Episode 11: Freemasonry in the Middle East

“There is a profound irony to the relationship between Freemasonry and the Middle East. No world organization owes more to the region in the way of its motifs, its symbols, and its rituals. But no organization in the course of its presence in the Middle East has encountered more criticism, more disapproval, and more outright government persecution.”  Dr. Paul Rich, Stanford University 

So, is it dangerous to be a Freemason in the Middle East?  And why?  As we learn from this month’s guest, it turns out, there might not be a simple answer to that question in a region that freely mixes its history with politics and religion in a sometimes volitile stew.  His name is Michael Buchard.  He is a former Naval Officer and resident of several foreign countries as consultant and student.  He talks to us about his experiences and his research into Freemasonry’s sorted history in the Middle East on this month’s The Life Masonic…