Order of the Solar Temple

What it is

The Order of the Solar Temple was a secret society and new religious movement active in the late twentieth century. It claimed to be the modern successor to the medieval Knights Templar. Members combined Christian mysticism with esoteric theories from Theosophy and Rosicrucianism. Leaders taught that earthly life was ending and that initiates could escape to a higher spiritual plane. The group operated through a strict hierarchy of initiation levels. It attracted wealthy professionals who sought structured ritual and elite status. The organization dissolved after its leaders orchestrated multiple mass deaths across Europe and North America.

Where it comes from

Joseph Di Mambro and Luc Jouret established the group in Geneva in 1984. They emerged from a split within another neo-Templar group called the Renewed Order of the Temple. Di Mambro had previously led other esoteric circles, including the Golden Way Foundation. The founders built their structure on existing occult frameworks. They adopted titles and ranks from Masonic traditions. The group grew rapidly in French-speaking regions. It positioned itself as a continuation of ancient chivalric orders while incorporating contemporary New Age spirituality.

How it is done

Initiates progressed through three distinct degrees of membership. Each level required specific rituals and ceremonies. Members lived together in communes and paid regular fees. The outer circle attended lectures on health and ecology. Inner circles participated in closed ceremonial rites. Leaders used allegory and symbolism to convey complex theological ideas. Access to core beliefs was restricted to senior members. The group emphasized purification and preparation for a cosmic transition. Rituals involved specific roles such as priests and guardians.

Tools and materials

The order utilized symbolic regalia and hierarchical titles. Members wore specific robes during ceremonies. The structure relied on written principles and charts. Leaders circulated texts by French alchemist Jacques Breyer. These materials provided the theological framework for the group. Communal housing served as the physical base for operations. Financial contributions supported the organization's activities.

What it is for

Members sought spiritual elevation and protection from an impending apocalypse. Leaders promised transit to the star Sirius for worthy initiates. The goal was to survive the destruction of the current age. Participants believed they were preparing for a new era. The community offered social cohesion and elite status to affluent individuals. It provided a sense of purpose through apocalyptic preparation.

Who does it

Joseph Di Mambro served as the supreme leader. Luc Jouret acted as the public spokesman and second-in-command. Di Mambro had a background in jewelry and esoteric studies. Jouret was a homeopath who lectured on alternative medicine. Both men had histories with previous occult groups. The leadership maintained a strict control over information. Lower-ranking members had limited access to the group's deepest teachings.

Peoples and places

The movement was strongest in French-speaking areas. It had significant followings in Switzerland, France, and Canada. Members were often middle-aged professionals with Catholic backgrounds. The group appealed to those seeking structured mysticism. Wealthy individuals joined for the social and spiritual benefits. The organization spread through personal networks and public lectures.

What people believe

Theology centered on the star Sirius as a source of spiritual energy. Leaders taught that ascended masters resided there. The group believed the world was entering a destructive phase. They anticipated a transition between astrological ages. Texts predicted the end of incarnation around the year 1999. Members viewed themselves as chosen souls destined for transcendence. The cosmology mixed Christian concepts with Eastern and Western esoteric ideas.

When it is done

Events were tied to perceived cosmic cycles rather than traditional holidays. Leaders calculated dates for the end of the world. Specific years like 1995 and 1999 were highlighted in internal charts. Rituals marked stages of initiation and spiritual progress. The group did not observe standard religious festivals. Instead, it focused on internal milestones related to the apocalyptic timeline.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Academics classify the group variously as a cult, a new religious movement, or a UFO religion. Researchers note its eclectic mix of Templar myths and New Age beliefs. Sociologists analyze its hierarchical structure and control mechanisms. Experts point to the influence of Jacques Breyer's writings. Studies highlight the role of affluent members in sustaining the organization. Scholars also examine the legal and media responses to the mass deaths.

Compare and confuse

The Order shares similarities with other neo-Templar groups. It resembles New Age organizations in its use of astrological themes. The structure mirrors Masonic initiatory societies. Unlike many cults, it attracted wealthy and educated members. Its focus on Sirius aligns with certain UFO religions. The group's blend of Christianity and esotericism parallels Rosicrucian revival movements.

Questions people ask about Order of the Solar Temple

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Order of the Solar Temple on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data