Beyond the Apron and the Sword: What the Knights Templar and Freemasons Really Do

Dispelling the myths and explaining what the Knights Templar and Freemasonry actually are — rather than what Dan Brown, Reddit, and half of YouTube imagine them to be.

Introduction

For centuries, the Knights Templar and the Freemasons have fascinated, confused, and occasionally terrified the public. From whispered secrets of buried treasure to outlandish claims of world domination, the myths are as persistent as they are inventive. This essay aims to separate fact from fiction, ritual from rumour, and initiate the lay reader into the reality of two ancient traditions grounded not in secrecy — but in service, character, and community.

Part 1: The Knights Templar – Chivalry, Charity, and Faith

Origins

Founded in the early 12th century, the original Knights Templar were warrior monks charged with protecting Christian pilgrims en route to Jerusalem. They quickly grew into a powerful military, political, and financial force across medieval Europe, before being suppressed in 1312 by Pope Clement V. In modern times, various fraternal and charitable organisations have revived the Templar name in a symbolic and spiritual context.

Today’s Templars

• They are not crusading Vatican commandos or Grail-hiding mystics.
• Modern Templar orders are Christian, chivalric, and service-oriented.
• Activities focus on charity, remembrance, and spiritual fellowship.

Common Myths Debunked

• “They guard the Holy Grail.” – More likely to guard the biscuits at Lodge meetings.
• “They’re part of the Illuminati.” – Only if the dress code includes tabards and Latin chants.

Part 2: Freemasonry – Allegory, Morality, and Self-Improvement

Origins

Freemasonry grew out of the stonemasons’ guilds of medieval Europe. By the 17th century, it had evolved into a symbolic and philosophical society focused on moral development, personal improvement, and fraternity. Its tools — the square, compass, and level — are metaphorical instruments for building a better self.

Structure and Degrees

• The “Blue Lodge” comprises three core degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.
• Beyond these, members may explore additional rites such as the York Rite or Scottish Rite.
• Freemasonry requires belief in a Supreme Being, but is non-denominational and open to many faiths.

What Masons Really Do

• Support numerous charities, often quietly and locally.
• Promote fellowship, education, and moral self-reflection.
• Conduct symbolic rituals to convey philosophical lessons — sometimes in full regalia, always with purpose.

Common Myths Debunked

• “They run the world.” – Most struggle to run a raffle without twelve meetings and a spreadsheet.
• “They worship Lucifer.” – Utter nonsense, based on wild misreadings of symbolic texts.

Part 3: Where the Two Meet – and Where They Don’t

Similarities

• Both are fraternal organisations with ceremonial traditions, moral frameworks, and regalia.
• They value discipline, integrity, and a strong sense of brotherhood.
• Some Masonic bodies include Templar-style orders (e.g. Knights Templar within the York Rite).

Differences

• Templars are explicitly Christian and focused on chivalry and devotion.
• Freemasons are spiritually inclusive and built on allegory, not faith alone.
• Their degrees, rituals, and historical development diverge significantly after the third Masonic degree.

Conclusion: Light Instead of Smoke

Rather than global conspirators, modern Freemasons and Knights Templar are people of principle, ceremony, and service. Their secrets are symbolic, their power is fraternal, and their real influence is quietly felt in acts of charity, mentoring, and community. The myths may persist, but the truth — as ever — is far more human, and far more honourable.

Author's Note: Any resemblance between actual members and world-controlling lizard people is purely coincidental. Unless, of course, you’ve passed the Fourth Degree — in which case, we meet behind the organ loft on alternate Tuesdays. On the square.