The Knights Templar: A Resurgence in the 21st Century

by Peter August 14, 2024

written by Peter August 14, 2024

The Knights Templar: A 21st-Century Revival

Historical Legacy

The Knights Templar, a renowned medieval Christian order, were disbanded 700 years ago. However, in the 21st century, they have experienced a revival. Members of the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem (SMOTJ), a charitable organization, consider themselves spiritual descendants of the original Templars.

Origins and Disbandment

The original Knights Templar emerged in the 12th century to protect Christian pilgrims in Palestine. They were known for their bravery in battle and their financial acumen. However, in 1307, King Philip IV of France and Pope Clement V instigated the destruction of the order, accusing the Templars of heresy and other crimes.

Modern Revivalism

Today, Templar revivalism remains strong. European neo-fascists, such as Anders Breivik, have adopted Templar iconography. Drug cartels like Los Caballeros Templarios have borrowed from Templar symbolism. Yet, the SMOTJ and other Templar revivalist organizations emphasize their commitment to history and Christian advocacy.

SMOTJ: A Tax-Exempt Charitable Organization

The SMOTJ, founded in the 1960s, is recognized by Napoleon Bonaparte and claims 5,000 members worldwide. Its primary mission is to raise funds for Christian causes in the Holy Land. SMOTJ members also participate in international diplomacy and network through a closed-membership smartphone app.

Membership and Benefits

Membership in the SMOTJ offers networking opportunities, uniforms, and titles. The modern order recruits heavily from military officers. Many members are drawn to the ideals of chivalry and the chance to advocate for persecuted Christians.

Investiture Ceremony

The investiture ceremony for new members is a formal event that takes place in a church. Postulants kneel and are dubbed with a sword, and a riding spur is touched to their heels. There are also numerous awards and promotions given out.

Internationalism and Diplomacy

SMOTJ members are involved in various international initiatives. They sit on advisory committees in the United Nations and aspire to have the order formally recognized by the Vatican. Some members discuss using their worldwide connections for back-channel diplomacy.

Historical Fascination and Prejudice

While most SMOTJ members are fascinated by the history of the Templars, some express prejudice toward Muslims. However, others recognize the contributions of Muslims in the past, such as the 12th-century Syrian writer Usama ibn Munqidh who praised the Templars.

Contemporary Realities

Despite historical inaccuracies and occasional expressions of prejudice, SMOTJ members engage in charitable work, promote peace, and participate in meaningful discussions about international affairs. They are passionate about their mission and believe that they are upholding the legacy of the medieval Knights Templar.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.