St. Benedict Medal Meaning: A Symbol of Protection and Faith
The St. Benedict Medal is one of the most powerful and widely recognized sacramentals in the Catholic Church. It is a sacred object associated with protection, blessings, and spiritual strength. The medal bears various symbols and inscriptions that hold deep meaning, representing the triumph of faith over evil. This article explores the history of the St. Benedict Medal, the significance of its inscriptions, and how it is used as a devotional item.
History of the St. Benedict Medal
St. Benedict of Nursia (480-547 AD) was the founder of the Benedictine monastic tradition and a key figure in Western monasticism. He wrote the Rule of St. Benedict, a guide for monks that emphasized prayer, work, and obedience to God. Over time, St. Benedict became associated with miracles and protection against evil.
The St. Benedict Medal originated in the Middle Ages, but its design evolved over centuries. The current version, known as the Jubilee Medal, was officially approved by Pope Benedict XIV in 1742. This medal is not just a symbol of devotion but also a source of spiritual protection.
The Design of the St. Benedict Medal
The medal typically features two sides: the front displaying an image of St. Benedict and the back adorned with letters and symbols representing prayers and invocations.
Front Side of the Medal
The front side of the medal features an image of St. Benedict holding a cross in one hand and the Rule of St. Benedict in the other. A raven is depicted nearby, symbolizing the legend of how a poisoned loaf of bread meant to kill him was carried away by a raven. A cup is also shown, representing another miracle where a poisoned drink intended for him shattered before he could consume it.
Around the image of St. Benedict, the inscription reads:
“Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur.”
Translation:
“May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death.”
This phrase reflects the belief that St. Benedict intercedes for the faithful, especially at the time of death, offering protection and guidance toward eternal life.
Back Side of the Medal
The back of the St. Benedict Medal contains a series of letters, each representing a Latin prayer or invocation for divine protection. Below is the meaning of each inscription:
The Cross at the Center
At the center of the medal is a large cross, which symbolizes Christ’s victory over sin and death.
The vertical line of the cross contains the letters:
- C S S M L – Crux Sacra Sit Mihi LuxTranslation: “May the Holy Cross be my light.”
The horizontal line of the cross has the letters:
- N D S M D – Non Draco Sit Mihi DuxTranslation: “Let not the dragon be my guide.”
These phrases reaffirm the wearer’s faith in Christ and reject the influence of Satan.
The Circular Inscriptions
Around the outer edge of the medal, additional letters form a protective prayer against evil:
- V R S – Vade Retro SatanaTranslation: “Begone, Satan!”
- N S M V – Nunquam Suade Mihi VanaTranslation: “Never tempt me with your vanities.”
- S M Q L – Sunt Mala Quae LibasTranslation: “What you offer is evil.”
- I V B – Ipse Venena BibasTranslation: “Drink the poison yourself.”
These words serve as a strong exorcism prayer, rejecting Satan and his temptations.
The Latin Inscription on the Upper Half
Above the cross is the word “PAX”, which means “Peace” in Latin. Some older medals may bear “IHS” (a Christogram for Jesus) or “I.O.G.D.” (an abbreviation for In Omnibus Glorificetur Deus, meaning “That in all things God may be glorified”).
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The St. Benedict Medal’s Use and Power
1. Protection Against Evil
The St. Benedict Medal is widely used for protection against spiritual dangers, including demonic influence, temptations, and physical harm. It is often worn as a necklace, placed in homes, or embedded in foundations for spiritual safeguarding.
2. Blessings and Miracles
Many believers attribute blessings, healings, and divine interventions to the use of the St. Benedict Medal. It is a popular sacramental among exorcists and spiritual healers.
3. Enhancing Faith and Devotion
Wearing or carrying the medal serves as a daily reminder of faith, commitment to God, and the importance of resisting evil.
4. Use in Exorcisms
The St. Benedict Medal is frequently used in exorcisms and spiritual warfare prayers due to its powerful inscriptions.
5. Wearing and Placing the Medal
The medal can be:
- Worn as a pendant or part of a rosary.
- Placed in vehicles for travel safety.
- Positioned near doors and windows for home protection.
- Carried in pockets or wallets for personal spiritual defense.
Blessing of the St. Benedict Medal
To unlock its full spiritual benefits, the St. Benedict Medal should be blessed by a Catholic priest using a special blessing approved by the Church. The traditional blessing includes prayers of exorcism and consecration to God.
Summary
The St. Benedict Medal is a powerful sacramental representing faith, divine protection, and the rejection of evil. Its inscriptions are prayers of exorcism and supplication, reminding wearers of God’s presence and St. Benedict’s intercession. Whether worn, carried, or placed in homes, the medal serves as a profound tool for spiritual warfare and a symbol of unwavering faith in Christ.
