The Real Knights Templar: Unveiling the Truth

Unveiling the Mystery of the Knights Templar

By Alan Crawford

In the midst of the captivating lore surrounding the Knights Templar, the Scottish Sunday embarked on a search for the truth behind these ancient warriors. Tucked away in the enchanting grounds of Rosslyn Chapel, we were granted an exclusive insight into the modern-day Order of the Knights Templar. Contrary to the popular imagination, we discovered that this ancient order is more akin to a Rotary Club in fancy dress than a group of conspirators hunting for the Holy Grail.

Ancient Roots Meets Modern Charity

The investiture ceremony held at Rosslyn Chapel caught our attention after an anonymous tip-off. It was a gathering of the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem, a modern branch of Templars founded in 1804 with the support of Napoleon. The Order is dedicated to charitable works and antiquarian research, rather than clandestine conspiracies.

Dispelling the Myths

Chevalier Hugh Brawley, a member of the Order from Glasgow, quashed the notion of any mystical or mysterious undertones associated with the Templars. He emphasized that the Order's purpose is far from hocus pocus. The Knights Templar, with members hailing from France, the US, Scotland, and England, gathered at Rosslyn Chapel for the investiture while the sun cast long shadows.

Da Vinci Code's Influence

The Templars have gained significant notoriety due to Dan Brown's bestseller, The Da Vinci Code. As the book's film adaptation starring Tom Hanks was set to hit cinemas, public fascination with the Templars soared. However, not everyone is pleased with the attention. The Catholic Church in Italy denounced the book as spreading lies, while the Templars themselves acknowledge the influence but stress the need for a more practical approach.

The True Essence of the Knights Templar

Charity and Humanitarianism at the Core

Contrary to the popular conspiracy theories, the Knights Templar are focused on making a positive impact on the world. The Order operates as a registered charity and is an active member of the International Peace Bureau. Recognized by the United Nations Social Council, the Templars engage in various humanitarian projects.

Real-World Aid and Assistance

Members of the Order, often financially well-off, are swift to provide aid in times of crisis. From organizing aid shipments to post-tsunami Sri Lanka to facilitating medical supplies to Baghdad hospitals, the Templars spare no effort in helping those in need. The Order's charitable funds also benefit organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières, which aids countries dealing with humanitarian crises.

A Modern International Rotary Club

The Knights Templar function as a democratic and inclusive organization. Their membership consists of both men and women, and religious background holds no significance. The values of Christian love, humanity, and assisting others define the Order's mission. In contrast to the sensationalism of books like The Da Vinci Code, the true mystery lies in the Templars' commitment to being decent human beings.

Rosslyn Chapel: A Symbolic Setting

Anchoring Templar History

Located near Edinburgh, Rosslyn Chapel holds a significant place in Templar history. Built in the 15th century by William Sinclair of the St Clair family, notable Templars, the chapel is adorned with intricate carvings and mysterious figures associated with Freemasonry and the Templars. The chapel's significance has sparked countless theories, from its connection to the Holy Grail to its role as a Templar route map.

Scotland's Templar Legacy

Scotland has a rich association with the Templars, with multiple Templar Priories established across the country. Historically, the Templars remained active not only at Rosslyn but also throughout the valley. According to Brigadier General Pat Rea, the international head of the Order, there is no doubt that Scotland played a vital role in Templar history alongside locations in France and Portugal.

Conclusion

The Knights Templar's true identity lies far from the sensationalism depicted in popular culture. As we discovered at Rosslyn Chapel, these modern-day Templars are committed to noble causes, charity, and humanitarianism. Their impact extends far beyond conspiracy theories and mysterious legends, showcasing the essence of humanity and compassion through their efforts around the world.