What was the motto of the Knights Templar?
The motto of the Knights Templar was "Non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed Nomini tuo da gloriam", which directly translates from Latin to English as "Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to Thy name give the glory".
This powerful phrase served as a cornerstone of the Knights Templar's philosophy, reflecting their profound humility and unwavering devotion. It emphasized that all their accomplishments, strength, and glory were attributed solely to God, rather than to themselves or their order. This spiritual dedication was central to their mission as a monastic military order.
The Guiding Principle of the Knights Templar
The Knights Templar, formally known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon (Pauperes commilitones Christi Templique Salomonici Hierosolymitanis), were one of the most significant and influential military orders of the Middle Ages. Active from 1119 until their suppression in 1312, their motto was a constant reminder of their commitment to selfless service.
Significance of the Motto
The motto, derived from Psalm 115:1 of the Latin Vulgate Bible, encapsulated several core tenets of the Templar ethos:
- Humility: It countered pride and self-aggrandizement, ensuring that their valiant efforts and successes were seen as divine blessings, not personal achievements.
- Spiritual Focus: It underscored their primary allegiance to God and their religious vows, aligning their military actions with their spiritual objectives.
- Collective Purpose: By emphasizing "Not to us," it fostered a strong sense of community and shared purpose, where every member's actions contributed to the greater glory of their divine mission.
This motto served as a constant ethical and spiritual guide, influencing their conduct on the battlefield and in their daily lives, as they strove to embody the ideals of Christian knighthood.
Overview of the Knights Templar
To provide further context to their motto, here is a summary of key details regarding the Knights Templar:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon |
| Latin Name | Pauperes commilitones Christi Templique Salomonici Hierosolymitanis |
| Period of Activity | 1119 – 1312 |
| Primary Motto | Non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed Nomini tuo da gloriam |
| English Translation | Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to Thy name give the glory |
