Born in Blood summary

Unraveling the Origins of Freemasonry

In Born in Blood by John J. Robinson, we embark on a historical journey to uncover the origins of Freemasonry. Robinson begins by highlighting the brutal persecution of the Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order. Accused of heresy and other crimes, the Templars were disbanded by Pope Clement V, and many of their members were executed. But according to Robinson, the Templars did not simply vanish; instead, they went underground, forming secret societies to preserve their knowledge and traditions.

Robinson argues that the Freemasons were the direct descendants of the Templars, taking refuge in the stone mason guilds of medieval Europe. He traces the development of these guilds, noting their unique blend of practical stonemasonry skills and esoteric knowledge. This, he suggests, was the perfect cover for the Templars to continue their existence in secret, under the guise of an innocent craft.

The Secret Society of Freemasonry

As we progress through Born in Blood, Robinson delves into the inner workings of the Freemasons. He describes the elaborate initiation rituals, the use of secret symbols, and the strict codes of conduct that characterized the society. According to Robinson, these practices were inherited from the Templars and served to maintain the group's clandestine nature, as well as to reinforce their sense of brotherhood and mutual support.

Robinson also discusses the Freemasons' influence on historical events, pointing out that many prominent figures, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, were members of the society. He suggests that the Freemasons played a significant role in the formation of the United States, citing their commitment to democratic values and their network of influential members.

The Freemasons and the Reformation

One of the most intriguing aspects of Born in Blood is Robinson's exploration of the Freemasons' connection to the Protestant Reformation. He argues that the Templars, having been persecuted by the Catholic Church, harbored a deep-seated resentment towards the papacy. This anti-Catholic sentiment, Robinson claims, was passed down to the Freemasons, who saw themselves as guardians of a different, more enlightened form of spirituality.

Robinson also suggests that the Freemasons' secretive nature and their perceived opposition to the Catholic Church made them targets for persecution in turn. He points to historical instances of anti-Masonic sentiment, such as the suppression of the society in Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, as evidence of this ongoing conflict.

Reevaluating Historical Narratives

In conclusion, Born in Blood offers a compelling reinterpretation of the origins and influence of Freemasonry. By tracing the society's roots back to the persecuted Templars, Robinson challenges conventional historical narratives and sheds light on the complex interplay between religion, politics, and secret societies. While his theories are controversial and not universally accepted, they certainly provide food for thought and encourage us to reevaluate our understanding of this enigmatic organization.