• The sword is the most important symbol associated with the Knights Templar.sword image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
  
  The Knights Templar are an order with origins stretching back to the 11th century. Originally a military order, the Knights Templar tradition has carried on through the ages to the modern day. The Knights Templar are a branch of Freemasonry -- a tradition known for its complex and arcane rituals. The Knights Templar have tools which are unique to the rituals of their order.
  
  

The Sword

• The sword is the most identifiable tool of the order of the Knights Templar. Since
  
  inception as a Masonic order, the Knights Templar have been often symbolized by what is known as a fraternal sword. These swords were never meant to be used in battle.
  
  These swords with symbolic designs play an important part in the Templar Masonic rituals. Masonic symbolism is an intensely complicated and complex subject, so there are many variations. The Masonic square, triangles, "KT" and eagles are some of the symbols which might be present.
  
  The pommel of a Templar sword is typically a knight's head. The crown and cross symbol often appear on the grip. The blades and sheaths on Templar fraternal swords are usually very ornate.
  
  

Gloves

• White gloves are another important part of Templar symbolism. From a symbolic standpoint, the white gloves convey purity and innocence. The practical aspect of the gloves is the protection they provide to the Knight's sword during the many rituals involving the handling of their swords. Gloves prevent acid from a Knight's hands tarnishing the sword.
  
  

Cups

• Cups are also very important symbols to the Knights Templar due in large part to the connection of the order to the legend of the Holy Grail as well as the symbolism which cups, in general, hold in Christianity.
  
  In many Knights Templar rituals, there is a designated "Cup Bearer." Drinking from sacred cups plays a role in many of their carefully staged rituals.