Freemasonry—the world's oldest fraternal organization—is wrapped in mystery and intrigue. But what exactly does all that symbolism mean, and where did it come from? Browse this gallery and ...

Released today, The Lost Symbol isn't likely to squelch any rumors, beginning as it does with a wine-filled skull, bejeweled power brokers, and a dark Masonic temple steps away from the White House.

While not a religion in and of itself, Freemasonry is far from secular. Its principles of self-improvement are based in Abrahamic fundamentals, with a dash of Orientalism, and the symbolism of the ...