Matthew Arian Siami

Matthew Arian Siami

From Aberdeen, Dr. Matthew Siami is a Doctor of Counselling Psychology with a keen interest in both research and practice within psychotherapy and psychology. His academic journey commenced with the attainment of undergraduate and master’s degrees, which provided the foundation for his doctoral work and current endeavours.

Outside the academic sphere, Matthew's interests are varied and dynamic. Leveraging his background in amateur boxing, he serves as a coach, sharing his expertise with aspiring athletes. His commitment to mentorship extends beyond the ring, as he actively serves on the boards of local community centres, fostering positive engagement within Aberdeen.

Moreover, Matthew actively participates in Aberdeen’s Masonic community, contributing to Lodge Aberdeen No. 1ter, RAC St George No. 21, and Bon Accord Conclave No. 6. Through these affiliations, he finds meaningful fellowship and avenues for service.

As a runner-up in the 2024 Arcana Veritas Awards, his first paper focused on how Masons understand and make meaning in the Craft. Matthew now seeks to demonstrate, through his new paper, why applying psychological and philosophical methods to Freemasonry is imperative, since without rigorous empirical validation of its symbols, rituals, and teachings, we cannot fully comprehend their true impact on cognition, identity, and social behaviour.

From Stone to Temple: The Psychological Transformation of Identity in Freemasonry

As a continuation of my paper submitted as a finalist to the 2024 Arcana Veritas Distinction Awards, this work delves deeper into the psychological aspects of the Freemason, moving beyond a broad examination of the meanings behind ritual and symbolism. Specifically, this paper looks to explore the significance of identity and personal transformation within Freemasonry, 

These transformative elements are deeply embedded in the moral teachings of Freemasonry, which, while often overshadowed by historical discussions in Masonic literature, form the cornerstone of the Freemason’s journey toward personal growth and spiritual refinement. Rituals and symbolism in Freemasonry serve as catalysts for this process, guiding the individual toward an apotheosis of being, a state where the Freemason strives to uphold moral ideals in his pursuit of perfection, in reflection of the divine. This journey mirrors the allegory of the rough and perfect ashlars, where exposure to others and the practice of ritual initiate a change within the man, not only morally but psychologically, as some may interpret, within the very core of his soul. 

Thus, this paper aims to highlight the moral and personal transformation at the core of Freemasonry in the psychological realm, and provide a deeper understanding of how its rituals, symbols, and teachings refine character and elevate the individual toward higher moral and spiritual ideals. Through initiation, reflection, and ethical discipline, the Freemason is challenged to overcome his imperfections, embody virtue, and strive for self-perfection.