Can a Muslim be a Freemason?

Answer 1

There is nothing especially "Islamic" about Freemasonry, although a number of Muslims have been Freemasons, with lodges being built in Egypt and Iran in the 1920s. Freemasonry is about the improvement of the world through the advancement of moral good, a mission which compliments Islam's. However, since Freemasonry is associated with numerous conspiracy theories in the Islamic World, most Muslim Freemasons keep their membership in Freemasonry a secret to avoid problems with their compatriots.

Answer 2

Answer 1: No

A Muslim can't be a freemason, say some Islamic leaders. Freemasonry is denounced by the Catholic Church and by Islam.

Answer 2: Yes

Although some clergy of Islam have certainly denounced Freemasonry, there is nothing in Freemasonry that goes against Islamic teaching. The fundamental purpose of Freemasonry is to form an organization that provides for the bettering of the social climate between people in the name of the Almighty. This is a perfect complement to Islam. The reason, historically, that churches and mosques have opposed Freemasonry is that it appears to be a cabal of the rich and powerful all over the world since a disproportionate number of Freemasons are successful. It is curious to note, though, that discussions of politics, religion, and wealth are banned within lodges to prevent expressly this misinterpretation of their goals. There have also been numerous lodges in Muslim countries from the 19th century onwards, although many of them are secret to avoid government recriminations.