my father did not join. I originally chose to read this to learn more about what Free Masonry was about. The book does a nice job explaining the role of Free Masons in modern society. So, I accomplished my learning goal.
He does an outstanding job of painting the history of England and France from the period of the last Crusade through the Elizabethan Era when the Free Masons revealed themselve to society.
My only complaint is that, while presenting an interesting and logical argument, he presents no hard evidence to support his conjectures. So, much like the books written over the years villainizing the Masons with no basis in fact, this is simply an argument that presents an alternative theory.
I am not a Free Mason. My Grandfather was a Free Mason in New York, but my father did not join. I originally chose to read this to learn more about what Free Masonry was about. The book does a nice job explaining the role of Free Masons in modern society. So, I accomplished my learning goal.
February 11, 2013
The title of this book was a bit misleading to me. "Born in Blood" infers a sinister and murderous founding of Freemasonry. In fact, the book is rather positive about the Masons while holding onto its partiality (the author is not a Mason).
What the title refers to is the Peasant Revolt of the 14th century and the unjust butchering of the Knights Templar, and how these events coincided with the founding of Freemasonry. Linking up these historical happenings is the interesting parts of the book. Through the middle sections, the author delves into the etymology of particular Masonic ritual and other minutiae; frankly I had a hard time getting through this part. But the book picks back up again and even includes the official Papal condemnation of Freemasonry, issued in the 19th Century.
This book definitely lifted the veil on some of the mysteries and misconceptions of the Masons, and makes some of the seemingly nefarious rituals and history understandable and even respectable. A short read, and a decent one if you are interested.
What the title refers to is the Peasant Revolt of the 14th century and the unjust butchering of the Knights Templar, and how these events coincided with the founding of Freemasonry. Linking up these historical happenings is the interesting parts of the book. Through the middle sections, the author delves into the etymology of particular Masonic ritual and other minutiae; frankly I had a hard time getting through this part. But the book picks back up again and even includes the official Papal condemnation of Freemasonry, issued in the 19th Century.
This book definitely lifted the veil on some of the mysteries and misconceptions of the Masons, and makes some of the seemingly nefarious rituals and history understandable and even respectable. A short read, and a decent one if you are interested.
February 21, 2021
Enjoyed the book because it offered a few perspectives that I’ve never heard. Getting into the book was a bit difficult to follow if you didn’t know about some of the history before reading this (which I didn’t). Robinson was introducing new people every sentence and it was a bit dizzying. About 70 pages in, the book started to flow a bit better for me. I really did enjoy how Robinson suggested plausible explanations for some of Freemasonry’s origins. He makes very cogent arguments, but I do think some of his writing is a bit sensational. The last couple chapters took kind of a surprising turn, where Robinson comes off as a bit defensive and aggressive towards another author. While the other author was most likely defamatory and incorrect on a lot of things, don’t think that Robinson should have let his opinions and judgments into his own book.
August 9, 2012
This book, with certainty, falls into the category of “speculative” or “alternative” history. However, even alternative histories are built on interpretations of accepted histories. Robinson offers a very interesting history of the Peasants War, suggesting possible Templar ties to the uprising. He moves to suggest that there existed a connection between the post-Templar society of the Peasant War and the pre-Grand Lodge traditions of Freemasonry. Again, speculative in its historical assumptions, it provides an interesting look into the possibly Medieval origins of Freemasonry.
February 21, 2013
Robinson's thesis (which he defends mystery-novel style through a gripping historical tour) is that Freemasonry was born in the ashes of the Knights Templar order when the Knights were forced to go underground. I haven't read an ounce of Freemason stuff elsewhere, but based on Robinson's proof, I'd buy it. And since I read this primarily to get an idea of what secret organizations are like, I could easily ignore his out-to-lunch vision of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity coming together in one happy temple. There he is simply loco.
November 12, 2017
If you've ever been interested in the Freemasons or are simply interested in the history of it all, this is the book to read. Very simple to understand, yet very informative.
January 16, 2022
I went into this book hoping to learn more about the Masonic traditions. Instead, for the first half, I was treated to an entire dissertation of the crusades (Robinson felt this was necessary to provide credence to his claim that Freemasonry came about because of the persecutions of the Knights Templar.) I can't say I agree or disagree with this claim as I didn't read the book for that.
The second half was only mildly better. I came out knowing a little more but I still have unanswered questions. He talked about the 3 degrees (Entrant, Fellow and Master). Perfect. But what does one have to do to transition to the next level. No mention of that. How does one become a Mason? Is it as simple as going to your local lodge, professing a belief in a Supreme Being and bang, you're in? Again, no mention of these things.
An entire chapter was devoted to trashing a different authors book on Mason's (Stephen Knight). I think this chapter was a waste of my time and added nothing to the book. Not to mention, Robinson doesn't disguise his disdain for Mr. Knight or his book. That was in poor taste.
As for Robinson's style, I found it easy to read and focus on. He explained things and provided specific evidence to support any claims he made.
If you're looking for that picture of what goes on at the lodge, this is not the book to help with that.
The second half was only mildly better. I came out knowing a little more but I still have unanswered questions. He talked about the 3 degrees (Entrant, Fellow and Master). Perfect. But what does one have to do to transition to the next level. No mention of that. How does one become a Mason? Is it as simple as going to your local lodge, professing a belief in a Supreme Being and bang, you're in? Again, no mention of these things.
An entire chapter was devoted to trashing a different authors book on Mason's (Stephen Knight). I think this chapter was a waste of my time and added nothing to the book. Not to mention, Robinson doesn't disguise his disdain for Mr. Knight or his book. That was in poor taste.
As for Robinson's style, I found it easy to read and focus on. He explained things and provided specific evidence to support any claims he made.
If you're looking for that picture of what goes on at the lodge, this is not the book to help with that.
July 11, 2021
Refreshingly down-to-earth and logical in terms of supporting the hypothesis that the Knights Templar, suppressed by pope and king, lived on in a society of mutual protection that became to be known as the Freemasons. This book deserves credit for that and duly earns my accolades.
Lost 2 stars for me, however, because:
1) Most of what is discussed in part one seems irrelevant and inconsequential vis a vís the investigation; the author has us dragged through the intricacies of much British history which seems to serve no purpose other than to waste one’s time. I may go so far as to say, if you are knowledgeable on the history of the Knights Templar and the myths that surround them, consider skipping straight to the much more interesting and revealing part 2.
2) The amount of repetition in this book really starts to build up after a while. The occasional reminder here and there of previously discussed matters is fine and at times, helpful. When the author starts introducing each new chapter with the revelations we have just seen, as if for the first time, however, that can really discourage further reading.
Overall, in my opinion, it is a good book, well-researched and historically valuable, but by no means an enjoyable read that warrants anticipation.
Lost 2 stars for me, however, because:
1) Most of what is discussed in part one seems irrelevant and inconsequential vis a vís the investigation; the author has us dragged through the intricacies of much British history which seems to serve no purpose other than to waste one’s time. I may go so far as to say, if you are knowledgeable on the history of the Knights Templar and the myths that surround them, consider skipping straight to the much more interesting and revealing part 2.
2) The amount of repetition in this book really starts to build up after a while. The occasional reminder here and there of previously discussed matters is fine and at times, helpful. When the author starts introducing each new chapter with the revelations we have just seen, as if for the first time, however, that can really discourage further reading.
Overall, in my opinion, it is a good book, well-researched and historically valuable, but by no means an enjoyable read that warrants anticipation.
December 8, 2019
Born in Blood is well researched and written: the story of the first hostile takeover in the banking and real estate business. It is singular, to my knowledge, in the historical analysis of the conspiracy by the Papacy, Phillipe IV and the Hospitallers to merge the Templars and the Hospitallers and consolidate power under the Holy See in preparation for that Office's medieval atrocities against mankind in the name of the King of Kings and Prince of Peace.
Born in Blood provides well considered, balanced speculation on the social political circumstances that drove the Knights Templar underground and the insanity and upheaval of the politically motivated religious persecutions on the Continent, Scotland and England. from the Peasants Revolt in the 14th century to the establishment of the American Colonies, Born in Blood provides a thoughtful lens through which the principles of fraternity and brotherhood espoused by the Free Masons can be understood.
With all of the uninformed hyperbole about Free Masonry this is a must read for any student of medieval history or the origins of the largest fraternal order on earth.
Born in Blood provides well considered, balanced speculation on the social political circumstances that drove the Knights Templar underground and the insanity and upheaval of the politically motivated religious persecutions on the Continent, Scotland and England. from the Peasants Revolt in the 14th century to the establishment of the American Colonies, Born in Blood provides a thoughtful lens through which the principles of fraternity and brotherhood espoused by the Free Masons can be understood.
With all of the uninformed hyperbole about Free Masonry this is a must read for any student of medieval history or the origins of the largest fraternal order on earth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2019
I decided to take a look into the subject of Masonry and The Knights Templar after reading the Da Vinci Code. The book was amazing and the theory was intriguing specially that I’m kind of familiar with Masonry (or thought I was before reading the book).
I always thought of Masonry as illuminati to be some mystery because of all the things I saw on YouTube about devil worship or brain washing and this super secret cult that make celebrities what they in exchange of agreeing to worship satan and brain wash the audience.
This was -according to this book- BS. Free masons have nothing to do with that, not even a little bit close, all that is just media boasting and publicity. It turns out to be just a cult founded due to church injustice and genocide.
However, the book is unfulfilling in some way, I still have many questions, but it might the simple fact that the subject of Free Masonry is just too big to cover in one book.
I always thought of Masonry as illuminati to be some mystery because of all the things I saw on YouTube about devil worship or brain washing and this super secret cult that make celebrities what they in exchange of agreeing to worship satan and brain wash the audience.
This was -according to this book- BS. Free masons have nothing to do with that, not even a little bit close, all that is just media boasting and publicity. It turns out to be just a cult founded due to church injustice and genocide.
However, the book is unfulfilling in some way, I still have many questions, but it might the simple fact that the subject of Free Masonry is just too big to cover in one book.
February 24, 2024
Born in Blood: the Lost Secrets of Freemasonry by John J Robinson. I found this book interesting. Robinson is a historian so he makes clear that a lot of what he is presenting is circumstantial evidence. His thesis is that the Knights Templar went underground in England after they were suppressed in the 14th century and then morphed into the Masons. He presents all of the circumstantial evidence and it all seems quite compelling. He lays out his arguments in a logical, easy to read, and engaging way. I’m curious to know how much legitimate historical research into the ancient origins of the Freemasons exists. I’d like to know more but I don’t want to go chasing down rabbit holes. By that, I mean that I’m only interested in reading works by credible historians (which Johnson seems to be). Three enjoyable stars.
August 4, 2019
Good connection between the Templars and Freemasons written in a way to keep the reader engaged. However, Robinson starts to shill for the Freemasons in the last two chapters. There is heavy use of sarcasm to debunk "myths" about the Masons and the only source used to do so are books by Mr. Knight. He completely disregards the hundreds of other sources speaking out against Freemasons and their practices even from former Masons. The word Freemason in French means "sons of Light" going back to Lucifer being the light bearer. In the last few pages Robinson goes on to push for a one world religion saying that Freemasonry tenants could provide a common ground for believers of different faiths. But what can you expect from the visionary for the Masonic Information Center.
February 29, 2024
Es un buen libro, principalmente para despejar dudas acerca de la relación histórica que tuvieron estas dos órdenes.
Los templarios es una de las órdenes más estudiadas y documentadas dado a la importancia que tuvieron en su época y las repercusiones político sociales de su época, por otro lado la masoneria como una orden secreta que surgió precisamente luego de la desaparición delos caballeros del temple.
Aquí se trata de documentar y se establece una hipótesis con la relación tan estrecha que tuvieron una de otra orden, así como los personajes históricos que intervinieron.
En la segunda mitad del libro se revelan muchos secretos que los masones tienen guardados respecto a sus rituales y sus grados.
Los templarios es una de las órdenes más estudiadas y documentadas dado a la importancia que tuvieron en su época y las repercusiones político sociales de su época, por otro lado la masoneria como una orden secreta que surgió precisamente luego de la desaparición delos caballeros del temple.
Aquí se trata de documentar y se establece una hipótesis con la relación tan estrecha que tuvieron una de otra orden, así como los personajes históricos que intervinieron.
En la segunda mitad del libro se revelan muchos secretos que los masones tienen guardados respecto a sus rituales y sus grados.
August 8, 2018
The thesis that the Freemasonry stems from the persecuted Knights Templar is interesting, not unbelievable. The thesis however could have been spelled out and sold to the reader in circa 100 pages. It is, however, wrapped in chapter upon chapter (400 pages) of only thinly related detailed (political) history of several different eras and ditto countries. Without the shred of a footnote it's not a scholarly work by any means of the word, but the writing has pace and tension and is easily consumed or those interested in history and secret societies. The book gives insight in the Knights Templar and Freemasonry, and it reveals some of the Masonic initiation rituals.
July 25, 2022
This book is about possible connection between Kinghts Templar and Free Masons. Interesting theory, right?
While the author presents an interesting and logical arguments, he presents no hard evidence to support his theories. This is simply a book that presents an alternative theory.
To be honest I had a hard time getting through the book. The book is quite short and yet I read it for over a month which is incredible and it's always a sign that I didn't enjoy it that much and had to force myself to read it.
I am sure that for some it would be a very interesting book (which it indeed mostly is), I just didn't enjoy it much.
My rating of the book: 2,5 ⭐ / 5 ⭐
While the author presents an interesting and logical arguments, he presents no hard evidence to support his theories. This is simply a book that presents an alternative theory.
To be honest I had a hard time getting through the book. The book is quite short and yet I read it for over a month which is incredible and it's always a sign that I didn't enjoy it that much and had to force myself to read it.
I am sure that for some it would be a very interesting book (which it indeed mostly is), I just didn't enjoy it much.
My rating of the book: 2,5 ⭐ / 5 ⭐
November 30, 2022
This book has been recommended to me many times. The first part I found at first very interesting because of its in-depth treatment of the Knight's Templar but then the explanations of Medieval politics were pretty dry, though relevant to the main point.
The second section I liked because it gave various parts of Masonic history that I was not familiar with.
I also enjoyed the explanation of why Freemasonry is viewed with contempt by the Catholic Church.
I highly recommend for all Freemasons, and anyone interested in Freemasonry.
The second section I liked because it gave various parts of Masonic history that I was not familiar with.
I also enjoyed the explanation of why Freemasonry is viewed with contempt by the Catholic Church.
I highly recommend for all Freemasons, and anyone interested in Freemasonry.
June 18, 2017
This is a clear and compelling description of historical events linking the Knights Templar and the Freemasons, following a trail of difficult to identify but authentic information following the peasant uprising in England in 1381. This might sound like "ancient" history but the author brings it right up in to contemporary times in telling the story of the impact those original connections have. This is well worth a read!! Good stuff! Good story telling!
April 10, 2018
This was a good book, not great. I liked the first 200 pages, but the last 100 pages was meandering and repetitive. I will say that the final conclusion was well done. Robinson made some good points: Freemasonry came from somewhere, and it wasn't the construction trades. It had to have roots in a time when men were in fear for their lives from a power so great that caused them to go underground to preserve their very lives. His conclusions made sense to me.
January 1, 2019
If well the book it's focused in the relationship between the templars and freemasons, the idea of just focusing on the British Isles and not the rest of Europe -As if freemasonry was a "British phenomenon"- and the lack of references to "Old Charges" (manuscript Cooke, Dumfries, etc.) an the omission of historical documents like "De Templo Salomonis Liber" of Saint Bede the Venerable in my humble opinion, I find them absolutely unpresentables.
July 2, 2021
I have read this book twice. I read shortly after becoming a master Mason in 1994. I was younger and less aware of how men and the world could really be. I just finished the audiobook version and I have even more respect for the author now.
I think this account of the potential links between Freemasonry and the Templars makes the most logical sense to me.
The other accounts I have read seem forced and not complete.
I think this account of the potential links between Freemasonry and the Templars makes the most logical sense to me.
The other accounts I have read seem forced and not complete.
May 4, 2022
Explains what we know about the Knights Templars, and the Free Masons, and the possible ties between the two. This book goes through symbols, customs, and initiation services in detail, from the time of Solomon, the medieval era, to today and the emerging of this society into the public, as opposed to a secret order.
Definitely gives a piece to the puzzle of their influence on our culture. From the game of chess, labor unions, and why we call the bar exam the bar. Fascinating
Definitely gives a piece to the puzzle of their influence on our culture. From the game of chess, labor unions, and why we call the bar exam the bar. Fascinating
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