Note: This material was scanned into text files for the sole purpose of
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A TEMPLAR
ENCYCLOPEDIA
Prepared by RAY V, DENSLOW for the
Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of Missouri
An Encyclopedia of the Chivalric
Rite of Freemasonry
By RAY V. DENSLOW
The poorest informed Freemasons of the American or York Rite
of Freemasonry are those belonging to the Order of Knights Templar.
The reason for this lack of information is not the fault of the individual
Templar, but because of the failure of the Grand Encampment and
Grand Commanderies to acquaint them with the facts regarding the
formation of the Order and its associated degrees (or Orders as they
prefer to call them). It is true there are encyclopedias of Freemasonry,
but the average Templar is not going to spend his time searching
through several thousand articles in an attempt to find something
concerning the Orders of Christian Knighthood. And again, he might not
recognize a Templar reference as such.
For the busy Templar, and we presume most of our colaborers
are such—we offer this condensed encyclopedia which we hope may
prove invaluable to the Templar enthusiast, enabling him to answer
some of those many requests for information. The editor is not infallible
and so will appreciate any suggestions or corrections that our readers
may find in any of the articles.
Many fallacies have crept into the story of Freemasonry and its
connection with the Crusades; we hesitate to debunk these various
claims, yet an Order founded on Truth and the practice of Christian
virtues should be the first to call attention to misstatements and
misrepresentations.
In the first place, the Order of Knights Templar, as we know it
today, is not a direct descendant of the Ancient Templars who fought to
wrest the Holy Land from the Saracen. The socalled Charter of
Larmenius, said to convey the title to the "moderns" is generally
regarded as a literary forgery. The socalled list of Grand Masters of the
Order, which many Grand Commanderies
Copyright, 1951, by Ray V. Denslow
1c
2c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
carry in the appendix of their proceedings is a feeble attempt to tie up
with our Ancient friends and serves no useful purpose except to the
printer who gets $6 or $7 per page.
The present day Templar, with the "Confederate Admiral's"
chapeau and its "flowing (sometime greying) plume" is a modern
innovation! Can you imagine one of our ancient brethren wearing one of
these headpinchers in the tropical atmosphere of the Holy Land?
We do not know who formulated the ritual of the various Orders
of Red Cross, Malta and the Temple. Whoever he may have been, he
was certainly unacquainted with history or he would never have joined
together such Orders as the Knights Hospitaler, the Order of Templars,
or the Order of Malta, for history proves that they were rival and
competitive Orders, having little to do with each other—a feeling that
resulted in many enmities and jealousies. The ritual has undergone so
many changes in the past century or more as to be unrecognizable to
our illustrious founders. Following World War I, superpatriotic
individuals added the pledge to the Flag, amplified and modified from
triennial to triennial, and so sectional as to make its use impractical
outside the U. S. A. Certainly it would not fit into the Mexican or
Philippine picture where the Grand Encampment has subordinates.
After all, it is immaterial whether we have direct connection with
the Ancient Templars, or whether we do not. We cannot live on the
reputation of our ancestors ! That has been tried out in Japan and in
China; our ancestors are just as good as they acted, and no better. Our
Templar antecedents were human beings—and history recounts they
were exceedingly human ! Some of their exploits proved their bravery,
but bravery without morality is worthless. Instead of taking the Gospel of
Christianity to the Holy Land, they brought back all of the vices of the
East.
Yet, we must pay tribute to their accomplishments, for out of all
this came the Reformation and the Renaissance.
The Crusades were great periods in our World History. We
advise our readers to study the forces at work. Here were a series of
wars brought on by religious zeal, encouraged by the Pope and the
Roman Catholic Church; encouraged, we are inclined to think, with the
idea of taking away power from the
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 3c
various religious orders who were becoming strong numerically and
financially. Most foolish of all the Crusades was the Children's Crusade,
organized under the mistaken idea that God would intervene in behalf of
the thousands of children who set forth, never to return, on a foolish
expedition planned by religious fanatics.
But these facts and fallacies should not detract from a great
Christian Order founded on Truth, and teaching the Christian virtues of
Universal Brotherhood, Benevolence, and Hospitality. Of these virtues
there can be no criticism. The strength of Templary is not altogether in
its numbers, in its fulsome treasury, its waving plumes, or gaudy
parades. Its strength is in the hearts of those thousands of its members
who strive honestly and earnestly in their daily lives to exemplify those
virtues taught by Jesus Christ who wore neither uniform, plume, sword
nor gauntlet, and who carried no weapon to protect himself—no shield to
defend his person.
Abbreviations: Freemasonry has a large list of names, words
and nomenclatures that are abbreviated; these are found in the rituals,
proceedings and correspondence of members. Here are some of the
most common abbreviations used in the Commandery:
A.O.: Anno Ordinis, the "Year of the Order."
C.G.: Captain General.
Chanc.: Chancellor.
Chap.: Chaplain.
C.o.O.: Captain of the Outposts.
C.o.G.: Captain of the Guards.
Em.: Eminent, title applied to the office (not the man) of
Commander or Past Commander.
E.C.: Eminent Commander, the head of a Commandery.
E.P.: Eminent Prior, head of a Priory.
E.H.P.: Excellent High Priest, head of a Jewish Council.
G.: Grand, usually prefixed to title of officer to show membership
in a higher body.
Gen.: Generalissimo.
H.P.: High Priest, officer of a Jewish Council.
I.O.R.C.: Illustrious Order of Red Cross.
J.W.: Junior Warden, officer of a Commandery.
K.M.: Knight of Malta.
K.T.: Knight Templar.
Lt. Corn.: Lieutenant Commander, officer of a Priory.
M.C.: Master of Cavalry, officer of Red Cross Order.
M.D.: Master of Dispatches, officer of Red Cross Order.
4c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE I May,
M.F.: Master of Finance, officer of Red Cross Order.
M.I.: Master of Infantry, officer of Red Cross Order.
M.E.: Most Eminent, title applied to office of Grand Master of
Templars.
O.M.: Order of Malta.
O.R.C.: Order of Red Cross.
O.T.: Order of Temple.
Prel.: Prelate, officer of a Commandery.
P.C.: Prince Chancellor, officer of Red Cross Order. Also Past
Commander.
Pr.: Prior, officer of a Priory.
P.M.P.: Price Master of Palace, officer of Red Cross Order.
Rec.: Recorder, officer of a Commandery.
R.E.: Right Eminent, title applied to a Grand or Past Grand
Commander.
S.M.: Sovereign Master, presiding officer of Red Cross Order.
St. B.: Standard Bearer, officer of a Commandery.
Sen.: Sentinel, guard to a Commandery.
Sw. B.: Sword Bearer, officer of a Commandery.
S.W.: Senior Warden, officer of a Commandery.
Treas.: Treasurer, officer of a Commandery.
V.E.: Very Eminent, title applied to Deputy Grand Commander.
W.: Warder.
Ablutions: An ablution is a ceremonial cleansing or washing
used as a symbol of purification. In all ancient mysteries the ceremony of
ablution was always necessary. Freemasonry, in many of its
ceremonies, employs the ceremony of ablution.
Adjourn: The Grand Encampment and the Grand Commandery
do not close—they adjourn.
Admiral: The third officer seated at the Table in the West; he
has no ritualistic duties.
Affiliation: One who desires to transfer membership from one
commandery to another does so through a Certificate of Good Standing
or Dimit; the act of petitioning another commandery, and election there,
is said to be an affiliation. Membership is completed when the electing
Commandery receives the Dimit of the petitioner.
Alarm: A warning sound to arouse attention; in case of an
enemy it is a summons to arms.
Alms: The Commander of a Commandery is charged with giving
alms to poor and weary pilgrims; the word alms is today referred to as
small amounts of money. This is a far change from its original meaning,
which once signified any sort of sympathy or merciful feeling, and which
was undoubtedly the intent of the early writers of our ritual.
Altar of Masonry: There is a legendary story that tells of the
ransacking of the Temple of Solomon, the carrying away of the
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 5c
Holy Vessels and Altar of Freemasonry. A reference is made to this
legend in the Order of the Red Cross.
Altar (Red Cross): The altar is referred to in the Red Cross Or
der; the reference is to the Altar of Freemasonry, which, tradition says,
was taken out of Jerusalem when the Temple was burned.
Amadeus V, Duke of Savoy: The ritual says that in "1415 the
Turks laid siege to Rhodes . . . and were repulsed" and that "Amadeus
V, Duke of Savoy, having rendered timely assistance to the besieged
Knights Hospitaler during the attack, the Grand Master .. . caused letters
to be added to the Banner of St. John." Just how .Amadeus V (1285
1323) could have been present at Rhodes in 1415 cannot be explained.
It must have been Amadeus VIII (13911451) who afterwards became
Pope Felix V.
Amen: An expression of approval, used at the end of a prayer or
devotion. It means certainly, surely, truly. When used at the end of a
sentence it is said to confirm all other things heretofore expressed.
Ancient and Honorable Institution: Words used by Darius in
his legendary discussion with Zerubbabel. He was referring to the
institution of Freemasonry. Actually Zerubbabel lived many centuries
before Freemasonry was established. The allusion is an attempt to
establish connection with the Masonic fraternity.
AngloBavaria or England: The location of this langue is not
exactly clear, but undoubtedly included Bavaria and England.
Animate: Means to give life to or to heighten the powers of
nature; to stimulate or to incite. When used as an adverb it means alive.
Annual Conclave: Grand Commanderies meet once a year in
what is termed "Annual Conclave," at which time they transact all
necessary business and elect officers for the succeeding year.
Annual Returns: Each commandery is required to make an
annual report to Grand Commandery; this report covers all new
members,. affiliations, reinstatements, suspensions, expulsions, dimits,
deaths, list of officers, and a complete financial statement of the
commandery affairs. This is known as the annual returns, and from it a
table is prepared by the Grand Recorder giving a complete picture of the
general condition of Templary in the State as of any one year.
Apartment: When used in Templar ritual it refers to a room; for
example, prelate's apartment; apartment of the commander, etc.
Apartment, Prelate: A room used by the Prelate in carrying out
the ritualistic duties assigned to him.
Apostles, The Twelve: A New Testament description of the
small number of men entrusted by Jesus Christ to disseminate his
teachings among mankind. Early in his ministry he decreed that twelve
of his disciples should be with him. These were the twelve apostles.
6c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
When Judas proved untrue, Matthias was selected his successor so that
the number twelve remained complete.
Aragon: The fifth of the leagues in which the Order of Malta was
divided. It was a region and ancient kingdom in northeastern Spain,
south of the Pyrenees. It was controlled by the Visigoths in the Fifth
Century; the Moors in the Eighth Century; united with Castile in 1479, it
merged with Spain in 1516.
Ascension: An event prominent in Christianity and referring to
the ascent of Christ into heaven as told in the Scriptures. It symbolizes
for the Christian the triumph of immortality over mortality.
Ascension Scene: Many commanderies show painted
representations of the Ascension of Christ, while other depict the
Ascension by illustrated slides.
Attention: The word is used as a word of command in
commanderies. The command is more than an order to give attention; it
requires that those addressed shall arise and remain standing.
Attributes (Templar): Qualities or characteristics essentially
necessary to the subject. Hence, the signs and words, together with
their explanation, are said to be attributes of the Order.
Audience Chamber: The room in which kings, potentates, and
others receive distinguished guests, or hold audience is termed an
Audience Chamber. This is the use of the word in the Order of Red
Cross.
Auvergne: Second of the langues into which the Order of Malta
was divided; located in the south central part of France. It was originally
settled by the Averni, from whence it derives its name; they were a Gallic
people led by Vercingetorix and were defeated by Caesar in 475 A.D. It
became a part of France in 1527.
Ayah Salaam Aleckam: A Maltese expression meaning "We
come in peace," said to have been employed by the Knights in replying
to an inquiry by the native Islanders as to whether the Knights were
coming in peace.
Babylon: An ancient city on the Euphrates River, located about
fiftyfive miles south of the City of Bagdad. It probably existed as early as
the Fourth Century B.C., but is now in ruins. It was the capital of the old
Babylonian Empire and the chief commercial city of the EuphratesTigris
valley. It attained its greatest glory under Nebuchadnezzar, was
captured by Cyrus and later by Alexander. Cyrus the Great is referred to
in the ritual of the Order of Red Cross as having freed the Jews from
bondage.
Bailiff: The fifth officer seated at the Table in the West in the
Priory of Knights of Malta; he has no ritualistic duties.
Baldric: A belt, sometimes richly ornamented, worn over one
shoulder and across the breast and under the opposite arm to support a
sword. It is part of the costume of a Red Cross or Temple Knight and as
such has a symbolic signification.
Banner Guards: In conferring the Orders of the Red Cross,
Malta,
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 7c
and Temple the various banners are sometimes carried by members,
who may, or may not be, garbed in appropriate uniform. In some of the
larger commanderies the Banner is borne by one member and with him
may be another member, similarly garbed, who serves as a Guard to the
Banner Bearer. Where there are many workers this serves to add
interest to the Order.
Banner of Malta: The Banner of the Order of Malta is a square
banner upon the center of which is a Maltese cross in white or silver; on
a shield in the center of the cross is a shield in red with the cross of St.
John upon it. Forming an arch above the Maltese Cross is written the
legend "Rex regum et dominus dominorum." This banner, with that of the
Banner of St. John, is placed in the East of the Asylum. The latter
represents the original Order of St. John; the former was the banner of
the Order after it occupied Malta; thus are the past and the present
linked together.
Banner of St. John: The banner of St. John symbolizes the
original organization of the Knights of St. John and is placed in the East
of every Malta asylum in memory of the ancient founders of the Order. It
is a red banner having upon it a Greek Cross of white with equal arms,
or limbs. In the center of the white cross is a figure of the Paschal
Lambs. In each of the four red squares, formed by the White Greek
Cross, are the initials "F.E.R.T." alluding to the Latin motto: "Fortitudo
eius Rhodum Tenuit" (His courage saved Rhodes). It refers to the Duke
of Savoy, Amadeus, whose valor and timely assistance preserved
Rhodes from the Turks.
Banners: Jewish; Persian; Malta; Red Cross; Grand Standard;
St. John; Grand Standard; Cyprus; Palestine; Rhodus; Candia; Malta;
Beauceant.
Battle Flag (Templar): "When going into battle the Templars
carried a battle flag at the head of their troops. It was a simple flag of
black and white and had a highly significant meaning to them. See
"Beauceant." Bearers: See "Banner Guards." Beauceant: The Templars
had a Grand Standard and a Battle Flag; the latter was known as the
Beauceant and was half white and half black; the black was the lower
part of the flag or banner, and these two colors had great significance
according to the Templars, for it signified that they were fair and
favorable to their friends, but dark and terrible to all the enemies of
Christ. Today it no longer bears the above import, but is borne as an
incentive to emulate the sacrifices and suffering of our ancient forbears
and as a tribute to their memory. The ritual spells the word beauceant,
but the 1934 Constitution of the Grand Encampment spells it beauseant,
and describes it to be silk, in two stripes of equal width running
horizontally, the upper stripe black and the lower white—six feet fly and
3 feet six inches on the staff, swallow tailed onethird its length; the
edges of the flag plain without fringe. The name of the
8c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
Commandery on the upper stripe and its location on the lower stripe,
lettering being in contra colors to the field. The staff is 9 feet, including
crosshead which is of gold metal, consisting of a ball surmounted by
Cross of Salem. Cords and tassels of black and white attached to base
of crosshead.
Belt: The belt is an indispensable part of the costume of a
Templar, for it is used to attach the sword and to carry its weight.
Benjamin: The least numerous of the tribes of Israel. It gave the
first King to the Jews—Saul, a Benjaminite. After the death of Solomon,
Benjaminites united with those of Judah in forming a new Kingdom.
Judah and Benjamin were the two leading tribes during the period
portrayed in the Red Cross Order.
Bible (Red Cross): There has been much discussion over the
use of the Bible in the Order of the Red Cross, especially those who
drag out the usual Bible with its New Testament section. At the time the
Order of Red Cross was said to have been founded there was no such
thing as the Bible or the New Testament. It is true the Bible is referred to
as "the sacred writings" of the Jewish people, but the average
commandery drags out the Holy Bible.
Biretta: A square cap with three or four projections above the
crown, extending from the center outward and usually with a tassel at
the center; it is worn by certain clerics; different colors denote different
ranks of the clergy.
Birth: A significant word in the Order of Malta which refers to the
Birth of Jesus Christ.
Blade: The blade of the sword is used to convey certain symbol
ism. In one place it represents the quality: Hope, Hope of Victory when
the sword is drawn in a just and virtuous cause. In another place it refers
to "Fortitude undaunted." Blessed Emmanuel: Also "Immanuel," and, in
the English translation, meaning "God with us." It is referred to in the
Book of Isaiah: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and
shall call his name Immanuel." Christians interpret the word to refer to
Christ.
Boundary Line: Landmarks. Boundary lines are those which
mark the boundary; usually these boundaries are natural boundaries,
such as rivers, lakes, mountain chains, seas, or deserts.
Bread, Use of: Knights of old, when leaving for the Holy Land
on a Crusade, prepared themselves spiritually for the journey by a
general confession and the reception of the Holy Eucharist, followed by
the benediction of the church. During the ceremony they received the
communion bread from the point of the sword and wine from the blade.
Bridge: Bridges often marked the boundary lines of a country; in
many cases these bridges were guarded by sentries. Buckler: A shield
carried to protect the front of the body; it is
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 9c
usually carried on one arm, while the other arm grasps the sword.
Burning Taper: A taper is a small wax candle or any small light.
A burning taper is said to serve symbolically as a shining light to others.
It also symbolizes life and activity.
ByLaws: A bylaw is a secondary or subordinate law; in
Ternplary, a Grand Commandery may have its bylaws, since it is sub
ordinate to the Grand Encampment; all commanderies have bylaws.
The bylaws are rules for the handling of local affairs.
Caiaphas: Caiaphas was the High Priest who rent his clothes
and declared Jesus to be deserving of the death penalty. Jesus was
taken before him after he had been betrayed by Judas. He was de
posed as High Priest, but we have no other record of him after that date.
Cambyses: The successor to Cyrus the Great. Cyrus had
favored the Jews and permitted them to proceed with the rebuilding of
their City and Temple, but when Cambyses came to the throne he
proved to be tyrannical and ordered the work of the rebuilding to cease.
This is the situation which confronted the Jews as brought out in the first
section of the Order of the Red Cross.
Candia: Candia is usually known by the name of Crete; the
Greeks called it Herakleion. The name Candia was given it by the
Venetians who occupied it in the Thirteenth Century. It is a Greek Island
in the eastern Mediterranean. In World War II it was in the news because
of the first successful use of airborne forces in a major campaign. It was
at Castro (Kastro) in the Island of Candia that the Order of Malta
occupied the Island; from here they went to Venice, Viturbo and other
Italian cities.
Cap, Fatigue: To prevent the necessity of wearing on all
occasions the uncomfortable chapeau used for display purposes, a
fatigue cap is prescribed for ordinary occasions and sometimes worn in
councils of the Red Cross Order.
Captain General: The Captain General of the Order of the
Temple holds a corresponding position in the Order of Malta; he is the
third officer of the Priory and is seated in the East. As the third officer of
a commandery of Knights Templar, he is elected annually. His duties are
largely military for he has charge of all formations. In the absence of the
Commander and the Generalissimo he assumes the duties of
Commander; a rather grandiloquent title for an underofficer?
Captain of Outposts: An officer of a priory of Knights of Malta;
his station and duties correspond, in general, to those of the Junior
Deacon of a Lodge.
Captive: One who is made prisoner and held under restraint.
Carry Swords: The ordinary manner of carrying the sword when it has
been withdrawn from its scabbard.
Castile: Seventh of the eight langues into which the Order of
10c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
Malta was divided. It was a region in the central and north central part of
Spain, and an ancient Kingdom. The marriage of Isabella of Castile to
Ferdinand of Aragon united the two Kingdoms in '1469.
Castro: Our ritual improperly spells the name of this Aegean
seaport; it should be spelled Kastron or Kastro. It is located on the west
coast of the Island of Lemnos and today has a population of almost four
thousand. It might be noted that the Island of Lemnos was taken by the
Greeks from the Turks in 1912 and was used as the base for the British
fleet in the Dardanelles campaign of World War I.
Ceremonial: A ceremonial usage or formality of religious
observance according to a system of rules or forms established by
custom, and according to a ritual.
Certificate of Good Standing: Many Grand Commanderies
authorize the Certificate of Good Standing when transferring member
ship from one commandery to another. This affords the petitioner
continuous membership. If a dimit was issued and the petitioner failed of
election, it would leave him without a Templar home.
Chaldees: The statement in the ritual that "Judah was made
desolate by the Chaldees" should no doubt read "by the Chaldeans."
Chaldea was the southern part of Babylonia and was occupied by the
Chaldeans as early as the 11th Century B. C. While ruled by
Nebuchadnezzar they subdued Judea and captured Jerusalem. The
Chaldean Empire fell when the Persians captured Babylon, 539 B.C.
Chamber: The room in which a portion of the Order of the Red
Cross is conferred.
Chamber of Reflection: A place wherein one may go to be
alone and to reflect without interruption.
Chancellor: The seventh officer seated at the Table in the West
in a Priory of Malta. He has no ritualistic duties.
Chapeau: The dictionary defines it as "a covering for the head."
In the plural form it is chapeaux. The Grand Encampment specifies the
hat worn by Templars as "a military chapeau," although it is similar in
design to the navy chapeau once worn by Admirals.
Chapel: The apartment in which the full ceremonial of the Order
of Malta is conferred is called the Chapel.
Chaplain: An officer of a Priory of Malta whose duties it is to
read the Sacred Scriptures and perform certain other ritualistic duties;
he corresponds to the Prelate in the Order of the Temple. His robe is
prescribed in the ritual of the Order; it is a modern, and not a middleage
conception.
Charity: Charity is taught in all degrees of Freemasonry; in the
Templar system it is encouraged in many ways. Charity and hospitality
are characteristic of the Christian orders.
Christian Religion: Candidates for the Order of the Temple are
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 11c
asked to express their belief in the virtues taught by the Christian
religion. Denominational beliefs are not a matter for discussion within the
asylums of the Knights Templar.
Clemency: Disposition to forgive; mildness of temper; leniency.
The two words refer to the clemency of Darius towards Zerubbabel.
Close: Constituent and subordinate commanderies close
instead of adjourn as the Grand Encampment and Grand Commandery
do; they may close to meet on a certain day to finish pending business.
Coat of Arms: In its original meaning a coatofarms was a
garment of light material worn over armor, and often bearing the insignia
or heraldic bearings of its owner. In this modern day it represents the
device.
Commander: The head of a commandery is known as the
Commander. When addressing him we call him Eminent Commander.
He is elected annually by vote of the members of the commandery and
his term of office begins with his installation, ending with the installation
of his successor. He is responsible for the proper conduct of the affairs
of his commandery, subject, of course, to the bylaws of the
commandery and the laws of the Grand Commandery.
Commanderies: There are two classes of commanderies:
Those under dispensation and those chartered. The first is a
commandery working on a temporary permit; the latter is a permanent
organization. The word commandery is used in connection with the
Knights Templar, much as the word lodge is used in the symbolic
degrees, and chapter in the capitular degrees.
Committees: It is impossible, in the brief time occupied by a
Grand Commandery Conclave, for the entire group to give full
consideration to all matters; hence, it is found necessary to carry on
much of the business through committees. Most Grand Commandcries
specify what these committees shall be and have committees on
Finance, Returns of Commanderies, Charters, Jurisprudence,
Credentials, Mileage and Per Diem, Appeals, Necrology. Then there are
special committees named for some particular purpose.
Communicate: The word means to share with another what is
properly regarded as one's own.
Companion Conductor: An officer of the commandery, working
in the Order of the Red Cross, whose duties are much the same as
those of a Senior Deacon in the Lodge. Actually he is the conductor of
the candidate, the title companion being prefixed. When the Order of the
Red Cross has been formed, the Companion Conductor becomes
known as the Master of Infantry. See "Master of Infantry."
Companions: Members of a commandery sitting in the body of
a commandery open on the Order of the Red Cross, refer to each other
as Companion. This reference or use of the word Companion comes
from the degree of Royal Arch Mason where all members are simi
12c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
larly referred to. The word Companion is generally regarded as being of
a closer relationship than brother or friend.
Conclave: Commanderies hold conclaves—not meetings.
Concurrent Jurisdiction: This is a policy which has worked
very satisfactorily in most jurisdictions. Where this law is in force it
permits one to petition any commandery within the jurisdiction. In some
instances it is forbidden one commandery to go into the city limits in
which another commandery is located.
Confines: The boundary lines or limits of a kingdom.
Conservator: The fourth officer seated at the Table in the West. He has
no ritualistic duties.
Constitution and Laws: A Constitution is the fundamental,
organic law of an organization. Only the higher, or parent groups, have
constitutions; other groups have bylaws and regulations.
Constitution, Laws and Edicts: The Grand Encampment is
governed by its own Constitution and ByLaws. Official pronouncements
are known as edicts.
Constitutional Number: Nine members constitute the minimum
number necessary for the formation of a commandery; a quorum.
Convene: Grand Commanderies and the Grand Encampment
do not open; they convene.
Council: The Order of the Red Cross is conferred in a body
known as a Council of the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross. It derives
its name from the fact that the Council which is convened for the
conferring of the first section of the Order represents the Grand Council
which convened in Jerusalem in the second year of the reign of Darius,
King of Persia, to deliberate upon the unhappy condition of the country
and to devise means whereby they might obtain the favor and protection
of the new sovereign in rebuilding the City of Jerusalem.
Countersign: See "Persian Countersign." Courage and
Constancy: Templars should possess the attributes of courage and
constancy which are the tests of an upright Knight.
Create and Constitute: The words are almost synonymous.
The first means to make, the latter to establish by lawful authority.
Cross: See "Passion Cross," "Malta Cross," "Templar Cross,"
"Salem," "Patriarchal." Cross of St. John: A passion cross, but inclined
from left to right and usually on a shield. Crucifix: A representation of
Christ on the Cross. Loose usage sometimes refers to the cross itself as
a crucifix.
Cup: All Templars will recognize the use of this word. A cup is a
vessel for holding liquids. Jesus is said to have partaken from the bitter
"cup of death" from which no one is exempt.
Cuts: A stroke with the edge of a sword, as distinguished from a
thrust.
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 13c
Cyprus, Banner of: In 1287 the Order of Malta established itself
on the Island of Cyprus, having been forced to evacuate Palestine;
settling in Limisso. The name Cyprus and the date 1287 commemorate
the second place of the Order's sojourning and the second epoch in
their history.
Cyrus: The first Persian conqueror of Babylon and the King who
issued the edict for the restoration of the Jews to their homeland. As the
first Gentile friend to the stricken people of Palestine, who restored
them to the land of their nativity, he will ever rank high in history. He was
truly Cyrus the Righteous.
Dais: An elevated platform, usually at the end of a hall or room to
give distinction or prominence to those who sit on it. In the East of every
commandery asylum should be a dais.
Darius: The King Darius referred to in the Order of the Red Cross
is Darius Hystaspis, who succeeded the usurper Smerdis and who
reigned for a period of thirtysix years. In the second year of his reign he
issued the decrees giving the Jews permission to proceed with the
rebuilding of their City and Temple.
Death: The imminence of death is brought to the attention of the
candidate in many Masonic degrees. The word is highly significant to
the Templar, referring to the death of Jesus. The word is used in the
Order of Malta.
Decree: An order from one having authority to decide what is or
what is not to be done. An edict.
Deity: The Supreme Being under whatever name he may be
called. The word is taken from the Latin Deus, meaning God.
Delta: The delta is a Greek character commonly used to
represent Deity. Its selection as the triangle for a commandery asylum
was not made without this thought in mind.
Detachment: A detachment is a small group taken from a
complete body; it might be a squad, a platoon, etc.
Devotions: A form of prayer or worship; feelings toward God ex
pressed by acts of worship.
Dimit: When a member desires to withdraw permanently from a
commandery he applies for a Dimit, which is a form duly signed showing
the former membership. Should he wish to join (or affiliate) with another
commandery, it is necessary that this Dimit accompany his petition for
affiliation.
Dispensation: When a new commandery is organized it operates
for a time by virtue of the authority given it by the Grand Cornmandery;
this authority is known as a Dispensation. When the Grand
Commandery meets, if it be satisfied with the granting of the
Dispensation and approves the work of the new commandery, it may
give permanent standing by issuing a charter. Chartered Commanderies
usually bear numbers.
Display: The word display is used in commands given to the
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Standard Bearer; it means to show, to bring to the front where it (the
banner) may be seen.
Divine Attribute: Qualities attributed to Deity; Truth is regarded
as a divine attribute.
Divinity: A thing divine or superhuman; the Bible comes within
this definition because it is generally accepted as the word of God.
Division: It becomes necessary at times to divide the uniformed
membership into two or even three sections for the various ceremonies.
These sections are known as divisions, and numbered accordingly.
Dominions: The estate or domain of a feudal lord or king; that
which is subject to sovereignty or control. Darius properly refers to his
Dominions.
Draw Swords: A command necessary to order the sword taken
from its scabbard.
Dubbed and Created: The word dub is taken from a word which
means to strike, and alludes to the custom of creating knights by striking
them a slight blow upon the shoulder with the sword. The word means to
invest with a new dignity or title; create has the meaning of constitute.
Dues: According to the bylaws of his commandery, each member
is required to pay an annual amount, referred to as dues. The amount is
usually sufficient for the carrying on of the average activities of a
commandery, including a per capita tax paid to the Grand Commandery.
Dues are also paid by the Grand Commandery to the Grand
Encampment on each member borne on the rolls as of December 31st
each year. The part paid to Grand Encampment, or to Grand
Commandery, is referred to as a per capita tax.
Duties, Rehearsal: In all openings of Masonic bodies there is a
section dealing with the duties of the various officers. There is no
exception to the rule in Templar bodies. Here it is referred to as a
rehearsal of duties.
Edict: Public notice issued by an official authority. The
proclamation of a law or rule of conduct made by competent authority.
Election: The election of officers is provided by law. The first
three officers of a commandery, the treasurer and the recorder are
required to be elected by ballot; other stations may, if provided in the by
laws, be appointed. A similar regulation occurs in Grand Commanderies,
and in the Grand Encampment.
Eligibility: Any member of a commandery is eligible to hold any
office to which his associates may elect him.
Emblem of Faith: The symbolism of light requires no explanation
for Freemasons. A burning taper is always an emblem of light, and while
the flame may be small, yet it signifies that faith which hopes for an
ultimate coming into the greater light.
Emblem of Innocence: All through Masonic degrees white is re
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 15c
garded as the color denoting innocence. In the lodge it is the white
apron; in the chapter it is the white veil; in the commandery it is the white
robe.
Emmanuel: See "Blessed Emmanuel." Enmity and Ill Will:
Enmity and ill will do not become those who are accepted into Templar
asylums. A brotherhood cannot be a true brotherhood where such exist.
Equivocation: The word denotes the use of expressions
susceptible of double significance, and especially with a desire to
mislead.
Esdras: Reference is made in the Order of the Red Cross to the
Books of Esdras. These books do not appear in the everyday Bible; they
are the 1st, 2d, 3d and 4th Books of Ezra, called, in the English version,
the Books of Esdras. They are the Apocryphal Books. The Books
contain the story which furnished the background to the Red Cross
Order.
Eute Glict Al Glict: The Malta inquiry "Do you come in peace?"
asked of the Knights of Malta when they occupied the Island of Malta.
Excellent High Priest: A character in the first section of the
Red Cross; as such he is shown presiding over a representation of the
old Jewish Grand Council. It would seem much out of place for Jewish
characters to be introduced into a Christian Order, yet it should be
known that the Order of the Red Cross has no connection with the Order
of the Temple, and the degree would properly be placed in the degrees
of the Capitular, or Chapter, system.
F. E. R. T.: The initials of the Latin motto Fortitudo eius Rhodes
tenuit." The words appear on the Banner of St. John. See "Fortitudo
Eius Rhodes Tenuit." Faith: A Divine virtue by which we accept and
firmly believe in the truths which God has revealed. Red Cross Knights
are taught, by the hilt of the sword, to have Faith in God. The initial "D"
on the Red Cross Banner symbolizes this Faith.
Faith and Humility: Faith and humility are essential to those
who seek Christian Knighthood. To be humble and to have Faith are
rare virtues.
False Accusations: Human beings are subject to many faults;
but there is nothing worse than to accuse another falsely. To make such
accusations is contrary to the lesson taught in the Red Cross Order —
Truth.
Fear Not: The expression is derived from the story of St. Paul
on the Island of Malta.
Fees: Money collected for the conferring of the Orders is called
fees, the amount varying in different commanderies because of the
difference in expenses necessary to carry on activities; the minimum fee
for the Orders is usually $30.00, but this does not include the uniform.
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Fetters: Chains or shackles for the feet.
First Among Equals: All men are supposed to be equal, and
yet there are some who rise above their equals in certain traits and
ability. Zerubbabel is said to have been such a character and to have
been respected because of these traits.
Flag: The flag of the United States of America is a part of the
necessary paraphernalia of every Templar asylum working under the
ritual of the Grand Encampment. The closing feature of the conferring of
the Order of Knighthood is a tribute to the Flag. This tribute is a modern
innovation and entirely out of place in those cornmanderies which exist
in countries not a part of the United States of America.
Force and Power: The words are synonymous; both are
desirable, but may be misused as was the case when the Jewish people
were stopped from building the Second Temple.
Fortitudo Eius Rhodum Tenuit: The Latin for the expression
"His courage saved Rhodes." It was a tribute to Amadeus, Duke of
Savoy, who led the gallant defense of the Island of Rhodes.
Forty Mile: Templars are urged to go any reasonable distance
to aid a distressed brother; it is the general opinion that forty miles is the
maximum distance to comply with the term reasonable.
Founders of Ancient Craft Masonry: The traditional Founders
of Ancient Craft Masonry are Solomon, Hiram of Tyre, and a third Hiram
of the Tribe of Naphtali. Due tribute is paid these founders in the Order
of the Temple.
France: The third of the langues into which the Order of Malta
was divided. France was the Ancient Gaul and at one time a Province of
the Roman Empire.
Galley: An ancient seagoing vessel propelled by oars, although
often having a mast and sail.
Garb of Slavery: It waS the custom of Asiatic conquerors to
array the captives in a garb of slavery, which probably consisted of a
cheap rough garment. To show final degradation, these captives wore
fetters or chains.
Gauntlets: A glove of such material that it defends the hand
from wounds; it was sometimes made of leather and even chain mail,
later developing into articulated steel plates.
Generalissimo: The second officer of a commandery; he
succeeds to the duties of the Commander in the event of the
Commander's absence or inability to serve; he also acts as the
Lieutenant Commander in the Order of Malta and the Prince Chancellor
in the Red Cross. His ritualistic duties are few. His title, like that of the
Captain General, is more than ample.
Germany: The sixth of the langues into which the Order of
Malta was divided. It was never a part of the Old Roman Empire, but
was known as Germania and inhabited by the Teutonic peoples.
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 17c
Gethsemane: An enclosure or garden, situated on the Mount of
Olives, just outside Jerusalem; it is said to have been the scene of the
last few hours of the life of Jesus and where he was arrested.
Girded: To provide or equip, especially with a sword of
knighthood.
Golgotha: The Hebrew word for Calvary; the place outside the
ancient city of Jerusalem where Christ was crucified. The traditional site
is now within the walls of the modern city and is occupied by the Church
of the Holy Sepulcher; the actual site is uncertain. Because of its
barrenness and rounded shape it was often referred to as "the place of a
skull."
Goraw: An abbreviation for "Grand Omnific Royal Arch Word." The use
of the words are questionable in view of the fact that many bodies of
Royal Arch Masonry do not use this expression.
Grand Characteristics: The Grand Characteristics of the Order
of Red Cross are set forth as Truth, Justice and Liberty.
Grand Commander: The executive head of a Grand
Commandery of Knights Templar. He serves one year and is rarely re
elected, in line with the democratic policy of York Rite Masonry. He has
certain powers set forth in the Constitution and ByLaws of the Grand
Commandery.
Grand Commandery: An organization made up of
representatives from various commanderies who make the laws for the
government of those bodies which operate within the State. Under
Grand Commandery law those who are a part of the Grand
Commandery are the Commanders, Generalissimos, Captain Generals,
Past Commanders, or certain proxies. A Grand Commandery usually
meets in annual conclave for the transaction of necessary business, and
is presided over by a Grand Commander who serves for a term of one
year.
Grand Council: The first section of the Order of the Red Cross
is conferred in a body which represents the Grand Council of Jews
convened at Jerusalem in the days of Darius to deliberate upon the
unhappy condition of the country. The Grand Council concerns itself
with means of obtaining the favor and protection of the new sovereign
who promises to be favorable to the plans of the Jews to rebuild their
Temple under the direction of Prince Zerubbabel.
Grand Encampment: The governing body of Templary in the
United States of America, its territories and dependencies. It meets
triennially in various parts of the United States and is presided over by a
Grand Master whose term is for three years. It is made up of Past Grand
Commanders and the first four officers of each Grand Commandery.
Grand Commanderies, as such, have no authority in the Grand
Encampment structure. It is supported by funds raised in the form of a
per capita and hospitality tax which has been growing, until today it
amounts to a levy of 15/c on each member of the Order.
Grand Hailing Sign: A hailing sign is a sign with which one is
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accosted, usually to discover whether friend or foe. Such is the case of
the Malta hailing sign.
Grand Omnific Royal Arch Word: See "Goraw." Grand
Recorder: The Grand Recorder serves as the secretarial officer of the
Grand Commandery and keeps their records, has them printed annually
and mails them out to all those interested. His duties are much the same
as those of the recorder of a commandery.
Grand Sign: Templary has its Grand Word, Grand Sign, Grand
Standard, etc. In each instance it refers to the principal sign, word, etc.
Grand Standard: The Grand Standard of the Order of the
Temple is white in color. In the center of the standard is a blood red
Passion Cross. Over the cross are the words "In Hoc Signo Vinces,"
which is the motto of the Templar, meaning "By virtue of this Sign you
shall conquer." Under the Cross is the motto: "Non Nobis, Domine, Non
Nobis; Scd Nomini Tuo da Gloriam," meaning "Not unto us, Oh Lord, not
unto us, but unto thy name give glory." Each commandery once carried a
Grand Standard in parades; likewise the Grand Commandery and the
Grand Encampment had their grand standards, sometimes very
elaborate and expensive.
The Grand Encampment prescribes the Grand Standard to be of
white woolen or silk material 5 feet by 3 feet, tripartite at the bottom;
fastened to top by nine rings; in the center a bloodred Passion Cross,
over which is the motto "I.H.S.V." and under "N.N.D.N.N.T.D.G." The
cross to be 3 feet in height and the upright bar 6 inches in width. On top
of the staff a gilded ball 4 inches in diameter, surmounted by the Cross
of Salem, 12 inches in height, the Cross to be crimson edged with gold.
Grand Token: A token is a signal or sign; it is something given
to or shown as a symbol of guarantee of authority or right. A Grand
Token would be the principal sign.
Grand Treasurer: The Grand Treasurer looks after the financial
records of the Grand Commandery, much after the manner the treasurer
of a conunandery looks after the finances and records of a
cornmandery. Financial officers are usually bonded and make annual re
ports. Most Grand Commanderies and Commanderies have auditing
committees.
Grand Word of Mediterranean Pass: It is not known as to
when this Word was instituted as the Word of the Mediterranean Pass,
but it is thought to have been established after the Knights occupied the
Island of Melita, later called Malta.
Great Captain of Our Salvation: An appellation given to Jesus,
"he being the bright and Morning Star whose rising brought health and
salvation to mankind." This is religious nomenclature raised to the nth
power and compares with the reference to the Great Architect of the
Universe in the lodge degrees.
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 19c
Greek Cross: The Greek Cross is a cross of equal arms and
angles; it appears on the Banner of St. John.
Green: Green symbolizes immortality; hence eternal friendship
referred to as "immortal green." Guard: The Guard in the Order of Malta
corresponds to that of the Sentinel in the Order of the Temple. He is the
same as the Tiler in the Lodge; His ritualistic duties are few.
Guard Room: A room in which the ceremonial of the
Mediterranean Pass takes place; it is simply furnished.
Guards: Sentries; Protectors. Both Jewish and Persian Guards
are referred to in the Order of the Red Cross.
In the Order of the Temple there are three ritual officers, known
as Guards, whose duties are very essential in carrying out the
Symbolism of the Order.
Halt: The military expression for stop. It is used in commanderies
to execute a halt of either individual or group.
Hermits: Pilgrims on their way to the Holy Land were quite
frequently compelled to seek succor from pious anchorites, or hermits,
along the route to Palestine. While these hermits lived in very humble
abodes, they were willing to share bread and water, which was all they
had to offer. These hermits are represented in the Order of the Temple.
Highest Spire in Christendom: It is not known as to what spire
was the highest in Christendom during the period of the Crusades, at
which time the phrase originated. At any rate, it must have been well
known, and of such outstanding height as to make an impression on
those who viewed it.
Hilt: The hilt of the Templar sword is endowed with the quality of
Justice impartial according to the ritual, although it is hard to imagine
any other sort of Justice. To the Red Cross Knight the hilt refers to Faith
—Faith in God.
Hiram of Naphtali: One of the traditional founders of
Freemasonry whose name is closely associated with that of King
Solomon.
Hiram of Tyre: One of the traditional founders of Freemasonry;
there is no logical reason for bringing his name into the Order of the
Temple except to establish a socalled connection with Ancient Craft
Masonry.
Holy Eucharist: The Eucharist refers to the sacrament of the
Lord's Supper; it is the solemn act of commemorating the death of Christ
in the use of bread and wine as the appointed emblems.
Holy Evangelists: During the conferring of the ceremonies of
the Order of the Temple extracts are read from the Holy Evangelists; this
reference is to a class of Christian teachers who propagated the gospel
of the New Testament; these readings are largely from the Book of
Matthew. In the Order of Malta readings are taken from the Acts of the
Apostles and the Gospel of St. John.
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Holy Sepulcher: A sepulcher is a burial place; the Holy
Sepulcher refers to the burial place of the Saviour and is quite
prominently referred to throughout Templar ritual.
Holy Sign: The Cross is the Holy Sign. The Knight was told to
protect the cross upon his breast at all hazards.
Holy Vessels: Such vessels are those used in the Temple of
Solomon, which were taken away when the Temple was burned; the
story is that these Holy Vessels, with the exception of the Ark of the
Covenant, were returned to Jerusalem by order of Darius.
Honor: That which rightfully deserves esteem or respect.
Hope: The blade of a sword of a Companion of the Red Cross is
endowed with Hope, Hope of Victory.
Hospitaler: The second of the officers stationed at the Table in
the West. He has no ritualistic duties.
House of the Lord God: The Temple of Solomon was truly the
House of the Lord, for in it was contained all those Holy Vessels used in
his worship, together with the Ark of the Covenant where God was said
to dwell.
Human Hand and Serpent: A reminder of the incident of St.
Paul and the viper on the Island of Malta.
Hut, Humble: There is nothing more humble than the hut; yet in
a hut may be found sincerity and service.
I. N. R. I.: The initials of the Latin words, Iesus Nazarenus Rex I
u
dacorum (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews), being the letters set
up over the cross on which Christ was crucified.
Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum: The I.N.R.I. set up on the
cross upon which Jesus was crucified. It is the Latin words for Jesus of
Nazareth, King of the Jews.
Illustrious: Characterized by greatness or nobleness;
distinguished, noted, famous. The title is used as a prefix in the Red
Cross Order.
Immaculate Word: The word immaculate signifies without stain
or blemish; we should therefore expect such a word to be the name of
one whose life was without stain or blemish—and such it is.
Immanauel: See "Emmanuel." Immemorial Discussion: The
words refer to the discussion as related in the Books of Esdras, where
the strength of Wine, the Power of the King, or the influence of Women
was the greatest. The word immemorial means "whence the memory of
man runneth not back." It is referred to in the Red Cross Order.
Immortal Green: Green is the color of most living things; while
trees, shrubs, grass and the like may turn brown in the fall and wither,
yet when spring comes again they assume their greenish hue; not
having died, they are assumed to be immortal—hence immortal green.
The sash of a Knight of the Red Cross is green, the color symbolizing
Truth.
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Immortality of Soul: The Templar follows the Christian doctrine
requiring belief in the immortality of the soul.
Incorporation: Most Grand Commanderies forbid
commanderies to incorporate. An incorporation makes a legal entity of
the body incorporated enabling them to sue and be sued.
Inculcate: To teach and impress by frequent repetition or ad
monition; to instill into the mind.
Indispensable Number: Three is said to be the Indispensable
Number, because, according to the ritual requirements, three are
absolutely necessary to form and open a commandery; there is an
additional restriction—that the three must come from three separate
commanderies and must act under a lawful warrant.
Infidelitas: The Latin word for unbelief. The Divine Teacher
said "Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed."
Infidels: All men who did not agree with the Christian doctrines were
regarded as infidels. The word is derived from the Latin word infidelitas,
which means infidelity, unfaithfulness, unbelief.
In Hoc Signo Vinces: The Latin words for "In this sign you shall
conquer." The Grand Motto of the Templar Order and the Battle Cry of
the Christian Warrior. The sign has to do with the Passion Cross and the
Crucifixion.
Injustice: Failure to render justice is injustice; unfairness.
Ternplars are taught never to draw their swords in the cause of Injustice,
it being below the dignity of a member of the Order.
Innocent Maidens: The care of the innocent and charity for the
orphan and widow are cardinal tenets of the Templar Order.
Insignia: Distinguishing marks of authority office or honor;
typical marks or signs by which anything may be distinguished. In a
commandery it may be the shoulder straps of an office, a chevron, a
baldric, or the like.
Insignia of Rank: An emblem prescribed by the Grand
Encampment to denote the rank of the officer or member wearing it.
Installation: When an officer is elected or appointed to official
station he does not immediately take over his work; it is necessary that
there be an official record made and by an official authorized to
supervise the change in officers. This is called the installation, and
certain forms are required to be carried out.
Instituted: Darius uses the word instituted in connection with his
founding the Red Cross Order; it means to establish, or to set up as an
institution.
Investiture: The investing of a candidate with certain words,
signs, or jewel, is called an investiture.
Inviolate, to Preserve: To preserve inviolate means to keep
without revelation that which one is in honor bound to hold secret; to
keep without violating any of the terms under which a thing may be held.
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The fourth of the langues into which the Order of Malta was divided. The
location of the headquarters of the Malta Knights at Venice and other
Italian cities is the sole reason for mention in the Malta ritual .
Jewel of Office: An emblem prescribed to be worn by an officer
or to designate the office held by him. It is worn only during his
incumbency in office .
Jewish Banner: A banner used in the Red Cross Order to
denote Jewish territory. The usual banner used in commanderies has
four quarterings in which appear the emblems of Judah, Ephraim,
Reuben and Dan. It may not be historically accurate, but few there be to
question it .
Jews, Liberation of: The liberation of the Jews constitutes a
theme which appears and reappears in Masonic ritual; reference to the
liberation is contained in the Order of the Red Cross .
Journey: Most rituals require a symbolic journey on the part of
the candidate. Templary is no exception as the rituals of the Red Cross
and Order of the Temple will show .
Junior Warden: The duties of a conductor of candidates is
shared by two officers, the Senior and Junior Wardens. In the Order of
the Red Cross, the Junior Warden becomes the Companion Conductor
and later the Master of Infantry .
Justice: Fairness. Justice is one of the grand characteristics of
the Order of Red Cross, together with Truth and Liberty; there is no
such thing as Justice without Truth. Justice cannot be dispensed except
by those who are free .
Healing: Refers to reobligating a Knight Templar and correcting
whatever had been amiss at the time of his creation as a member .
House of Judah: All members of the Royal family descended
from Princes or Rulers of Judah .
Jehovah: The JHVH, or Jahveh, of the Jews; the name by
which God is said to have made himself known under his covenant with
the Jewish people. Synonym of God .
Jerusalem: A city of Palestine, situated on two rocky hills, thirty
five miles from the Mediterranean and thirteen miles west of the north
end of the Dead Sea. It was the Holy City, not only of the Jews, but of
the Christians and Moslems. It is referred to as the "City of David," the
"Holy City," "City of the Great King," and occasionally as "Zion," Zion
being the hill on which was erected the Holy Temple, hence the
synonym for Jerusalem. The scene of Christ's crucifixion .
Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews: Jesus is quite frequently
spoken of as "Jesus of Nazareth" to distinguish him from other men of
the same name; Nazareth refers to the place of his birth and was the
home of Joseph and Mary during his childhood; it was captured several
times during the Crusades; its Christian inhabitants were
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 23c
murdered in 1263. The authorities in Jerusalem, in an attempt to ridicule
Jesus, set up over his head, at the time of the crucifixion, a placard
reading "Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudaeorum," meaning "This is Jesus of
Nazareth, King of the Jews."
Jewish Guards: History tells us that guards were stationed at
certain strategic points throughout the Kingdom of Judah and Benjamin,
and that they were charged with halting all who attempted to pass
without permission .
Jewish Pass: This is the Pass required of those who traversed
the Jewish dominions of Judah and Benjamin. Most military passes are
given with cuts of the sword .
Judah: Ancient Kingdom in southern Palestine between the
Mediterranean and the Dead Sea. It was the southern kingdom of the
Jews when the northern part broke away in 933 B.C. The kingdom came
to an end with destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 B.C.
See "Benjamin." Judas Iscariot: The disciple of Jesus who proved
unfaithful, creating a vacancy among the twelve disciples. This event is
brought to the attention of a Templar candidate in a very striking way,
especially the selection of Judas' successor. An extinguished taper on
the triangle is symbolic of the vacancy created among the apostles by
the unfaithfulness of Judas .
Jurisdiction: The jurisdiction of a Grand Commandery is the
territorial limits of the State in which it exists. See "Concurrent
Jurisdiction." King of Kings and Lord of Lords: The equivalent of the
Latin words "Rex Regum et Dominus Dominorum." This is the wording
which appears on the Banner of Malta, and refers to Jesus of Nazareth
who was the King of Kings and Lord above all other Lords .
King of Persia: There are two Kings of Persia referred to in
Commandery ritual: Cyrus and his successor Darius. Both Kings proved
friendly and favorable to the work of the Jews in rebuilding their national
shrine—Solomon's Temple .
Kings, Power of: Esdras, the Biblical historian, tells us of a
discussion which occurred among the Princes of one of the Royal
households, wherein there existed differences of opinion as to what was
the greatest, the power of the King, the strength of wine, or the influence
of woman. Woman was decided to be the greatest of these three .
Knight: A mounted manatarms serving a king or other superior,
commonly in return for land; he was often of noble birth; he was dubbed
and created by his superior King or lord with certain ceremonies. See
"Sir Knight." Knights of Malta: An Order founded in 1118 and known as
the Knight Hospitaler; it was a rival of the Knights Templar. Its life ended
with the capitulation of Malta in 1798. Mackey says of the
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Order "How anything so anomalous in history as commingling in a body
of Knights Templar and Knight of Malta, and making the same person a
representative of both orders, first arose, it is difficult to determine."
Knight of the Mediterranean Pass: This is termed a "degree," officially
the "Degree of Knight of St. Paul or the Mediterranean Pass" and
regarded as a Pass degree to the Order of Malta .
Knight of St. Paul: See "Knight of the Mediterranean Pass."
Knights Templar: A rival of the Knights of Malta; it was founded in 1118
during the Crusades; its history ceased with the death of DeMolay who
was elected Grand Master in 1297 and who was burned at the stake by
Order of King and Pope .
Ladder: In many Masonic degrees we have, as a symbol, the
ladder. In Templary, the ladder has certain symbolic meaning, especially
to events connected with the life of Jesus .
Langue: The Order of Malta was divided, for military purposes,
into langues—not languages as stated by the ritual. It is true that a
langue was composed largely of people who spoke the same language,
but it was a military division and not one of language or race. There
were eight langues: Provence, Auvergne, France, Italy, Germany,
Aragon, Castile, AngloBavariaEngland. The eight officers at the Table
in the West are the Marshal, Hospitaler, Admiral, Conservator, Bailiff,
Turcopolier, Chancellor and Treasurer. These eight officers represent
the eight langues into which the Order was divided during the 18th
century .
Last Trump: Reference is occasionally made to the "sound of
the last trump," alluding to the day of Resurrection when, according to
Biblical legend, a trumpet shall blow, summoning all, both dead and
living, to appear in final judgment .
Latin Cross: The Latin.,Cross, known as the Passion Cross, is
used in the Order of Malta and the Order of the Temple, where its
meaning is fully understood. See "Passion Cross." Lawful Warrant: A
warrant is a written authority, usually to form a commandery of Knights
Templar. A lawful warrant would be one which complied strictly with the
regulations and laws of Templary .
Laws and Regulations: In founding the Red Cross Order,
Darius is said to have set forth certain Laws and Regulations which all
members of the Order were required to assent to through a solemn vow .
Lessons: Much of the ritual of the Templar and Malta Orders is
taken from the New Testament; it is not at all surprising to note that
throughout the ritualistic work, the Prelate is asked to read aloud certain
Lessons as taken from the Holy Evangelists .
Libation, Fifth: The last and most important of the vows made in
the Templar Order.
Libations: The giving of toasts, or tributes, to the Founders of
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 25c
Templary, or to those who have been active in its history, is a custom
among Templars. These toasts are referred to as libations .
Libertas: The Latin word for Liberty, which is one of the out
standing characteristics of the Red Cross Order.
Liberty: One of the great characteristics of the Red Cross
Order, coupled with Trust and Justice. Its Latin equivalent is Libertas .
Lieutenant Commander: The title given the second officer in a
Priory of the Order of Malta; he is the Generalissimo when working in
the Order of the Temple, or Prince Chancellor in the Order of the Red
Cross.
Life: A significant word in the Order of Malta, dealing with the
Life of the Saviour .
Life Membership: There is much antagonism to the granting of
life membership unless sold for an amount sufficient to maintain the
membership through a natural lifetime. Many commanderies have been
financially ruined by the life membership feature, and many times the
poor member has to carry the burden of those more able to pay .
Limisso: An ancient seaport on the Island of Cyprus. See
"Cyprus." Lines: Whenever a Templar body prepares for certain of its
ceremonials, or whenever it prepares for military movement, it is said
"the lines are to be formed," a necessary procedure before carrying out
any movement .
L'Isle Adam: Grand Master of the Malta Order at the time Malta
was occupied as headquarters of the Order .
Magna Est Veritas Et Praevalebit: Latin words for "Great is
Truth and it shall prevail," very properly taken as the motto for the
Banner of the Red Cross Order, the principal teaching of which is the
almighty force and importance of that virtue .
Magnanimous Order: Magnanimous is that which exhibits the
nobleness of soul. Templars are charged with being magnanimous, or
great in mind; the Order teaches justice, equity and tolerance, therefore
it may be regarded as magnanimous .
MaherShalalHashBaz: This is a name, said to be the longest
in the Scriptures. Translated literally, it means "He hasteth to the spoil,"
and is the name Isaiah was to give a son which was to be born to him.
Just why the name should be singled out for Templar ritual is
unexplainable, except for the fact that it deals with the spoils of war and
is a term easily connected with warriors .
Malta: An island in the Central Mediterranean, about fiftyeight
miles south of the Island of Sicily; it is the largest of a group of islands
known as the Maltese Islands, which constitute a British Colony. Its
harbor of Valetta has been known through the centuries as one of the
strongest naval bases in the world. The ancient name of the Island was
Melita. It underwent more than twelve hundred air
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raids during World War II, but was never taken away from the Allies. On
March 24, 1530, the Island was ceded, by Emperor Charles V, to the
Knights of St. John on condition that they would defend it and repress
the ravages of the Moorish rovers who, at the time, infested the southern
Mediterranean ports. From this gift the Order acquired the new name of
Knights of Malta. There is a legend connected with the arrival of the
Knights of this Island which has become a striking part of the ritual. The
Island proved to be the last and final stronghold of the Order and the
ancient name of the Island is still commemorated in the ritual of the
Order.
Malta, Cross of: The eightpointed cross is the Maltese Cross. It
appears as the central figure of the cover of the Table in the West. It
designates the uniform of the Knight of Malta; it appears on the Malta
Jewel. The eight points symbolize the eight beatitudes; it also represents
the eight langues into which the Order was divided.
Malta, Jewel of: Every member is entitled to wear the jewel of
the Order of Malta; it is the eight pointed cross, or Cross of Malta. The
eight points refer to the eight beatitudes.
Malta, Order of: The second Order in the Templar system,
following the Order of the Red Cross and immediately preceding the
Order of the Temple. The Grand Encampment prescribes a short form
ceremonial for this Order which is most generally used.
Maltese Cross: See "Malta, Jewel of." Mantle: A mantle is a
loose sleeveless garment worn over other clothing; a cloak. The mantle
is worn by officers of the Order of Malta.
Marshal: A high officer charged with the arrangement of
ceremonies; an officer of highest rank in armies. An officer of the Order
of Malta or Order of the Temple.
Mary Magdalene: An important witness to the last hours of the
Saviour and to his resurrection.
Master of Cavalry: The Senior Warden of the commandery be
comes the Master of Cavalry in conferring the Order of Red Cross. (Do
not pronounce it Calvary.) Master of Dispatches: The Recorder carries
the title of Master of Dispatches in the Order of the Red Cross, and as
such has a small ritualistic part.
Master of Infantry: The Junior Warden of the Commandery is
known as the Companion Conductor, or Master of Infantry, when
working in the Order of the Red Cross; he is actually the conductor of
candidates through certain sections of the work. See "Companion
Conductor." Master of Finance: The treasurer of a commandery bears
the title of Master of Finance in the Order of the Red Cross; he has no
speaking part in the degree, but is assigned a duty which requires him to
become a floor officer.
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 27c
Mediterranean Pass: See "Knight of the Mediterranean Pass."
Melita: The ancient name of the Island of Malta. See "Malta."
Member: One who has received the Chivalric Orders and who is
in good standing in his commandery is said to be a member. If he has
taken a withdrawal card, or dimit, he is a dimitted member. If he has not
paid his dues, and has been suspended by his Comiiiandery, he is said
to be a suspended member. If he comes from another Commandery, he
is said to be an affiliated member. There „ no distinction between an
affiliated member and any other member. While officers of a
Commandery are necessary, the support of the loyal member is even
more necessary for the support of a Commandery.
Membership: When one has been affiliated as a member, or
when he has received the Order of the Temple, he is said to have
membership.
Mental Reservation: A withholding, or failing to disclose some
thing that affects a statement, promise, etc., and which, if disclosed,
would materially change its import.
Messina: Our Malta ritual refers to Messina, which was a
Province of Ancient Italy. Inasmuch as the name occurs along with the
names of several other Italian cities, it is evident the name should have
been Messana or Messene, which are Italian cities in Messina Province.
Minister, to: To attend at the altar; contributing to the welfare; in
a Commandery the prelate ministers at the altar, thereby contributing to
the religious atmosphere of the occasion.
Moors (Moorish): Arabs who lived in the Northern Sudan; they
were known as terrible thieves and raiders without conscience.
Mortality, Emblem of: Anything reminding one of Death is an
emblem of mortality. A skull, or a skeleton, is regarded as such. Those
who receive the Order of the Temple are brought face to face with the
imminence of death.
Mortality of Body: All Templars are taught that the body is
mortal and that only the soul is immortal.
Most Excellent Grand Master: A title given to King Solomon,
who was the first traditional Grand Master of Freemasons.
Music: Music is highly regarded by commanderies, yet the
difficulty of securing musicians and proper music will always be a
problem; this has been relieved in recent years by the use of victrolas
and amplifiers. The ritual specifies certain music for use in the Order of
Malta, but the instruction ceases there.
New Testament: The section of the Bible dealing with the New
Covenant and the teachings of Jesus, hence its use in commanderies of
Knights Templar. The term New Testament has been in use since the
third century.
Nine: The ByLaws of a Grand Commandery require the
presence
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of nine members of the commandery in order to constitute a quorum for
the dispatch of business.
Nomenclature: The honorary title of the Grand Commander is
"Right Eminent," and his official title is "Grand Commander"; the
honorary title of the Deputy Grand Commander is "Very Eminent," and
his official title is "Deputy Grand Commander"; the honorary title of the
remaining Grand Officers, Past and Present Commanders is "Eminent."
NonAffiliation: One who is voluntarily nonaffiliated has no
Templar rights, except the right to petition for affiliation.
Non Nobis, Domine, Non Nobis, Sed Nomini, Tuo Da
Gloriam: Translated this means "Not unto us, Oh Lord, not unto us, but
to thy name give glory." It is the motto of the Templar Order and appears
on the Grand Standard.
Notice: A notice is required by law to be written.
Number: There are certain legal requirements fixing the number
of Templars necessary for legally proceeding with their work. See
"Constitutional Number," "Indispensable number."
Objection: Before a candidate is admitted into any of the
Templar Orders, inquiry is made as to whether there is any objection. An
objection made up to that moment is sufficient to stop the conferring of
the Order.
Open: Commanderies open; Grand Encampment and Grand
Cornmanderies convene.
Oppression: Templars are taught never to wield their swords in
the cause of oppression. The word oppression means unjust or cruel
exercise of authority or power.
Order of Malta: See "Malta, Order of."
Order of the Red Cross: The first of the Orders conferred in
asylums of Knights Templar. It deals with an interesting period of Jewish
history and serves to connect the Royal Arch degree with the Templar
system.
Order of Temple: See "Temple, Order of."
Palestine: Palestine was the ancient Canaan; it is located in
southwestern Asia, bordering the Mediterranean; to the north is
Lebanon; eastward is Syria; southwestward is Egypt; the Capital is
Jerusalem. It is the Holy Land of all Christian peoples. The chief river is
the Jordan. When it was not being invaded by the Chaldees, the
Babylonians, the Assyrians and the Persians, it was being attacked from
the southwest by its hereditary enemy, Egypt. The Order of Malta was
established in Palestine in 1099 through the association of a number of
pious Knights with the members of St. John's Hospital, an establishment
existing at that time for the relief of pilgrims who had come to Jerusalem
to worship at the Holy Sepulcher. The name commemorates the country
of the Saviour's nativity, the place where
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 29c
the Order was founded and the first epoch in its history. The Knights
were compelled to evacuate Palestine and, in 1287, went to Cyprus.
See "Cyprus."
Pall: A pall is a heavy black cloth thrown over a coffin, tomb or
hearse; hence, it is a covering which conceals something.
Paschal Lamb: The word "paschal" refers to anything
connected with the Passover. The Paschal Lamb is the lamb slain and
eaten during the period of the Passover; hence, Christ, referred to as
Agnes Dei, the Lamb of God.
Pass: As a rule a pass refers to more than one word as
distinguished from a password. Again, many passes are given with cut of
the sword. A pass is usually given by one who is en route, especially on
a symbolic journey.
Passion Cross: The Passion Cross is the Latin Cross upon
which the Saviour was crucified; the reference is, of course, to the
passion of the Saviour on the cross. See "Latin Cross."
Passports: Passports are written evidence of authority to travel
from one place to another. These are still essential in this modern age.
Past Rank: One who has filled, by installation and service, the
station of Grand Commander, Deputy Grand Commander, Grand
Generalissimo, or Grand Captain General retains the title of the highest
office attained by him and is permitted to add the word "Past"
immediately preceding the official title. One who has filled, by installation
and service, the station of Commander becomes a Past Commander.
The commander of a commandery under dispensation does not become
a Past Commander when the commandery is chartered.
Patience and Perseverance: The pilgrimage of life is truly a
trial of one's patience and perseverance.
Patriarchal Cross: It was borne before the Patriarch of the
Roman Church, whence its name. It is formed by two horizontal bars
crossing an upright bar, the top bar being shorter than the lower. It is
worn by officers of the Grand Encampment.
Peace, Come in: The inhabitants of the Island of Malta viewed
with alarm the approach of the Knights of St. John to their Island. On
finding the Knights coming not for warfare, they spoke to them in their
native language, inviting them to come in peace and due hospitality
would be extended them.
Peculiar Mark: The green sash presented to a candidate in the
Red Cross Order is said to denote the peculiar mark of esteem of the
giver. It is peculiar in that it constituted no actual monetary value and as
a gift there was, at the time, a question as to its worth.
Penalty (of Vow): Templary exacts no penalties from its novitiates; all its
obligations, pledges or vows are taken freely and
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voluntarily and failure to keep them is a matter for the individual
conscience. The only penalties in the Order are suspension, expulsion
or reprimand.
Penance: Penance is necessary for all mortal men, for few there
are who live a life without having committed some misdeed. Penance is
a trial of our faith and humility.
Permanent Member: Only Past Grand Commanders are
regarded as permanent members of the Grand Encampment. Past
Commanders are permanent members of a Grand Commandery.
Persia: An ancient Kingdom, known today as Iran. The Persian
Empire under Cyrus the Great extended from India to the Mediterranean.
It was organized by Darius I, at which time began the Persian Wars. It
was officially named Iran in 1935. See Darius, "King of Persia." Persian
Banner: A banner used to designate the boundary line of the Persian
Dominions. It is usually green in color and bears emblems of sun, moon,
stars, etc. It, like the Jewish Banner, may not be entirely accurate
historically, but is only a symbol.
Persian Countersign: Used in a military sense as a secret
signal, word, or phrase, communicated to sentries or guards, which must
be given by one before being permitted to pass. Persian countersign
would be one required by the Persian guards.
Persian Guards: Officers in the Order of the Red Cross, whose
duty it was to protect their country from entrance by intruders or those
not carrying the necessary passports.
Peter: An apostle of Jesus, who, because of his dignity, success
in propagation of the Gospel, and part taken in the Master's affairs, was
made the outstanding apostle, particularly by the Catholic Church, which
makes the claim of superiority of Peter over the other apostles (without
authority).
Petition: Application for membership in a Commandery is by
petition, whether it be by affiliation or for the Orders. Prescribed forms
are supplied by the recorder of each Commandery for those desiring to
petition.
Petitioner: One who petitions for membership or for the Orders
is said to be a petitioner.
Philip the Fair: As a tool of Pope Clement V he assisted in the
persecution of the Templars through the Inquisition, resulting in the
martyrdom of Jacques de Molay.
Pilate: Pontius Pilate was the sixth Roman Procurator of Judea,
serving under the Roman Emperor Tiberius. Jesus was brought before
him for trial because the Romans ruled Palestine at that time. Pilate had
no desire to engage in the internal disputes of the Hebrew people.
Pilgrimage: A symbolical journey or pilgrimage is part of the
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 31c
initiatory ceremonies of most fraternal societies. Templary too has its
pilgrimage.
Pilgrim Garb: The pilgrims of old were known because of their
garb which consisted of rough material, sandals, staff, scrip, and a
pilgrim's hat which was often adorned with a shell.
Pilgrim Penitent: Penance is necessary for those who would
learn the lessons of faith and humility; after learning the lessons of
patience, perseverance, courage and constancy, the lessons of faith
and humility complete man's struggle for immortality.
Pilgrim Penitent Word: Legend tells us that those who traveled
to the Holy Land were invested with a word by which they might be
distinguished upon their arrival at the Holy Places of Palestine. Their
journey often ended at Golgotha, scene of the crucifixion, which,
because of its rounded barren shape, is yet known as the place of a
skull.
Pilgrim Warrior: We are all pilgrim warriors, symbolically war
ring with the lying deceits and vanities of this earthly existence. Those
valiant knights of medieval days were pilgrims and warriors, for such
they had to be in order to gain the Holy Land.
Pledge: There is a slight difference between the use of the
terms obligation, pledge and vow, as found in the various Masonic
degrees. The word "pledge" is the more simple of the three.
Point: The word is used in connection with the sword, where
reference is made to the point. The point of the sword is said to be
endowed with Charity for a fallen foe; in other places it is to Mercy
unrestrained.
Pope Clement V.: It was he who conspired with Philip the Fair,
of France, to extinguish the Templars through what was termed the
Inquisition, a period of history not at all to the credit of the Church or
State.
Post Sentinel: The command to "post the sentinel" is to
ascertain whether he who is acting as the sentinel is properly placed
and at his post.
Prayer: The Templar Order teaches the value of prayer; many
of the prayers are ritualistic, for the reason that very few members are
qualified to offer public prayer. After all the value of a prayer is
dependent upon the spirit behind those who offer the prayer.
Preceding Degrees: Reference is made in the ritual to
"preceding degrees." As now interpreted, it refers to the degree of Royal
Arch Mason and the symbolic degrees. It once included the degree of
Past Master, but Pennsylvania took that degree from the Capitular
system, whereupon the Grand Encampment changed its ritual.
Prelate: An officer of a commandery who carried on the duty of
a chaplain. In ecclesiastical circles he is regarded as a high church
officer.
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Preparation Room: The anteroom in which a candidate is
prepared for the ceremonies of Knighthood.
Present Swords: Swords are drawn and a salute is given by
bringing the hilt to a point just in front of the eyes, retaining that position
until some other command is given. The command "present" is usually
for the purpose of saluting.
Prince Chancellor: A secretary, and especially a nobleman,
who acted as a secretary to the King; sometimes the principal minister of
State. The second officer in the drama of the Red Cross Order.
Prince Master of the Palace: Officers of the Persian Court
were usually princes of the royal blood. One of the chief of the princes
was usually assigned the duty of serving as Master of the Palace,
supervising the affairs of the Royal household. He is the third officer in
the Red Cross Order.
Prince of Peace: Because of Christ's doctrine of Love, which is
the foundation of all peaceful movements, he is called the Prince of
Peace.
Prior: The superior of a Priory; an ecclesiastic of high rank. The
chief officer in a Priory of the Order of Malta.
Priory: When a Commandery is assembled for the purpose of
conferring the Order of Malta, they are said to form a Priory, which was
the old name for the organization conferring this Order. In England and
Scotland, to this day, the Templars are formed into a Supreme Priory
and the name Commandery is unknown. Even Canada has its Supreme
Great Priory.
Procession: The ceremonial procession of the Order of Malta is
an outstanding feature of the Order. Officers of the Priory, in full Malta
costume, enter and leave the hall in a full ceremonial which adds to the
beauty of the Order.
Proclaim: To proclaim is to announce; to make known.
Protection: The Standard Bearer of a Commandery is charged with the
protection of the banner of the Order.
Provence (pronounced pro vans): First of the eight langues into
which the Order of Malta was divided. It was a section in southeastern
France, bordering on the Mediterranean.
Provinces: See "Langues."
Proxy: Certain officers, who have votes in Grand Encampment, or
in a Grand Commandery are authorized to name one to act in their
place; such an authority is termed a "proxy." Question and Answers: All
candidates for the Orders of Knighthood are required to answer certain
questions in writing, the questions having to do with their religious belief
and practice.
Quorum: The quorum for a conclave of the Grand Commandery
consists of nine members entitled to vote therein, including an officer
authorized to convene the same; three commanderies must
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 33c
be represented. Grand Encampment law requires a constituent or
subordinate commandery to have at least three Knights Templar, hailing
from three separate commanderies, or at least nine Templars residing in
the jurisdiction, before a commandery can be formed or opened, but
when only three Templars there must be a lawful warrant from the
Grand Master or from the Grand Encampment. The usual quorum
required by Grand Commanderies for a commandery, is nine Knights
Templar, all of whom must be members of the same Commandery.
Readings: Whenever the word "reading" is employed in Templar
ritual, it refers to readings from the New Testament.
Realm: A realm is a kingdom or territory; it is usually descriptive
of a country ruled by a King, for the word has in it the connotation of
royalty.
Reballot: Under certain regulations a reballot may be taken on a
petition for affiliation or for the Orders. Authority to do so is hedged
about with certain necessary requirements.
Reception: At the opening of a commandery, the members are
lined up in certain form awaiting the arrival and reception of the
Commander and his escort.
Recognition, Means of: When Darius established the Red
Cross Order, he ordained that certain signs and words should become
the means of recognition among its members.
Recorder: An officer of a commandery charged with the
responsibility of making and preserving the records of the commandery.
The successful commandery is quite often a success by reason of the
activity and service of a competent recorder. The duties of a recorder
are set forth in the bylaws of the commandery and by laws of the Grand
Commandery under which it works.
Records of Our Fathers: To the Jews, the record of the fathers
is the Old Testament. To the Christian, the New Testament is so
considered.
Recover: When the chapeau or hat is removed on command
"uncover," it is replaced at the command "recover." Red Cross, Banner
of: It is of green color, green being the color usually assigned to Truth
which is the specific virtue exemplified in the Order. There is a Star of
seven points on this green field, and within is a Red Cross of equal arms
and angles; around it is the motto "Magna est Veritas, et praevalebit."
On each of the four arms of the Cross are letters D.T.J.L., referring to
the grand characteristics of the Order. See "Magna est Veritas, et
Praevalebit."
Red Cross, Order of: The first of the Orders conferred in a
Commandery of Knights Templar. The Order has a Jewish and Persian
background, which is seemingly out of place in a Christian Order.
Regularly and Duly Constituted: No commandery may be fully
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authorized to carry on its activities until it has been regularly and duly
constituted—that is according to the forms and ceremonies laid down by
the parent body.
Rejection: One who petitions for affiliation or for the Orders,
and who is not elected is said to be rejected; the act of doing so is
termed a rejection.
Relics: A word used to describe all that is left of this earthly
body after the spirit has gone forth, a process which we call death. The
Catholic Church employs relics as a part of the furniture of every church,
a bone or a skull being required under every altar.
Response: A response is a reply to a challenge, or it is the
response to the pass.
Representative Members: Those who by virtue of their rank
as Grand Commander, Deputy Grand Commander, Grand
Generalissimo, Grand Captain General, or their authorized proxies, are
entitled to seats in the Grand Encampment, are referred to as
representative members.
Restoration: When a member dropped from the rolls for any
reason whatsoever applies for reinstatement to his former status, and is
elected, it is called a restoration (to good standing) or a reinstatement.
Resurrection: The word refers to the Biblical story of the
resurrection of the Saviour after his crucifixion. It is unnecessary to go
into detail concerning this for it is the basis of Christian teaching.
Return Swords: When the swords are drawn, they are returned
to their scabbards by the command "return swords." Revenue: The
recorder is charged with the responsibility of collecting all amounts due
the commandery, referred to in ritual as "collecting the revenue." Rex
Regum et Dominus Dominorum: The Latin for "King of Kings and Lord of
Lords;" used as the motto on the Banner of Malta.
Rhodes, Banner of: The banner commemorates the stay of the
Knights on the Island of that name. It was an island in the Aegean Sea
off the southwest coast of Turkey in Asia; it is a part of the Dodecanese
group. It was returned to the Greeks in 1945. The chief city is named
Rhodes and it has two fine harbors built mostly by the Knights of St.
John of Jerusalem (also Rhodes); its mediaeval appearance and
fortifications have been little altered. It was captured by the Knights of
St. John in 1310, held against the Turks, and finally evacuated in 1522,
after a heavy siege by the Saracens under Solyman II; few stones were
left of the old fortification and such was their valor they were permitted to
withdraw unmolested. This was the third place of the sojourning of the
Knights of Malta.
Ritual: The ritual is the foundation upon which a fraternal
society is erected. Templary has its ritual, written largely in cipher. It has
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 35c
been much changed over the years, but it still retains evidences of what
our ancient forbears might have employed in their ceremonies. Robes:
The only robes used in Templary are those employed in conferring the
Order of the Red Cross, where Jewish and Persian robes are worn by
the participants. The robes of a Royal Arch Chapter usually supply these
robes and we are not unaccustomed to behold Persian robes in a
Jewish council chamber.
Royal Household: The Royal Household comprised all those
who assisted the King in carrying on the general duties required in a
Palace. It included all the Princes, the Chancellor, the Master of the
Palace and other dignitaries.
Royal Prince: See "Zerubbabel." Royal Robe: Those who enter
a Royal Court are required to be properly costumed. Those upon whom
the King may bestow princely honors are entitled to be clothed
accordingly.
Rulers: The Royal Court of Darius of Persia was made up of
Princes of the Royal family and Rulers of his Provinces.
Rules and Regulations: When Darius established the Order of
the Red Cross he is said, traditionally, to have established certain Rules
and Regulations for the government of the new order.
St. John, Ancient Order of: The Order was founded in 1099 in
Jerusalem for the relief of pilgrims coming to Jerusalem; a hospital was
established at this time; the organization had a troublous career and
gradually retreated to Cyprus, Rhodes, Candia, and finally to Malta.
After this last settlement, the Order assumed the name of Knights of
Malta. There is in existence at this time a Catholic Order of the Knights
of Malta. There is also a Protestant Order by the same name.
St. John the Baptist: His parents were Zacharias and
Elisabeth, the latter being a cousin of Mary the mother of Jesus. As an
apostle he called upon the Jewish people to repent, warning them of the
destruction which might follow if they did not do so. He was beheaded
at the order of Herod.
St. John's Hospital: A Hospital of the St. John's Order still
exists in the Holy City and is supported by the Supreme Great Priory of
England.
St. Paul: A native of Tarsus, of Jewish descent but with Roman
citizenship because of his father. He was one of the twelve disciples.
Sacred Mystery: The converting of water into wine is referred
to as the Sacred Mystery.
Sacred Writings: Generally regarded as the writings of the Old
Testament. The term is used by Darius and refers to the sacred writings
of the Jewish people of that day whatever they might have been.
Salem, Cross of: Sometimes called the "Pontifical Cross" and
borne before the Pope. It is formed by three horizontal bars cross
36c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
ing an upright, the top and lower bar being shorter than the middle bar. It
is worn by the Grand Master and Past Grand Masters of the Grand
Encampment.
Sandals: In the days before modern shoes were manufactured,
and in hot countries, the use of the sandal was current.
Saracens: A name given by the Christians to their arch enemies
of the Moslem faith.
Sash: The green sash is used in the Red Cross Order. See
"Green." Scabbard: The receptacle for the sword. A Templar is urged to
let his sword remain in its scabbard until consumed by rust rather than
draw it in the cause of injustice, falsehood or oppression.
Scrip: A small bag; the name is applied to the small bag carried
by pilgrims on their way to the Holy Land.
Scripture: All Masonic degrees contain excerpts from the
Scripures. Freemasons rarely refer to the Holy Writings as Scriptures,
but to the Holy Bible, Book of the Sacred Law, or, as our English friends
say, the Volume of the Sacred Law (VSL). which includes any of the
Holy Books of any faith.
Second Temple: The Second Temple at Jerusalem is referred
to in the Order of the Red Cross. It was built after Cyrus had liberated
the Jews in 536 B.C. He ordered all the Holy Vessels returned which
had been taken out of the First Temple. Hindrances were placed in the
way and it was not completed until 520 B.C. It was on the site of the first
Temple, but many were moved to tears when they beheld it for it was not
so impressive as the First. And again, it lacked the Ark of the Covenant.
Secret Evasion: Evasion is the act of avoiding; a subterfuge.
Those who take the obligations of Templary are bound to practice no
secret evasion of their pledges or promises.
Senior Warden: The ritualistic work of the Temple is assigned
to various officers; the two wardens are entrusted with duties similar to
those of a Senior Deacon in a lodge, but in commanderies the work is
divided between the Senior and Junior Wardens. Both are officers of a
commandery.
Sentinel: One who watches or guards; a soldier placed to guard
an army against surprise and to give notice of danger; also applied to a
sentry. An officer of the Red Cross and Order of Temple.
Sepulcher: A grave, tomb, or burial vault. In Templary the
sepulcher is the place wherein was interred the remains of the Saviour.
Shetharboznai: One of the Governors of the Persian Kingdom,
resident in Syria, who, with Tatnai, came to Jerusalem under orders to
investigate the charges made against the Jews. The name means
"shining star." Short Ceremonial: The Grand Encampment ritual provides
for a short form ceremonial for conferring the Order of Malta. Signs, Due:
Each of the Orders conferred in a Commandery has
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 37c
its signs and words, used only for the purpose of providing membership
in the Order. The word due has reference to lawful, regular or legal.
Sign, Grips and Words: Templary has its sign, grips and
words, which, of necessity, may not be revealed here.
Simon of Cyrene: The only thing to distinguish this Simon was
the fact that he was a bystander during the travel of Jesus along the Via
Doloroso, and was forced to bear the Master's Cross. Templars hold him
in high esteem and commemorate his service in a distinctive ceremony.
Sir Knight: A grandiloquent title for which there appears no
authority. The word Sir is a title prefixed to the Christian name of a
Knight, as Sir John Jones. A Knight is a Sir when created a Knight so
that the use of two forms, similar in meaning, to show Knighthood is
without historical authority. However, it appears as such in the rituals
and laws of the Grand Encampment and as such must be used until
legally changed.
Skull, Cloven: One of the emblems of the Malta Order is the
human skull, split in twain with a scimitar or sword; it is a grim allusion to
the judgment which befell traitors in mediaeval days.
Slave: Captives were generally regarded as slaves. There are
many instances in which captives received excellent treatment,
depending much upon the character of the ruler in whose country they
were captive. Darius was well known for his treatment of captives,
hence, we find Zerubbabel admitted into his presence as a captive and a
slave.
Sojourner: One eligible to petition for the Orders of Knighthood
who presents his petition to a commandery which has no territorial
jurisdiction over the petitioner.
Solomon: An ancient Jewish King; the traditional founder of
Freemasonry.
Solyman II: Emperor of the Turks at the time the Island of
Rhodes was besieged by Turkish forces. He was successful in taking
the island after a memorable defense by the Knights; appreciating the
gallant manner in which they had defended the island, he permitted them
to depart without molestation.
Sovereign Great Priory: Some of our foreign brethren refer to
their parent organization as Sovereign Great Priory, a name not known
in this county, where the parent organization is either a Grand
Encampment or a Grand Commandery.
Sovereign Lord: A reference by Zerubbabel to Darius, King of
Persia. As Darius had conquered Judea, he was the "Sovereign Lord"
over the Jewish people.
Sovereign Master: The principal character in the Order of the
Red Cross; he is Darius, King of Persia.
Special Conclave: A Grand Commandery may be called into
ses
38c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
sion at, other than the time of the annual conclave; when such is done, it
is referred to as a special conclave. When commanderies meet on a
date other than that set forth in their bylaws, the meeting is referred to
as a special conclave.
Spur, The: Every candidate is symbolically invested with the
Spur; the spur is worn by those who ride horses, the sharp prongs of
which act as a goad to urge the horse on. Likewise it is supposed to
goad the individual Knight on to more active duty.
Square and Compasses: These are "the symbols of your
ancient craft" referred to in the Order of the Red Cross. They are
primarily the symbols of Freemasonry and are so used in the Red Cross
Order; their use must be regarded as legendary and traditional.
Staff: Pilgrims are said to have carried the staff, a long pole,
sometimes forked, and which was often serviceable to those who went
on long journeys.
Star: See "Maltese Cross." Standard Bearer: An officer
designated to carry the official standard of the Order. An officer of a
commandery.
Stated Conclave: Commanderies usually set out in their by
laws the time of their regular meetings; these are called stated
conclaves because the time is stated. When held on dates not set forth,
they are referred to as special conclaves.
Stations: To each officer, irrespective of rank, is assigned a
place or station. These stations are variously located in and out of the
asylum, depending upon the requirements of the office.
Statutes, Rules and Regulations: Statutes are something laid
down or declared fixed by a conference between interested parties; an
agreement. The Order of Malta has its Statutes, Rules and Regulations.
Stole: A stole is a vestment worn around the neck and over the
shoulders by bishops and priests. It is prescribed as a part of the official
uniform of the Chaplain in the Order of Malta and is made of white satin
or similar material, lined in white; it is made in a single piece and with a
circular collar fastened behind; edged in white gold lace with fringe
across the bottom; it has three black Maltese crosses on the front.
Summons: A warning or citation to appear at some spot or
place at a designated time. Members of a commandery are under
obligation to respond to all summons sent out by lawful authority.
Sunday: Conclaves are forbidden to be held on the Sabbath
Day; commanderies may assemble for worship or for funeral purposes.
Suspension: When one has violated rules laid down for the
government of a commandery, he may be tried and, if found guilty, may
be suspended or expelled according to the gravity of the offense. When
suspended the act is called suspension. There are certain ways in which
the suspension may be removed and this is called restoration.
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 39c
Failure to pay annual dues is a minor offense and may result in sus
pension, but ordinarily payment within a certain period restores to former
standing.
Sword Bearer: A trusted military lieutenant, who, in ancient
times, carried his master's sword. An officer in a commandery. Sword,
Naked: A sword without a scabbard.
Sword, Templar: There is little difference between the Templar
Sword and other swords, except that the hilt of the Templar Sword is
often formed in the shape of a cross in allusion to the Passion Cross on
which Jesus was crucified.
Sword, Wield: The sword is worn by members of the Red Cross
Order and the Order of the Temple. Templars are urged to wield, or use,
their swords only when need be, and then in behalf of worthy causes.
Swords, Draw: Officers engaged in carrying out their ritualistic
activities usually have their swords drawn, especially in executing some
command. When in line, the swords are withdrawn on the command
"draw swords," the movement being executed at the second command.
Suitable Array: Before any of the Orders are conferred it is
necessary that the asylum or hall be in readiness for the work, or for the
reception of the officers. The expression "in suitable array" is used in
directing the proper arrangement of the asylum.
Syracuse: One of the Italian cities occupied by the Knights of
Malta previous to their occupation of Malta.
Table in the East: In the Malta Order there is located a Table in
the East, at which are situated five of the principal officers of the Priory.
The table is arranged in the form of the upper part of the Latin Cross.
Table in the West: At the Table in the West are situated the
representatives of the eight langues into which the Malta Order was
divided. On the Table is a large Maltese Cross with certain emblems
arranged in the four quarterings of the circle, superimposed upon the
Cross. These emblems have certain significance in connection with the
history of the Order and are explained to the candidates in the lecture.
Tactics: In general, the word tactics specifies all those
instructions necessary for the carrying out of floor movements by
Templar or Red Cross bodies. The tactics are usually published in book
form and distributed among those who make up the list of officers and
drill teams.
Taper, Extinguished: An extinguished taper (candle, or small
light) represents inactivity or death. The extinguished taper in the
Templar asylum represents one of the apostles whose activity came to
an end with his betrayal of the Saviour.
Tapers, Twelve: A taper usually represents a person or thing.
40c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
When burning it symbolically represents activity and life; when
extinguished it represents inactivity or death; the twelve tapers referred
to in the Order of the Temple are representative of the twelve apostles.
When one taper is extinguished, it represents the unfaithful apostle,
Judas.
Tatnai: The Persian meaning of the name is "gift." He was a
Persian Governor who ruled over Samaria. With Shetharboznai, another
Persian Governor, he went to investigate charges against the Jews.
They served under Darius, and his report to King Darius is said to be a
model of accuracy and judgment.
Templar Cross: The Templar Cross is defined by the Grand
Encampment as a Cross Patee with straight lines. The Cross Patee is
defined as having arms narrow at the center and expanding gradually
toward the ends.
Temple, Order of: The last of the three degrees, or Orders,
conferred in a commandery of Knights Templar.
Tent, Warrior: The ancient Crusaders were warriors and lived in
tents while on their various Crusades. It is not at all surprising to find
representation of these tents in the Order of the Temple.
Throne: A throne is symbolic of royalty, because he who
constitutionally heads a monarchy is seated upon the throne when he
gives forth orders and receives distinguished personages. Darius,
principal character in the Red Cross Order is traditionally seated upon a
throne placed in the East of the Asylum.
Title: The title of a Grand Commandery is expressed by the
words "The Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of the State of .
. . . . . " That of the Grand Encampment is "The Grand Encampment
of Knights Templar of the United States of America." See
"Nomenclature."
Traversing: A synonym for traveling or journeying.
Treasurer: The financial officer of a commandery.
Treasury: The nomenclature of the Templar Order refers to the
"treasury" and not to the treasurer.
Triangle: There is no explanation as to the use of a triangle in
the Templar Order, except the possibility that it may have originated from
the triangle which was a Delta, and which in Masonic symbolism was
always representative of Deity. It constitutes the principal piece of
paraphernalia in a Templar asylum, corresponding to the altar in the
symbolic lodge.
Trumpet: The trumpet is one of the most ancient of musical
instruments. The Templars preserve the name of trumpet and employ
the instrument in summoning members to assemble.
Truth: The Order of the Red Cross is founded upon Truth,
which is declared to be a Divine Attribute and the foundation of every
virtue.
Turbans: Peoples of the East wore as headgear a roll of cloth,
1951] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 41c
sometimes several yards in length, which were wound round the head
and tucked under, forming protection from the heat of the sun. These
were later developed into fixed rolls, known as turbans, and they are in
use to this day.
Turcopolier: Actually, a turcopolier was a light armed infantry
man; the name is taken from the Greek, meaning son of a Turk, but
altered to mean an officer of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, and an
exofficio commander of a cavalry unit. An officer at the table in the west
in the Order of Malta.
Unbelief: Unbelief is quite the opposite of belief; in the Templar
orders it has the sense of agnosticism, or doubt.
Uncover: To uncover the head is, at least in modern custom, a
method of showing respect. Templars uncover (remove their chapeau)
when lessons are read from the Holy Scriptures, and also under certain
other cases set forth by the tactics.
Uniform: The full dress uniform of a Templar proved to be
unsatisfactory except for ceremonial use, hence the adoption of a more
comfortable dress. The Order of the Temple is conferred by officers and
members garbed in Full Templar costume. Much difference of opinion
exists as to what constitutes the full dress uniform; those anxious to
know more about this phase of Templary may well consult their bylaws
defining not that of the ancient day Templar, but a modern innovation.
There are three types of uniform: The fatigue, the full dress, and the
Malta. Again, there are the robes necessary to confer the ritual section
of the Red Cross Order.
Universal Benevolence: One of the things devoutly hoped for
and the ultimate goal of the Templar.
Venice: A place of sojourn of the Knights of Malta; it is known in
Italy as Venezia. It is a city in the northeastern part of Italy, being located
on 118 islands in the Lagoon of Venice. Venice emerged from the Fourth
Crusade (120204) as the ruler of a colonial empire which included
Crete, the Ionian, and several other islands and countries of the
Mediterranean.
Veritas: Latin word for Truth, which is the principal teaching of
the Red Cross Order.
Vested: The ByLaws of the Grand Commandery vests certain
authority in the officers of a commandery, one of which is to create
Knights of the Templar Order. When a Commander dubs the new Knight
he refers to the power "in him vested." Villa Franca: An Italian city in
which the Knights of Malta sojourned for a brief period. Actually, its
name is Villa Franca di Verona. It is in the northeastern part of Italy, ten
miles southwest of Verona.
Villaret: Guilleume de Villaret was Grand Master of the Order of
St. John of Jerusalem in 1296; he came to the head of the organization
when its affairs were at low ebb, securing from the Pope and
42c FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE [May,
from kings and princes many valuable contributions of land and money;
he effected a drastic reorganization in the period 130004.
Viper: A venomous snake is usually referred to as a viper.
Visitation: In general, the holder of a commandery receipt for
current dues is sufficient documentary evidence to secure admission to
a commandery as a visitor. However, the right of visitation is not an
inherent right and the commandery is not bound to receive visitors.
Viturbo: Our ritual refers to this Italian city as Viturbo; actually it
is Viterbo. It is the Capital of Viterbo Province and its ancient name was
Vicus Elbii. It was the place of sojourn for the Knights of Malta before
taking over the Island of Malta.
Vow: A vow is a solemn promise; it is an act whereby one
consecrates himself wholeheartedly to some act of service; a pledge of
constancy or fidelity. It is used throughout the Templar Order in lieu of
the word obligation.
Warder: One who wards off; a keeper of a gate; an officer in the
commandery who keeps watch over all who enter the asylum. An officer
of the Council of the Red Cross.
Warfare: With the lying deceits and vanities of the world, life is a
continual warfare. This warfare is symbolized by the journey of the
candidate through the Templar Order.
Warrant: The word is synonymous with the word "authority." Our
ritual specifies that commanderies must "act under a lawful warrant,"
meaning that they are irregular when acting without some evidence of
where they acquired their right to exist. See "Lawful Warrant." Widows
and Orphans: Templars regard themselves as special protectors of the
widow and orphan, especially when they are destitute and alone.
Wine: Wine is prominently mentioned throughout the Bible, and
there appear to be many kinds and varieties, according to the method of
manufacture. As we find wine used in certain ceremonial observances of
the church, so do we find a similar custom in some of the Masonic
bodies. Commanderies which use grape juice will find no cause for
criticism.
Women, Supereminency: The Book of Esdras tells of the
discussion which took place in the Royal Court as to whether Wine, the
Power of Kings or Women was the greater. It is said that while the
supereminency of Woman was above that of Kingly power or effect of
wine, yet he who had proposed the discussion had overlooked the
importance of Truth.
Words: Templar Orders lay much stress upon the
communication of certain words. An examination of these words will
show no supernatural power by reason of possession of them. Most of
them are identified with certain phases of the ritual and are used solely
for the purposes of identification.
1951 ] GRAND COMMANDERY, K. T., OF MISSOURI 43c
Work: An expression used to define the ritual or the manner of
conferring the Templar Orders.
Zerubbabel: One of the great historical characters in Free
masonry; the outstanding character in the Order of the Red Cross. He
was a Royal Prince of the House of Judah, son of Shealtiel, and leader
of the first group of Jews permitted to return to Jerusalem, carrying with
them certain of the Holy Vessels. He was hindered in his work by the
Samaritans and appealed to Darius for assistance, which was readily
granted.
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