I remember the first time the Knights Templar truly seized my imagination. It wasn’t in some dusty history book, but during a late-night binge-watch of a documentary series, detailing their meteoric rise, immense power, and the shocking, brutal fall that sealed their legend. My mind reeled with images of crusader castles, secret rituals, and the infamous Friday the 13th, 1307, when King Philip IV of France orchestrated their downfall. But as the credits rolled, a nagging question persisted: What are the Knights Templar called today? Surely, an organization so powerful, so steeped in mystery, couldn’t simply vanish without a trace. This question, a puzzle many have pondered, often leads down a rabbit hole of history, myth, and modern fraternal orders. And the simple, precise answer, for those seeking clarity amidst the whispers of secret societies and historical claims, is that today, the most widely recognized organizations claiming a symbolic, spiritual, or direct, albeit disputed, lineage to the historical order are primarily the Knights Templar within the York Rite of Freemasonry, alongside numerous independent, self-proclaimed neo-Templar groups with varying degrees of legitimacy and historical connection.
This isn’t a straightforward “they changed their name to X” kind of situation. The story of the Knights Templar, or rather, their modern echoes, is far more complex, a tapestry woven from genuine historical remnants, symbolic inspiration, and the enduring human fascination with chivalry and hidden knowledge. As someone who has spent a fair bit of time delving into the nooks and crannies of history and fraternal organizations, I can tell you that understanding their contemporary existence requires a deep dive into the nature of their original order, the circumstances of its dissolution, and the ways in which its powerful imagery has been resurrected and reinterpreted across centuries.
The Original Order: A Brief Retrospect
To truly grasp what the Knights Templar are called today, we first need to understand who they were yesterday. Officially known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, they were a Catholic military order founded in 1119, recognized in 1129 by the Pope. Their initial mission was to protect European pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land after the First Crusade. From humble beginnings, they quickly grew into one of the most powerful, wealthy, and influential organizations of the Middle Ages.
Think about it: they were warrior monks, bound by monastic vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, yet they wielded immense military might and managed a vast economic network that spanned Europe. They built formidable castles, developed early forms of banking, and served as trusted advisors to kings and popes. Their white mantles, emblazoned with a distinctive red cross, became a symbol of courage and piety. They were, in essence, the very embodiment of chivalric ideals mixed with practical power. But with great power often comes great envy and suspicion.
Their downfall was as dramatic as their rise. By the early 14th century, the Crusades were largely over, and the Templars’ original mission was waning. They had accumulated vast wealth and influence, which attracted the covetous gaze of King Philip IV of France, who was deeply in debt to the Order. On Friday, October 13, 1307, agents of King Philip arrested Templars across France, accusing them of heresy, sacrilege, and various moral transgressions. Under torture, many confessed, providing the “evidence” needed for their condemnation. Though many later recanted, Pope Clement V, under immense pressure from Philip, ultimately dissolved the Order in 1312. The last Grand Master, Jacques de Molay, was burned at the stake in 1314, reportedly cursing his persecutors as he faced his fiery end. And just like that, one of the most powerful organizations in medieval Europe officially ceased to exist.
The Echoes of Dissolution: Did They Truly Vanish?
The official dissolution of the Knights Templar, however, didn’t mean an immediate disappearance of all Templars or their assets. The story of their “survival” is crucial to understanding their modern manifestations. While the official papal bull Vox in excelso disbanded the Order, it also mandated that their lands and possessions be transferred to the Knights Hospitaller (another powerful military order, now known as the Sovereign Military Order of Malta). But this transfer was often complex, contested, and incomplete.
Several theories and historical pockets of “survival” emerged:
- Portugal: Many Templars in Portugal were absorbed into the new “Order of Christ,” created by King Denis I. This order continued to exist, inheriting Templar assets and traditions, and its symbols (like the Christ Cross) famously adorned the sails of Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama. This is arguably the most direct historical continuation of Templar personnel and assets, albeit under a new name and papal approval.
- Scotland: Legend, popularized by Masonic lore and later by popular fiction, suggests that some Templars fled to Scotland, where King Robert the Bruce was excommunicated and thus less likely to obey papal or French decrees. They supposedly fought alongside Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, and their influence is said to have woven into early Scottish Freemasonry. While historically difficult to prove definitively, this narrative is a cornerstone of some modern claims of Templar lineage.
- Underground Survival: The idea that some Templars went “underground” to preserve their knowledge, wealth, or a secret doctrine is a pervasive myth. This narrative fuels many of the more esoteric and conspiratorial claims associated with the Order, suggesting a hidden continuity that surfaces in various forms throughout history.
It’s important to distinguish between the survival of individuals or fragments of the Order under new auspices, and the continuation of the original organization itself. The original Order, as a papal-sanctioned entity, was definitively dissolved. What emerged later were either new organizations *inspired* by the Templars, or ones that genuinely incorporated former Templars but operated under different names and rules.
The Masonic Connection: The Most Prominent Modern “Knights Templar”
When most people ask what the Knights Templar are called today, they are often implicitly asking about their connection to Freemasonry. And indeed, this is where you’ll find the most visible and widespread organizations using the title “Knights Templar.”
Within the broad umbrella of Freemasonry, there exists a series of appendant bodies, meaning organizations that are closely associated with Masonry but have their own distinct requirements and rituals. One of the most prominent of these is the Knights Templar, a Christian chivalric order within the York Rite of Freemasonry. To be clear, this is not a direct lineal descendant of the medieval military order in a historical, unbroken chain. Rather, it is an *order inspired by* the medieval Templars, drawing heavily on their history, symbolism, and perceived virtues.
What is the York Rite Knights Templar?
The York Rite is one of the two primary systems of appendant bodies in Freemasonry (the other being the Scottish Rite). Within the York Rite, after a Master Mason has completed the Royal Arch Chapter and Council of Royal & Select Masters degrees, he may petition to join the Commandery of Knights Templar. Here’s what you need to know:
- Christian Requirement: Unlike Blue Lodge (Craft) Freemasonry, which generally only requires a belief in a Supreme Being, the York Rite Knights Templar explicitly requires its members to profess a belief in the Christian religion. This is a fundamental distinction and underscores its chivalric, Christian-focused nature.
- Symbolic Succession: Members undergo a series of “Orders” (rather than degrees, though similar in structure) that retell narratives inspired by the Crusades and the historical Knights Templar. These include the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross, the Order of Malta, and finally, the Order of the Temple (Knights Templar). The rituals emphasize themes of chivalry, moral courage, sacrifice, and defending the Christian faith.
- Chivalric and Charitable Focus: Modern Knights Templar of the York Rite are not a military order in the historical sense. Their focus is on personal spiritual development, the practice of chivalry in daily life, and extensive charitable work. Many Grand Commanderies support eye foundations, provide scholarships, and engage in various community service projects.
- Structure: The organization is structured into local Commanderies, which are governed by Grand Commanderies in each state or jurisdiction, and ultimately, by the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America.
My own experience with Masons, including some who are Knights Templar, is that they hold these orders in deep respect. They don’t typically claim a direct, unbroken lineage from Jacques de Molay in a purely physical sense. Instead, they see themselves as upholding the spiritual, moral, and ethical traditions that the original Templars were perceived to embody. It’s about a continuity of ideals – courage, faith, service – rather than a direct, uninterrupted organizational charter. This distinction is vital; it prevents historical inaccuracies while allowing for a rich symbolic tradition to thrive.
The Labyrinth of Neo-Templar Orders: Self-Proclaimed Successors
Beyond the established structure of Masonic Knights Templar, the answer to “What are the Knights Templar called today” becomes far more complicated and, frankly, often murky. There are literally hundreds of independent organizations around the world that claim some form of modern Templar identity. These are often referred to as “neo-Templar” orders or groups. They range from serious, charitable fraternal organizations to esoteric spiritual groups, and even to outright frauds or role-playing societies.
Varieties of Neo-Templar Claims:
- Claiming Direct Lineage: Many neo-Templar groups assert an unbroken, secret lineage from the medieval Knights Templar, often through obscure documents, hidden grand masters, or a supposed underground survival during the centuries between 1314 and their modern re-emergence. These claims are almost universally unsubstantiated by mainstream historians and archival evidence. The historical consensus is that the original Order was definitively dissolved.
- Spiritual or Mystical Revival: Some groups focus less on historical lineage and more on the spiritual, esoteric, or mystical aspects associated with the Templars. They might delve into Gnosticism, alchemy, or other hermetic traditions, believing the Templars held secret knowledge that they now seek to revive.
- Chivalric and Charitable Orders: Many neo-Templar groups sincerely aim to revive the chivalric ideals of the original Templars – service to humanity, defense of Christian values, and charitable work. They often engage in community service, support Christian causes, or work to preserve historical sites.
- Historical Re-enactment or Fraternal Clubs: On the less serious end, some groups are essentially historical re-enactment societies, enjoying the regalia and camaraderie, while others are simply fraternal clubs that adopt Templar imagery.
A Checklist for Evaluating Neo-Templar Groups:
Given the sheer number and diverse nature of these organizations, how does one discern between a well-intentioned fraternal group and something less reputable? My advice, based on years of observing various organizations, would be to consider the following:
- Verifiable History: Does the group offer compelling, verifiable historical evidence for its claimed lineage? Be deeply skeptical of claims of “secret documents” or “hidden grand masters” that cannot be scrutinized by independent historians.
- Transparency: How transparent is the organization about its membership, finances, and leadership? Legitimate fraternal or charitable groups typically have public-facing information. Excessive secrecy, especially around finances or recruitment, can be a red flag.
- Purpose and Activities: What are the stated goals of the organization? Are they primarily focused on charity, community service, or ethical development? Or do they promote esoteric, political, or self-aggrandizing agendas?
- Financial Demands: Are there exorbitant fees or demands for donations, particularly early in the membership process? While legitimate organizations have dues, excessive or unexplained financial demands should raise concerns.
- Claims of Power or Influence: Does the group make outlandish claims about its power, influence, or the possession of secret knowledge that will unlock personal or global transformation? Be wary of groups promising extraordinary benefits for joining.
- Recognition: Is the group recognized by other established chivalric orders, historical societies, or reputable fraternal bodies? While not a perfect indicator, a lack of any external recognition can be telling.
- Mission: Is their mission clear, concise, and focused on tangible goals, or is it vague and aspirational without clear actions? Organizations with a concrete charitable or educational mission are generally more trustworthy.
In my opinion, most claims of direct, unbroken lineal succession from the medieval Knights Templar by these independent groups are, to put it mildly, romantic fictions. This isn’t to say they are all “bad” or “fake” in their intentions; many are undoubtedly sincere in their efforts to revive chivalric ideals. However, they lack the historical continuity that some of their more fervent adherents often claim. The crucial point is to separate historical fact from symbolic inspiration and modern reinterpretation.
The Enduring Appeal: Why the Knights Templar Persist
It’s fascinating, isn’t it, how an organization dissolved over 700 years ago still captures the imagination so profoundly? The question “What are the Knights Templar called today?” isn’t just about names; it speaks to a deep, human curiosity about mystery, power, and justice. Their story has everything: religious fervor, military prowess, immense wealth, secret knowledge (real or imagined), betrayal, and a tragic end. This blend has cemented them as a perennial subject of books, movies, and video games, from Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code” to “Assassin’s Creed.”
The allure of the Knights Templar lies in several factors:
- The “Unsolved Mystery”: The abrupt and brutal end of the Order, combined with persistent rumors of hidden treasure (the Holy Grail, the Ark of the Covenant, vast riches) and the escape of some members, has created an enduring sense of mystery. People love a good puzzle, and the Templars provide one of history’s most compelling.
- Chivalric Ideals: In a world often perceived as cynical, the ideals of chivalry, honor, courage, and self-sacrifice embodied by the warrior monks hold a powerful appeal. Modern groups, whether Masonic or independent, often tap into this desire to live by a higher code.
- Rebellion and Martyrdom: The narrative of the Templars as victims of a corrupt king and a weak pope, especially the martyrdom of Jacques de Molay, frames them as tragic heroes who stood against injustice. This resonates with a sense of romantic rebellion.
- Esoteric Knowledge: The belief that the Templars possessed secret knowledge, perhaps even predating Christianity, or that they were guardians of ancient truths, has made them a focal point for esoteric and occult traditions. This idea fuels a thirst for hidden wisdom.
My personal take is that the Knights Templar exist today not so much as a direct, unbroken organization, but as a powerful symbol. They represent an archetype – the warrior-monk, the guardian of secrets, the embodiment of a bygone era of chivalry. This symbolic power is what fuels the various modern groups, allowing them to draw inspiration, create rituals, and foster communities that feel connected to a grand, mysterious past. Whether it’s the structured philanthropy of the York Rite or the more esoteric pursuits of an independent order, they are all, in their own way, seeking to keep the Templar flame alive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Modern Knights Templar
The enduring mystique surrounding the Knights Templar naturally generates a lot of questions about their contemporary status. Here are some of the most common ones I’ve encountered, along with detailed answers:
Are the modern Knights Templar the same as the historical medieval ones?
No, the modern Knights Templar organizations are generally not considered to be direct, unbroken continuations of the medieval military order that was officially dissolved by papal decree in 1312. The historical Order ceased to exist as a papal-sanctioned entity. However, many modern groups, particularly the Knights Templar within the York Rite of Freemasonry, draw heavily on the history, symbolism, and chivalric ideals of the original Templars. They aim to perpetuate the spirit and virtues of the medieval knights, rather than claiming a direct, physical lineage through an unbroken chain of command from the original Grand Masters.
There were some historical instances where former Templars or their assets were absorbed into other existing orders, most notably the Order of Christ in Portugal. But even these were new organizations, albeit with Templar personnel and resources. The idea of a secret, underground survival of the original Order, while popular in fiction and among some neo-Templar groups, lacks substantial historical evidence that stands up to academic scrutiny. Therefore, while modern Templars are deeply inspired by their historical predecessors, they are distinct entities.
Is the York Rite Knights Templar a secret society like the original Templars were rumored to be?
The York Rite Knights Templar is an appendant body of Freemasonry, and as such, it shares many characteristics with Freemasonry itself. While Freemasonry is often characterized as a “secret society,” it is more accurately described as a “society with secrets.” Its rituals, passwords, and modes of recognition are private, but its existence, membership, and charitable activities are generally public. Similarly, the York Rite Knights Templar operates in the open. Its meeting places, known as Commanderies, are publicly listed, its leadership is known, and its charitable endeavors are often widely publicized.
Members do participate in private ceremonies and rituals, which are allegorical and instructive, designed to impart moral and ethical lessons based on the history and legends of the medieval Templars. However, these are not conducted in deep secrecy in the way historical espionage or clandestine political organizations might operate. Its goals are fraternal, spiritual, and charitable, not political or conspiratorial. So, while it maintains certain traditions of privacy, it is far from being a clandestine organization in the conspiratorial sense often associated with the medieval Templars.
Do modern Templar groups possess the legendary Templar treasure or the Holy Grail?
This is one of the most persistent and romanticized myths surrounding the Knights Templar, and it continues to be a central theme in popular culture. The short answer is: no, there is no credible evidence whatsoever that any modern Templar organization, whether Masonic or independent, possesses the legendary Templar treasure, the Holy Grail, the Ark of the Covenant, or any other significant historical artifact of such magnitude. These claims are firmly in the realm of fiction and speculation.
Historians have extensively researched the Templars’ wealth, and while they were indeed incredibly rich, their assets primarily consisted of land, buildings, and financial instruments of their time, which were largely seized by the crown and the Church upon their dissolution. Any liquid assets that may have been moved by Templars prior to the arrests were likely used by individual Templars to escape or support themselves, not hidden as a vast, coherent “treasure” for future generations. The idea of hidden, mystical artifacts like the Holy Grail being passed down is a compelling story, but it lacks any historical basis and remains entirely within the realm of legend. Modern Templar groups focus on symbolic and spiritual riches, not physical treasures.
What are the primary goals and activities of modern Knights Templar organizations?
The primary goals and activities of modern Knights Templar organizations, especially those within the York Rite of Freemasonry, center around the perpetuation of chivalric ideals, spiritual development, and extensive charitable work. While they are not military orders, they emphasize moral courage, self-discipline, and the defense of Christian principles in a spiritual and ethical sense.
Members are encouraged to live lives of honor, integrity, and service. Charitable activities are a cornerstone of their work; for instance, the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar in the United States maintains an impressive Knights Templar Eye Foundation, which provides assistance for eye research and treatment, regardless of Masonic affiliation or ability to pay. Many Commanderies also engage in local community service, support youth programs, offer scholarships, and contribute to various Christian charities. The emphasis is on personal growth, brotherhood, and contributing positively to society, reflecting a modern interpretation of ancient virtues.
How can one join a legitimate modern Knights Templar group?
The path to joining a modern Knights Templar group varies significantly depending on the specific organization. For the most widely recognized and structured modern “Knights Templar” – that is, the Knights Templar within the York Rite of Freemasonry – there are very clear prerequisites:
- Be a Master Mason: You must first be a Master Mason in good standing in a recognized Masonic lodge. This means you have completed the three degrees of Craft (Blue Lodge) Freemasonry.
- Join the York Rite: After becoming a Master Mason, you must then join and complete the degrees within a Royal Arch Chapter and a Council of Royal & Select Masters, which are the preceding bodies in the York Rite progression.
- Profess Christian Belief: A fundamental requirement for joining the Knights Templar is a sincere belief in the Christian religion. This is distinct from regular Freemasonry, which generally requires belief in a Supreme Being but does not specify a particular faith.
- Petition for Membership: Once these conditions are met, you can petition a local Commandery of Knights Templar for membership. The process typically involves an interview, a ballot by current members, and then undergoing the Orders of the Red Cross, Malta, and the Temple.
For independent or neo-Templar groups, the requirements can vary wildly. Some may also require Christian belief, others might be open to various spiritual paths. Their application processes could range from simple online forms to more involved vetting procedures. As advised earlier, significant research and due diligence are crucial when considering such groups to ensure their legitimacy and alignment with your personal values.
