Hierarchy of the Knights Templar

The Knights Templar was one of the most active monastic orders in the Middle Ages. From a group of nine knights in Jerusalem to a famous order with dozens of thousands of members. However, as in the case of most religious organizations, the Knights Templar had a particular hierarchy, which means not all members had the same ranking. These are some of the most mentioned offices in historical findings.

The Grand Master: This position was permanent. The Grand Master is in charge of everyone else. The only way out of this office is dying or retiring with the Papacy's permission, which is less common.

The Master: is the local commander in each commandery, which is a small stronghold.

The Seneschal or the Grand Commander: is the right hand of the Master. He administers the lands that belong to the local temple. He is also in charge of war matters such as feeding and moving the armies.

The Turcopolier: is the person in charge of the Sergeants and the lights cavalry.

The Marshal: is the person in command of the arms and the horses. The Master consults him before making any decisions.

The Under-Marshal: is in charge of the other war equipment. He is also the person who held the banner of the Templars in war.

The Standard Bearer: or the Confanonier is the person in charge of the Squires, the young men who assisted the Knights. In battels, he marched before the banner.

The Knight: The knight is the backbone of the order, hence the name The Knights Templar. It's a highly valued office. To become a Knight, your father and grandfather must have been Knights too.

We can also find other offices when studying the Knight Templars' history, such as the Sergeant, the Squires, and the Treasurer, all of which had different responsibilities and duties.

 

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