Whence Came You? - 0718 - Watchmen in the Dark: Fighting Dictators and the Fear of Dying

Whence Came You? - 0718 - Watchmen in the Dark: Fighting Dictators and the Fear of Dying

Author: Robert Johnson June 29, 2026 Duration: 29:28

This week on episode 0718, we dive deep into the archives of 1937 and 1938 to explore two powerful Masonic articles: Dr. Ernest Crutcher's controversial challenge to our fear of mortality in Death: A Resting Place Between Lives, and Rabbi H. Griffan's rallying cry against the rise of totalitarianism in Masons as Watchmen. Plus, we uncover the dark, forgotten history of a 1930s domestic hate group known as the Black Legion, and we have an important update regarding the 2026 John Skeene Conference. All this and more!

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Hosted by Robert Johnson, Whence Came You? explores the rich tapestry of Freemasonry, connecting its historical foundations to the experience of the modern member. This isn't a series of dry lectures; instead, it uses research papers, both historical and contemporary, as a starting point for genuine conversation. You'll hear thoughtful discussions that examine the Fraternity's symbols, traditions, and evolving role in today's world. The aim is to make Masonic scholarship and dialogue accessible, using the very technology that defines our current age to bridge the past and present. Whether you are a longtime Freemason seeking deeper understanding or simply a curious individual intrigued by one of history's most enduring institutions, this podcast offers a unique window into its philosophies and practices. Each episode invites you to consider the principles and questions that have shaped the craft, fostering a space where learning is a continuous journey. Tune in for a nuanced look at how ancient wisdom finds its place in a contemporary context, all through the intimate and convenient format of a podcast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Whence Came You? - Freemasonry discussed and Masonic research for today's Freemason
Podcast Episodes
Whence Came You? - 0711 - Ritual, Revision, and Renewal [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:08
This week, we're looking at two really interesting articles from Square and Compass Magazine. First up, we'll be reading Anachronisms and Inconsistencies in Masonic Ritual. Have you ever thought in ritual, "Hey, that doe…
Whence Came You? - 0710 - Napoleon and Freemasonry [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:40
Join us this week as we read a piece on Napoleon and how he became a mythic figure larger than the facts themselves! I may be a little under the weather, but Masonry doesn't stop, so here we go! Stay tuned! Links: The Se…
Whence Came You? - 0708 - Smoke, Symbol and Secrecy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:15
This week, dive into the third installment of Manly P. Hall's "Ancient Mysteries and Secret Societies," exploring its influence on modern Masonic symbolism. We sift through Hall's revelations against modern science, hist…
Whence Came You? - 0707 - Abandoning the Mystery? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:26
Join us this week as we explore the ancient Druidic Mysteries and their correlations with Freemasonry and other occult orders. We're reading the second in a three-part series penned by Manly Hall himself. Then we'll read…
Whence Came You? - 0706 - A Completely Based Episode [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:47
Join us this week for an exploration of what it takes to attract Gen Z and Gen Alpha members, and how we can get out of the way and let them take our fraternity into the future. Darin A. Lahners gives us a diverse list o…
Whence Came You? - 0705 - Open a Book! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:58
Join us this week as we explore what the Egyptian Sphinx can teach the Freemason! What symbology can we ascribe to teachings in Masonry? The answer may surprise you, although it's right in front of our eyes! Then Learn h…
Whence Came You? - 0704 - The Overview Effect [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:04
Join us this week for a wonderful expression of what Freemasonry is doing for the world, and who we need to keep the Great Work moving forward. Then we've got a brand new Masonic Minute with Brother Steve Harrison--What…
Whence Came You? - 0703 - Are They Freemasons? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:47
Join us this week for the continuation of the Theurgic Roots of Freemasonry series by Kristine Wilson-Slack! This week, we answer the question, "By working with God, do we fulfill the tenets of Freemasonry?" Then in an e…
Whence Came You? - 0702 - Theurgy and the Rosicrucian Craft [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:32
This week, we're looking at Theurgy! What is it? How is it related to Freemasonry? And why does it matter? We'll get started with the first in a series by Kristine Wilson-Slack. Then, we discover an ancient, okay, not an…