Video Description
Since the beginning of time, the "priest class" as they've been called has perfected (or rather Mastered) their Mahan. They've mastered their art of gatekeeping secrets in order to gain. The Freemasons were originally a guild of stonemasons, the idea being that they had their own trade secrets and so they all got together (formed a guild) and worked together to further gain. This was primarily done by keeping trade secrets. By incorporating elements of the Mystery Traditions of Esotericism, it became a degreed system where the higher up you get, the more secrets you're privy to, and the more intwined with the group you become.
Within Freemasonry, the ritualistic oath taking ceremony functions subconsciously. A "pinky promise," for example is one thing, but getting down on your knees with a noose around your neck and your peers gathered around while swearing upon a Bible on pain of death is one entirely different thing.
If one day I do something stupid and ask you to keep my secret, and you oblige, sometime down the line when you do something stupid, you'll be inclined to come to me and say "I covered for you, now you cover for me." It's now a bond between those two people, those two people are "in it together." Shakespeare called this a tangled web because while it usually starts out innocently enough, before you know it, it spirals out of control and you're caught up in too many lies to keep track of.
Concluding this presentation, I suggest we begin to use this term "Mahanism" as opposed to "Satanism" or "Luciferianism" as those terms have been deliberately associated with entry level occultism.
While groups such as Masonry may not be inherently evil, it is the inherent secrecy which makes it a formidable breeding ground for some of the worst among us to spin their tangled webs around those they so fittingly call "hoodwinked."
Original Mahanism Article
Wikipedia’s Definition (From the LDS Church)
Master Mahan, in the religious texts of the Latter Day Saint movement, is a title assumed first by Cain and later by his descendant Lamech. The title indicates that Cain and Lamech were each the "master" of a "great secret" in which they covenanted with Satan to kill for personal gain.1 The term is found in Joseph Smith's translation of the Bible in Genesis 5 (currently published by the Community of Christ) and in the Pearl of Great Price (in Chapter 5 of the Book of Moses), a religious text of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).
Critics, who approach the issue from a secular perspective and argue that Smith's translation of the Bible was influenced by his cultural environment, including strong local anti-Masonry, generally suggest that the term is related to "Master Mason," the highest degree of the Blue Lodge of freemasonry.2 Another suggestion is that the term is related to "Mahoun," a pejorative reference to Muhammad during the Middle Ages that eventually became associated with witchcraft by Smith's era3. Apologists, however, generally argue that references to "Master Mahan" were restored by Smith from missing parts of the Bible and that the term thus has Middle Eastern roots. Consequently, the LDS Church's publications suggest that the term "Mahan" can mean "mind," "destroyer," or "great one,"4 and the prominent LDS scholar Hugh Nibley has speculated that the term is related to Arabic and Sanskrit words meaning "keeper of a great secret."5
Cain’s Pact with Satan
According to the passage, the angry Cain made a secret pact with Satan, who asked Cain:
Swear unto me by thy throat, and if thou tell it thou shalt die; and swear thy bretheren by their heads, and by the living God, that they tell it not; for if they tell it, they shall surely die; and this that thy father may not know it; and this day I will deliver thy brother Abel into thine hands.
NOTE: It is impossible to ignore the similarities of this passage and the concept of the Masonic Oath
Full Masonic Oath Hidden Camera
Mormonism & Freemasonry
In M. R. Werner's book Brigham Young (page 62) the following remark makes this evident.
Masonry was always popular with the Mormons until Joseph Smith claimed that an angel of the Lord had brought him the lost key-words of several degrees, enabling him to progress further than the highest Masons. The charter of the Mormon lodge was then taken away by the Grand Lodge.
More References on Masonry & Mormonism
“Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration” by Cheryl L. Bruno, Joe Steve Swick III, and Nicholas S. Literski.
“Joseph’s Temples: The Dynamic Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism” by Michael W. Homer.
“Similarity of Priesthood in Masonry: The Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism” by Michael W. Homer. (An article, published in Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought)
“Exploring the Connection between Mormons and Masons” by Matthew B. Brown.
Mahanism & The Secret Combination
7 Article by Tory Anderson
Interpreting by context, the title Master Mahan means simply “Master of the Secret Combination.” It is first claimed by Cain, and then by Lamech, Cain’s great, great grand-son. In understanding the significance of this term it is important to realize who Cain was. His father was Adam, son of God, prophet on Earth and first holder of the Priesthood. Neither Cain nor Abel were the first children of Adam (Moses 5:2, 16), but certainly Adam taught them in the ways of God, and they would both have received the Priesthood from him. This is a key fact – Cain knew of the Priesthood pattern of covenants and ordinances, laws, and sacred things. This is the same pattern that is to be twisted and perverted within the evil that is the Secret Combination of Master Mahan, for all the greatest evil must necessarily follow as a deviation from a correspondingly great good.
The first stories of the Human Race as contained in Genesis and particularly Moses are richly illustrated in terms of decisions and consequences. Following Cain we can clearly see the beginnings and the results of his tragic choice to turn from the God he knew – a being he knew so certainly as to maintain conversation with (note Moses 5:22-25, where Cain does not seem astonished to hear the voice of God). As certainly as we can tell, it began with a choice to love Satan more than the Lord (5:16,18). As a result, he then gave heed to Satan, even unto an offering unto the Lord (5:18-19) – Cain not questioning the odd request, which the great Deceiver knew would give Cain an excuse to be offended.
Satan succeeded in humiliating Cain and simultaneously deceiving Cain into believing it was Abel who had caused the embarrassment. Feelings of pride, jealousy, covetousness, and greed are then magnified by that voice which Cain has already given list to. These fester within Cain for a period of time after the perverted offering he had made until his soul has become spoiled like any of the fruit he mistakenly offered on the altar. It is at this over-ripe time, in verses 29-31 of Moses 5, that Satan enters into a black covenant with Cain. The anti-Priesthood covenant, it is a covenant of secrecy, sworn in blood, performed unto death – as opposed to those sacred rites of the priesthood, covenants of holiness, sealed by the Spirit, performed unto life.
In reaction to this heinous act of murder performed by Cain, now called Perdition (5:24), God mercifully gives him a chance similar to Adam after partaking the forbidden fruit – he asks a question that would give him the opportunity to take responsibility (5:34). Cain does not follow in the steps of his noble father but claims ignorance and apathy, keeping his vow with Satan even against God. He is cursed, with his livelihood being denied him by the earth itself, banished without a home. His final reaction is to cry in pitiful fear and complaint, even now refusing to see anything beyond his own state, “fallen” as his countenance (5:21-22). Despite the merciful promise of the Lord, to repent is a thing he never considers. thus we see that the ultimately wicked cannot repent – not because God won’t allow them, but because they cannot allow themselves to do it.
A trait of those who condemn themselves to Perdition and become Sons of Perdition – following in his footsteps – is glorification in their wickedness (5:31). They burn every bridge of mercy which the Lord has built for them and crucify Christ unto themselves. From beginning to end, this is the significance of Master Mahan, those who lead in the Secret Combination, the Whore of All the Earth, the Great and Abominable Church of false covenants. They indulge in secrecy, murder, and seeking gain unto the loss of their souls. They know God and only pervert that knowledge, eventually destroying themselves after inflicting pain on those they can touch. Their ultimate payment is only from he whom they serve.
Further Analysis
Mahanism
Mahanism is a concept derived from the Book of Moses, which is part of the scriptural canon of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). It pertains to the narrative surrounding Cain, the first murderer according to biblical and LDS theology, and introduces the term "Master Mahan."
Origin and Meaning: "Master Mahan" translates to "Master of the Secret Combination" within the context of the Book of Moses. This title is first taken by Cain after he murders his brother Abel, symbolizing his leadership in a secret society or conspiracy against God's laws and priesthood.
Cain's Background: Cain, being the son of Adam, was familiar with divine teachings, priesthood ordinances, and the covenantal relationship with God. His deviation from this path marks the beginning of what would be considered "Mahanism" - a perversion of sacred knowledge for malevolent purposes.
Theology of Choice and Consequence:
Cain's Choices: His journey from a son of Adam to becoming "Perdition" (a term used for those who fully reject God) illustrates themes of rebellion, pride, envy, and ultimately, a covenant with Satan rather than God. This narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of choosing evil over good, particularly when one has knowledge of the divine.
Secret Combinations: In LDS theology, "secret combinations" refer to conspiracies or groups that operate in opposition to God's plan, often involving secrecy, murder, and the pursuit of power. Mahanism, therefore, represents the ultimate form of these combinations, where sacred knowledge is used to further evil.
Symbolic Implications:
Anti-Priesthood: The covenant Cain makes with Satan is seen as an inversion or perversion of the priesthood covenant, where instead of life and holiness, it brings death and secrecy.
Perdition: Those who follow in Cain's path, known as "Sons of Perdition," are those who fully reject Christ after having a full knowledge of Him, thus sealing their fate in spiritual damnation.
Broader Theological Context:
Mahanism can be linked to broader LDS themes of opposition to God, the dangers of secret societies, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. It's often discussed in terms of how individuals might misuse their agency to reject divine light, leading to spiritual darkness.
Masonry
The connection between Freemasonry and the teachings or rituals of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), particularly through the lens of Joseph Smith's involvement, is a topic of significant interest and debate. Here's how this relationship is generally understood:
Joseph Smith & Freemasonry
Membership: Joseph Smith became a Freemason in March 1842, shortly before introducing the temple endowment ceremony to the LDS Church. His brother Hyrum Smith and possibly his father, Joseph Smith Sr., were also Freemasons.
Influence on LDS Temple Rituals:
Symbols and Rituals: There are noted similarities between some Masonic symbols, rituals, and the LDS temple endowment ceremony. For example, the use of certain symbols like the square and compass on temple garments, handshakes, and the use of ritualistic clothing have parallels in both traditions. However, the purposes and the theological underpinnings differ significantly between the two.
Restoration vs. Influence: Some LDS scholars argue that these similarities reflect a restoration of ancient rites, suggesting that both Freemasonry and LDS temple practices might connect back to ancient temple ceremonies. Others propose that Masonic rituals served as a cultural framework or "catalyst" through which Smith received revelations for the endowment ceremony, adapting known rituals to convey divine truths in a way that would be culturally resonant to his contemporaries.
Response to Freemasonry:
Historical Context: In the early 19th century, Freemasonry was both popular and controversial, especially with the anti-Masonic movement in the U.S. Smith's involvement might have been partly to forge alliances or gain political influence, but it also led to speculation about his motives and the origins of LDS temple practices.
Later Distancing: After Smith's death, subsequent LDS leaders distanced themselves from Freemasonry, emphasizing the unique divine origins of their temple ceremonies, which they claim were revealed by God. This distancing was partly due to the controversies surrounding Freemasonry in the U.S. and to underscore the distinctiveness of LDS theology.
Mahanism & Freemasonry
Conceptual Overlap: The idea of "Mahanism" as described relates to secret combinations, which in LDS teachings are often seen as groups or conspiracies against God's plan. While Freemasonry itself does not align with this concept in its official teachings or purposes, the secrecy, symbolic language, and ritualistic aspects of Freemasonry could be interpreted by some as analogous to the secretive and corrupt practices warned against in LDS scripture like the Book of Moses.
Historical Interpretation: Some critics or scholars of Mormonism have suggested that the term "Mahan" might have been influenced by Masonic titles or concepts of mastery over secrets, although this is more of an interpretative stretch rather than direct evidence. The narrative of Mahanism is more about moral and spiritual deviation from divine law than any direct connection to Freemasonry practices.
Cultural and Symbolic Interpretations: The narrative of Mahanism, with its focus on secrecy, power, and corruption, can resonate with broader cultural fears or critiques of secret societies, which Freemasonry has often been subject to in the public imagination, especially in the 19th century.
In summary, while there's a clear historical link between Joseph Smith and Freemasonry, which influenced some aspects of LDS temple ritual, the connection to Mahanism is more thematic or conceptual rather than direct. The LDS Church and Freemasonry share some ritualistic similarities, but they diverge significantly in purpose, theology, and the interpretation of these rituals.
Manly P. Hall & The Secret of Masonry
The Secret of Freemasonry is to keep a secret.
~ Manly P. Hall (Also Attributed to Joseph Smith)
Manly P. Hall, a prolific writer and lecturer on the occult, esoteric philosophy, and Freemasonry, indeed made a statement akin to "The secret of Freemasonry is to keep a secret." This phrase captures one of the core elements often attributed to Freemasonry - the emphasis on secrecy and confidentiality among its members regarding the lodge's rituals, symbols, and certain teachings.
Freemasonry: The ethos of secrecy within Freemasonry is partly about protecting the sanctity and personal significance of its rituals and teachings. Members take oaths to not reveal certain aspects of the lodge's activities or the details of their initiation rites. This practice is intended to foster a sense of mystery, respect for tradition, and to ensure that the teachings are valued and approached with seriousness by those who have taken the vows.
Mahanism and LDS Context: While there's no direct connection between Manly P. Hall's statement and the LDS concept of Mahanism, there is a thematic echo in how both address secrecy:
Mahanism: As discussed, involves the misuse of sacred knowledge for evil ends, often under the guise of secrecy. The idea here is that the secrets are kept to maintain power, manipulate, or to engage in activities contrary to divine will.
LDS Church: The church also has elements of sacred secrecy in its temple ceremonies, not to hide from the world but to maintain the sanctity of the experience for participants. This is very different from Mahanism's negative connotation of secrecy, but it shows how secrecy can be viewed in contrasting lights - one for spiritual growth and another for corrupt practices.
Cultural Perception: Hall's statement can be seen as highlighting how secrecy, whether in Freemasonry or other contexts like Mahanism, often fuels intrigue, speculation, and sometimes fear or misunderstanding from those outside these groups. This can lead to a broad cultural narrative where secrecy in any form is seen with suspicion or as potentially nefarious, even when the intentions might be benign or protective of sacredness.
In summary, Manly P. Hall's comment about Freemasonry underscores a key aspect of the organization's tradition that has parallels or contrasts in various spiritual or secretive societies, including how secrecy is perceived in religious contexts like the LDS Church's narrative of Mahanism. However, the purpose and moral implications of secrecy vary significantly across these different contexts.
Secrecy
Secrecy as a Bond
Psychological Fear: Secrecy can indeed create a bond among members of a group, not just through shared knowledge but through shared vulnerability or culpability. This can engender a strong sense of loyalty, or in some interpretations, fear - fear of exposure, fear of losing status within the group, or fear of the consequences if secrets are revealed. This dynamic can be seen in various contexts, from religious sects to political coalitions.
Coven or Conspiracy: The term "coven" implies a group bound by rituals, often with implications of witchcraft or dark practices in popular culture. While this is an extreme characterization, the idea of a group bound by secrets can evoke similar imagery or fears, suggesting an alliance where members are complicit in each other's actions or knowledge. This can be positive (like protecting sacred rites) or negative (like covering up misdeeds), depending on the group's nature.
Freemasonry & Secrecy
Masonic Secrecy: In Freemasonry, the secrecy is often about preserving the mystery and sanctity of the rites and symbols, not necessarily about evil deeds. However, the very act of keeping secrets can be misconstrued or exaggerated in the public eye, leading to conspiracy theories or fears of hidden agendas.
Cultural Misinterpretation: The secretive nature of Freemasonry has historically led to accusations of it being a "cabal" or "conspiracy" against societal norms, religion, or governments, often without substantial evidence, fueled by the human tendency to fear what is not understood.
Mahanism & LDS
Negative Secrecy: In the context of Mahanism, as per LDS teachings, secrecy is linked to evil intentions - the secret combinations are about power, corruption, and opposition to divine will. Here, the secrecy binds individuals in a negative covenant, contrasting with the positive, sacred secrecy of LDS temple rites.
Theological Critique: This narrative serves to warn against the misuse of sacred knowledge or power for personal gain or to harm others, highlighting a moral critique of secrecy where it leads to or covers up wrongdoing.
Broader Implications
Trust and Transparency: In modern society, there's a tension between the need for privacy or sacredness and the demand for transparency, especially in institutions. Secrecy can be seen as a tool for both good (protecting personal or sacred information) and ill (hiding corrupt practices).
Community and Identity: Secrecy can also be about creating a distinct identity or community, where members feel a part of something exclusive or significant, which can be empowering or isolating depending on the context.
Ultimately, whether secrecy in groups is viewed as forming a "coven" or conspiracy heavily depends on cultural perceptions, historical context, and the intentions behind the secrecy. The fear or critique of such practices often stems from a lack of understanding or from real instances where secrecy has indeed been used to mask unethical behavior. However, not all secretive practices aim at or result in evil; many are about safeguarding what is considered sacred or personal.
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