Saint Benedict and the Benedictine tradition
Born in Nursia around the end of the 5th century, Saint Benedict is one of the great figures of Western monasticism.
A monk and then abbot, notably the founder of the monastery of Monte Cassino, he wrote the Rule of Saint Benedict, intended to organize monastic life around prayer, obedience, work, humility and community life. His Rule was meant to exert a considerable influence on Western monasticism and on the spiritual history of Europe.
The Benedictine heritage remains alive today through the many congregations and communities of the Benedictine family.
The obverse - Saint Benedict
On the traditional obverse of the medal appears Saint Benedict holding the Cross in his right hand and his Rule in his left hand.
Traditionally, two episodes associated with his life appear at his sides: the poisoned cup, which broke when he made the Sign of the Cross over it, and the raven carrying away the poisoned bread intended for him.
Around Saint Benedict is written:
Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur
“May we be strengthened by his presence at the hour of our death.”
Saint Benedict is indeed traditionally invoked as the patron of a good death.
The reverse — The Cross of Saint Benedict
Inside this ring appears the reverse of the medal, dominated by the Cross of Saint Benedict.
The letters surrounding it do not form a mysterious decoration: each belongs to an ancient Latin prayer formula.
C.S.P.B.
Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti
Cross of our Holy Father Benedict.
On the Cross:
C.S.S.M.L.
Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux
May the Holy Cross be my light.
N.D.S.M.D.
Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux
May the dragon not be my guide.
Then, around the medal:
V.R.S.N.S.M.V.
Vade Retro Satana, Nunquam Suade Mihi Vana
Step back, Satan; never advise me your vanities.
S.M.Q.L.I.V.B.
Sunt Mala Quae Libas, Ipse Venena Bibas
What you offer is evil; drink your poisons yourself.
Finally, at the top appears:
PAX - Peace
Motto associated for centuries with the Benedictine tradition. These inscriptions constitute an ancient Latin prayer of rejection of evil associated with the Saint Benedict Medal.
The medal is therefore not considered in the Christian tradition as a talisman or a magical object: it is worn as a sign of Faith, an appeal to God's blessing and protection, particularly through the intercession of Saint Benedict. The Benedictine Order also reminds us that it can be carried on one's person or kept in the home, vehicle, or workplace with this intention.
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Silver 925
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Double-sided Saint Benedict Medal double face
- Effigy of Saint Benedict on the outer face
- Cross and inscriptions of the Saint Benedict Medal inside
- Openwork side structure
- Contrasting finishes and blackened details
- Inspired by the Benedictine tradition
- Christian jewelry with a strong symbolic dimension
“May the Holy Cross be my light, may the dragon not be my guide.”
Delivered in a brand gift box with a pewter badge.
