Final answer:
Western Christians were motivated by religious zeal, the promise of forgiveness of sins, and the lures of land, wealth, and adventure to join the Crusades. The blending of military venture and pilgrimage to reclaim and protect the Holy City of Jerusalem catered to both the devout and those seeking material gains.
Step-by-step explanation:
The motivations that prompted western Christians to leave their homes and embark on the Crusades were multifaceted. They were driven by religious zeal, a desire for adventure, and the prospect of acquiring land, wealth, and titles.
Additionally, the Church's promise of forgiveness for sins was a powerful incentive for many participants. The concept of a holy war to reclaim the sacred lands of the Holy City of Jerusalem—seen as a gateway to heaven—resonated deeply with religious fervor.
In essence, the Crusades blended the ideas of armed conflict and pilgrimage, as the journey to Jerusalem was considered both a military expedition to aid fellow Christians and to reclaim holy sites, as well as a pious endeavor to visit and protect the revered lands where Jesus lived.
Not only nobles and knights but also common people, including women and the poor, were part of the crusading movement. Their motivations ranged from spiritual aspirations to practical considerations of land and resources.