The True Descendants Of the Knights Templar: Unveiling The Mystery
The Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order, has sparked curiosity and intrigue for centuries. While historians generally agree that the order disbanded over 700 years ago, some people believe that the Knights Templar went underground and still exists in some form today. This notion has led to a multitude of theories and speculation about the true descendants of the Knights Templar.
One such theory suggests that the Freemasons, a secretive fraternity with roots in the Middle Ages, might be the true descendants of the Knights Templar. While connections between the two organizations are not definitively proven, both groups share a history of mystique, symbolism, and ritual practices.
Others believe that the Knights Templar may have left a legacy through their bloodlines, with some people tracing their ancestry back to these medieval knights. This has led to a growing interest in genealogical research to uncover potential links to the order.
Though evidence supporting direct lineage to the Knights Templar remains scarce, it is undeniable that the order’s story and aura continue to captivate people worldwide. As more information comes to light, the debate over the true descendants of the Knights Templar remains a fascinating topic of exploration and discussion.
Who Are the Descendants of The Knights Templar?
Although the Order of the Knights Templar was officially disbanded in the early 14th century, there have been claims about the existence of their descendants in North America and Europe. Certain families and organizations are said to have inherited the ideals and achievements of the Knights Templar, carrying on their legacy in the modern world.
One prominent family linked to the descendants of the Knights Templar is the Sinclair family, originally from France and Scotland. They were known as the Grandmasters of the Knights Templar, and their lineage traces back to the 15th century, as featured in a book about their history. Additionally, the Kennedys of Ireland, and the Vaughan and Morgan families of Wales, are believed to be the descendants of the Knights. They are associated with the Holy Sepulcher and the biblical times of Golgotha.
Apart from specific families, there are organizations such as the Descendants of the Templar Knights (DTK), founded on October 20, 2018, which aims to honor and perpetuate the memory and ideals of the Knights Templar. Members of this organization claim to be the descendants of the original knights and are dedicated to preserving their legacy and achievements.
The origins of the Knights Templar are also linked to a group of European royalty, known as the Rex Deus families, who are said to be descended from Jewish Elders fleeing the Holy Land in 70 AD. Modern Templar historians, such as Tim Wallace-Murphy and Christopher Knight, argue that these families banded together to form the original Order of the Knights Templar. Thus, the descendants of these families may also be considered the descendants of the Knights Templar. More information about the Rex Deus families can be found in this article.
While it is challenging to trace the direct lineage of the true descendants of the Knights Templar, there are certain families and organizations that claim to have inherited their legacy. By honoring the memory and achievements of the original knights, these descendants strive to keep the spirit of the Knights Templar alive in the modern world.
Who Are the Descendants of The First Templars?
The descendants of the first Templars are not easy to trace, as little information is available on the personal lives and activities of these knights. Some sources provide brief biographies of half of the nine original members of the Knights Templar, but establishing a lineage from these individuals remains challenging.
While several organizations, such as the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem (SMOTJ), claim a connection to the original Knights Templar, it is important to keep in mind that these groups are not direct descendants of the first Templars. Instead, they follow the footsteps and principles of the medieval Knights and engaged in charitable and humanitarian activities.
There are modern Templar historians, such as Tim Wallace-Murphy and Christopher Knight, who have presented the theory that the first Knights Templar were part of a wave of European royalty descending from Jewish Elders. These Elders were said to have fled the Holy Land around 70 AD when it was invaded by the Romans. This theory suggests that the descendants of the first Templars could be part of these so-called “Rex Deus” families, but this concept is still heavily debated among historians.
Some researchers have explored the possibility of tracing the descendants of the first Templars through genealogical projects, such as the one hosted on Geni.com. While this project documents several Templar Knights throughout history, it remains difficult to establish a definitive connection between these individuals’ descendants and the original nine members of the order.
Due to the scarcity of information and lack of definitive evidence, it is not possible to conclusively identify the direct descendants of the first Knights Templar. However, the theories and genealogical research suggest that the legacy of the order continues to live on through various organizations and families who maintain an interest in the history and ideals of the Knights Templar.
Legends and Myths
One such popular myth revolves around the Knights Templar’s supposed association with the Holy Grail. The German writer Wolfram von Eschenbach, in his epic romantic poem Parzival, detailed the story of the Holy Grail’s protection by a secret society believed to be the Knights Templar.
Another legend claims that the Knights Templar had knowledge of the New World before Christopher Columbus’s voyage. The theory is based on a 1558 Venetian manuscript recounting the Zeno family history. However, there is limited evidence supporting this claim.
The treasure of the Knights Templar is another alluring legend. It is said that the Templars amassed a vast amount of wealth, which remains hidden to this day. King Phillip IV of France, who ordered the arrest of the Templars in 1307, believed that the order had grown too powerful and sought to seize their riches.
In relation to their origin, there are claims that the founding members of the Knights Templar were descendants of Jewish elders, specifically the original nine members who were connected to the Rex Deus families. This theory has intrigued scholars and researchers, contributing to the enigmatic aura surrounding the Knights Templar.
These legends and myths, though fascinating, must be approached with skepticism. The Knights Templar, despite their controversial past, played a significant role in medieval history, and their legacy continues to captivate the imagination and curiosity of historians and enthusiasts alike.
Possible Descendants and Successor Organizations
Freemasonry
The Knights Templar has inspired various organizations, including the Freemasons, who share some similarities with the medieval order. The Freemasons have a degree within their system called the “Order of the Temple,” which incorporates symbols and rituals influenced by the Knights Templar.
While the connection between the two is not direct, the Freemasons honor the historical legacy of the Knights Templar, and some consider them the spiritual successors of the order. However, it is essential to note that Freemasonry has different goals and functions than the medieval Templar order.
The Order of the Solar Temple
Another organization that claims a connection to the Knights Templar is the Order of the Solar Temple. Founded in 1984 by Luc Jouret and Joseph Di Mambro, the Order of the Solar Temple was a secret society with esoteric beliefs that combined elements of Christianity, New Age spirituality, and the ideals of the medieval Templars.
Despite their claims of Templar heritage, the organization gained notoriety in the 1990s for several mass suicides and murders that took place within the order. The connection to the original Knights Templar is tenuous and controversial.
The Sovereign Military Order of Malta
The Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM) is a more direct descendant of medieval military orders. Established in 1099, this order is not a direct continuation of the Knights Templar but is often mentioned in discussions about Templar descendants due to its similarities.
Today, the SMOM is focused on humanitarian efforts worldwide and works to maintain its historical mission of providing medical and military assistance during conflicts and natural disasters. While the order bears some resemblance to the Knights Templar, their distinct histories and focuses make them separate entities.
Who Were the Original Knights Templar?
The Knights Templar was a medieval Christian military order founded in the early 12th century. Their primary mission was to protect European travelers visiting holy sites in the Middle East, particularly during the Crusades. The first headquarters of the Knights Templar was on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, from which they derived their name.
The order initially consisted of two main classes: knights and sergeants. The knight-brothers were members of the military aristocracy and trained in the arts of war, taking on elite leadership positions. The lower-ranked sergeant-brothers were responsible for various support functions, including administration and serving in the order’s estates.
The original nine members of the Knights Templar were either born into or related to the Rex Deus families. Godfrey de Bouillon, a French general, led them in their battle against the Saracens during the First Crusade. His cousin, King Baldwin II of Jerusalem, aided the Templars in retrieving treasures and donated the al-Aqsa Mosque for their use.
Throughout their existence, the Knights Templar gained significant power and wealth, which eventually led to their downfall. They were disbanded in the early 14th century when their leaders were arrested, and their properties were seized by the crown.
Debunking and Modern Interpretations
Over the years, some have claimed to be true descendants of the original order or to have uncovered hidden secrets about the Knights Templar. However, these assertions are often based on inaccuracies or exaggerations.
For instance, one common myth is that the Knights Templar found and hoarded the treasure of Solomon during their time in Jerusalem. While the order accumulated vast wealth through their innovative banking system, there is no concrete evidence supporting the notion that they discovered Solomon’s treasure.
Furthermore, the belief in a strong connection between the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th and the Knights Templar has been debunked by numerous scholars. According to Sky HISTORY, the fear of Friday the 13th, known as paraskevidekatriaphobia, didn’t enter the collective consciousness until the 20th century, despite the fact that the French Templars were arrested on that date in 1307.
Related: What Happened To The Knights Templar On Friday The 13th
It is true, however, that there are modern organizations that claim to be following in the footsteps of the original Knights Templar. In the United States, for example, the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem is composed of individuals who don the white mantles with red crosses, similar to the original Knights Templar. Despite these outward similarities, none of these organizations have a direct lineage to the historical order.
It is crucial to approach these modern interpretations and legends with skepticism and to rely on the historical evidence for a true understanding of the Knights Templar’s legacy. Separate fact from fiction, they continue to fascinate historians and the public alike, serving as a testament to the enduring intrigue that surrounds this storied order.
Conclusion
The true descendants of the Knights Templar remain an intriguing topic, especially considering the order’s influence on the world during the medieval period. The Templars were known for their prowess in battle, as well as their significant contributions to Christian finance and infrastructure across Christendom. However, their ultimate demise was brought about by factors such as the failure of the Crusades and financial issues faced by notable figures such as King Philip IV of France.
Various historical and contemporary groups have claimed association with the Knights Templar’s lineage, citing shared values or borrowing heavily from the Templar’s symbolism. While it is difficult to conclusively prove or disprove their connections to the original order, these organizations actively carry on the Templar legacy in various ways.
Understanding the true descendants of the Knights Templar not only provides insights into medieval history but also highlights the power of mythology and symbolism in shaping modern encounters with the past. The legacy of the Templars continues to inspire countless individuals and groups worldwide, keeping their history alive in modern times.
Sources:
Knight Templar ancestors – how to find them?
The Origin of the Knights Templar – Descendants of Jewish Elders?