The Order of the Knights of Malta, also known as the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, is one of the most distinctive and chivalric bodies within the York Rite of Freemasonry. It stands as the crowning and final order conferred within the Commandery of Knights Templar, representing the culmination of a Christian Mason’s journey through the York Rite.
Historical Background
The origins of the Knights of Malta trace back to the 11th century, when a group of devout men established a hospital in Jerusalem to care for sick and wounded pilgrims during the Crusades. Known as the Order of the Hospital of St. John, these men later took up arms to defend the faith and protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Over time, they became known as the Knights Hospitaller, and after relocating to the island of Malta in 1530, they became the Sovereign Military Order of Malta — a title still recognized in history today.
Freemasonry, drawing from this rich chivalric and spiritual heritage, adopted the name and symbolism of the Knights of Malta as an allegorical and moral lesson within the York Rite system.
The Place of the Order in the York Rite
Within the York Rite, the journey of the Christian Mason progresses through three chivalric orders conferred in the Commandery:
1. The Illustrious Order of the Red Cross – emphasizing truth and fidelity.
2. The Order of Malta – symbolizing the spiritual reward and peace that follow faithful service.
3. The Order of the Knights Templar – representing the defense of the Christian faith.
Symbolism and Teachings
The lessons of the Order of Malta are deeply Christian and symbolic of purification, humility, and charity. The ritual reminds each Knight that service to God and humanity is the highest form of devotion. The white mantle, adorned with the eight-pointed Maltese Cross, symbolizes purity of life and the eight beatitudes of Christ, which the Knight is encouraged to embody.
These eight points are said to represent the virtues of:
Loyalty
Piety
Generosity
Bravery
Glory and honor
Contempt of death
Helpfulness toward the poor and the sick
Respect for the Church
Together, they remind every Knight of his moral and spiritual obligations as a Christian and a Mason.
The Ceremony and Its Meaning
The conferral of the Order of Malta is both solemn and inspiring. It blends the language of medieval knighthood with the moral teachings of Christianity. The ceremony emphasizes defense of the faith, purity of conscience, and charitable service, culminating in the investiture of the candidate as a Knight of Malta.
The experience often leaves a profound impression on the candidate, reminding him that true knighthood is not a matter of sword or title, but of faith, humility, and service to others.
Modern Relevance
Today, the Masonic Order of the Knights of Malta continues to embody the principles of Christian charity and brotherly love. Its teachings inspire members to serve their communities, defend moral truth, and live according to the highest ideals of the Craft.
Though rooted in ancient tradition, the Order’s message remains timeless:
to live as a true Christian Knight—faithful to God, loyal to one’s duty, and compassionate toward all.
