The Knights Templar were a medieval Christian military order that was founded in the 12th century. The order was known for its religious piety and its role in the Crusades, but it was also known for its wealth and power. In 1307, King Philip IV of France, who was deeply in debt to the order, ordered the arrest of all Templars in France on charges of heresy. This event marked the end of the order and the persecution of many of its members.
Freemasonry, on the other hand, is a fraternity that emphasizes moral values and personal development. It has its roots in the guilds of stonemasons and it has some similarities with Knights Templar such as the use of common symbolic motifs, but there is no direct evidence of a connection between the two organizations. However, there are some theories and speculations that suggest a possible connection between the two.
For example, some Masonic rituals and symbols may have similarities with those used by the Knights Templar, and some Masonic organizations have incorporated the history and symbolism of the Knights Templar into their rituals as an appendant body. The degree of Knight Templar is an appendant body of Freemasonry and it is recognized by some Grand Lodges, but it is not considered to be a fundamental part of Freemasonry.
It is important to note that Freemasonry is not a religion, and it is not based on any one specific historical tradition or organization. It is a fraternity that is open to men of all religious beliefs, and its teachings are intended to promote moral values and personal development. Some of the values that the Knights Templar stood for, such as chivalry, honor, and charity, are also reflected in the teachings of Freemasonry.
In conclusion, while there is no direct evidence of a connection between the Knights Templar and Freemasonry, there are similarities and possible connections that have been pointed out by some theories and speculations. The values that the Knights Templar stood for are also reflected in the teachings of Freemasonry, and the degree of Knight Templar is an appendant body of Freemasonry which is recognized by some Grand Lodges.