Term
Knight Templar
A military order founded in 1119 to defend Jerusalem, later becoming influential bankers before being suppressed in 1312.
Filed underChurch History
Definition
A military order founded in 1119 by Hugues de Payens to defend Jerusalem against recapture by the Muslims. In 1128, Bernard gave them a form of the Cistercian rule. By the 13th century they had become influential bankers of Europe. Philip IV of France brought various charges against them, and the order was suppressed by Pope Clement V at Vienne in 1312.
Sources
- 1.Jerald C. Brauer and B. A. Gerrish, ed. The Westminster Dictionary of Church History. (Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1971). 550Original citation: Brauer, Jerald C., and B. A. Gerrish, eds. The Westminster Dictionary of Church History. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1971, 550.
Last revised August 14, 2026