Topical Encyclopedia
The term "Templar" is historically associated with the Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order founded in the early 12th century. While the Bible does not directly reference the Templars, their existence and mission were deeply rooted in Christian theology and the defense of the Holy Land, which holds significant biblical importance.
Historical BackgroundThe Knights Templar were established around 1119 AD, during the time of the Crusades, with the primary mission of protecting Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. The order was officially endorsed by the Catholic Church in 1129 AD, gaining significant influence and wealth over the following centuries. The Templars took monastic vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and were known for their distinctive white mantles adorned with a red cross.
Biblical ContextThe Templars' mission was inspired by biblical themes of pilgrimage, warfare, and the defense of the faith. The concept of pilgrimage is deeply rooted in Scripture, as seen in the journeys to Jerusalem for worship and festivals (e.g.,
Psalm 122:1, "I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the LORD.'"). The defense of the faith and the idea of spiritual warfare are also present in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to "put on the full armor of God" (
Ephesians 6:11) to stand against spiritual adversaries.
Theological SignificanceThe Templars viewed their military service as a form of spiritual warfare, aligning with the biblical call to defend the faith. This is reflected in passages such as
1 Timothy 6:12 , "Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession before many witnesses." The Templars saw themselves as warriors for Christ, tasked with protecting the sacred sites of Christianity and ensuring safe passage for pilgrims.
Legacy and InfluenceThe Knights Templar left a lasting legacy on both religious and secular history. Their influence extended beyond military endeavors, as they became involved in banking and commerce, contributing to the economic development of medieval Europe. The order was disbanded in the early 14th century, but their legacy endures in popular culture and historical studies.
Biblical ReflectionsWhile the Templars themselves are not mentioned in the Bible, their mission and values can be seen as an extension of biblical principles of faith, protection, and service. The call to defend the faith and support fellow believers is echoed in passages such as
Jude 1:3 , "Beloved, although I made every effort to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt it necessary to write and urge you to contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints."
In summary, the Templars' dedication to their cause reflects a commitment to Christian principles, drawing inspiration from the biblical themes of pilgrimage, spiritual warfare, and the defense of the faith. Their historical role as protectors of the Holy Land and defenders of Christian pilgrims highlights the enduring significance of these biblical concepts.
Topical Bible Verses
Acts 20:28Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood.
Topicalbible.org2 Timothy 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
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John 14:6
Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by me.
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John 1:9
That was the true Light, which lights every man that comes into the world.
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Library
Honorable Submission
... up to the Mountain, looking for employment, because I wanted to locate myself in
such a place, if I could, till the celebration of the Knights Templar was over ...
/.../chapter viii honorable submission.htm
New York to California
... One morning I read in the paper the following announcement: "The Knights Templar
of the United States have made their plans to celebrate the 29th triennial ...
/.../conversion of a high priest into a christian worker/chapter vii new york to.htm
The Popes at Avignon; the Ruin of the Templars (Ad 1303-1312)
... At this time the number of the Templar Knights was about fifteen thousand"the finest
soldiers in the world; and the whole number of persons attached to the ...
/.../chapter xvii the popes at.htm
Resources
What was Herod's temple? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Zerubbabel's temple/the second temple? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Solomon's temple / the first temple? How many temples were there? | GotQuestions.orgTemple: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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