By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS
The Knights Templars have long held a place in history as one of the most legendary Christian military orders. Their exploits during the Crusades, their influence over medieval Europe, and their mysterious demise under accusations of heresy in the early 14th century have spurred countless myths, theories, and modern organizations claiming their legacy. But are the Knights Templars still active today? If so, do they still engage in military endeavors or wars as they once did?
As a Christian conservative, a Freemason, and someone deeply interested in historical and spiritual truths, I have researched the modern-day claims surrounding the Templars. In this article, I aim to dispel myths, uncover truths, and provide clarity on the Knights Templars' existence and activities in the present age.
The Original Templars and Their Purpose
Founded in 1119, the Knights Templars were created to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Their dual mission of military defense and spiritual devotion made them unique among the orders of their time. Over the next two centuries, they grew to immense power, wealth, and influence.
However, their dramatic fall in 1312—after accusations of heresy, likely spurred by political jealousy—officially ended their medieval incarnation. With the disbandment of the order, the Templars’ lands and assets were confiscated, and many members were executed or absorbed into other groups like the Knights Hospitaller.
Are the Knights Templars Still Active?
While the original Knights Templars ceased to exist as a formal organization, the spirit of the Templar order has inspired modern groups. Today, there are various organizations claiming a connection to the Templars, most notably:
- The Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem (SMOTJ): A non-military, chivalric Christian organization that engages in charity and promotes the preservation of Christian heritage.
- Freemasonic Templar Degrees: Within Freemasonry, certain rites, such as the York Rite, include Templar symbolism and degrees. These are ceremonial rather than militant and focus on spiritual growth and Christian values.
- Modern Templar Revival Movements: Various groups in Europe and elsewhere claim lineage or inspiration from the Templars. However, most lack historical continuity and are primarily symbolic or philanthropic.
Are They Still Militaristic or Engaged in Wars?
Modern organizations inspired by the Templars are not militaristic in the sense of engaging in physical warfare. Unlike their medieval predecessors, these groups operate within legal frameworks and focus on humanitarian, spiritual, or fraternal goals.
However, their commitment to defending Christian values can be seen in symbolic ways. For example:
- Humanitarian Efforts: Many modern Templar organizations, such as SMOTJ, focus on aiding persecuted Christians worldwide, especially in regions like the Middle East where faith-based violence continues.
- Cultural Preservation: Groups like the Freemasonic Templars seek to uphold the principles of truth, justice, and the protection of Christian and Western heritage.
- Advocacy: Some organizations engage in advocacy for religious freedom, mirroring the Templars’ historic mission of defending Christendom.
While these activities are not militaristic in the traditional sense, they reflect a “spiritual warfare” against moral decay, persecution, and the erosion of Christian principles in modern society (Ephesians 6:12).
The Templar Legacy: Relevant for Christians Today?
The Templars’ legacy is one of faith, courage, and dedication to Christian principles. Their story serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the need for vigilance in preserving faith. As a Christian conservative, I see parallels between their battles and the spiritual, cultural, and ideological wars we face today.
Modern-day Templar-inspired groups, even without swords or battlefields, fight for what the medieval Templars valued most: the protection of Christians and the defense of righteousness.
This mission resonates deeply with me, as someone who has turned away from ideologies like socialism and Islam that sought to undermine Christian values, and toward the eternal truths of Jesus Christ and the Gospel.
The Templars’ call to "defend the faith" can inspire all Christians to take a stand in today’s world—not with violence but with unwavering commitment to God, truth, and freedom.
Conclusion
While the medieval Knights Templars no longer exist, their ideals live on through modern organizations that emphasize charity, spiritual devotion, and the protection of Christian heritage. These groups, while non-militaristic, carry the Templar spirit of defending the faith in new and relevant ways for our time.
As Christians, we should remember that the ultimate warfare is spiritual, and our greatest weapons are faith, prayer, and righteous living. The Templars’ example challenges us to remain steadfast in our convictions, even in the face of modern-day challenges.
Citations
- Nicholson, Helen. The Knights Templar: A New History. The History Press, 2001.
- Barber, Malcolm. The Trial of the Templars. Cambridge University Press, 2006.
- Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem. "Who We Are." Accessed November 19, 2024. https://www.smotj.org
- Upton-Ward, J. M. The Rule of the Templars: The French Text of the Rule of the Order of the Knights Templar. Boydell Press, 1992.
- Ephesians 6:12, The Holy Bible, King James Version.
No comments:
Post a Comment