The St. Benedict Medal, also known as the Medal of Saint Benedict, is a Christian sacramental medal with significant meaning and is particularly revered in the Catholic Church . It is considered a powerful symbol of faith, protection, and spiritual armor against evil forces.
The meaning of the medal comes from its design elements:
- Front of the Medal:
– Image of St. Benedict: The medal often depicts Saint Benedict of Nursia holding a cross in his right hand and his Rule for Monasteries in his left. This represents his devotion to Christ and his role in Western monasticism.
– Poisoned Cup and Raven: A poisoned cup and a raven are often shown beside St. Benedict. These elements refer to miracles in St. Benedict’s life: the breaking of a poisoned cup after he made the sign of the cross over it, and a raven carrying away a poisoned loaf of bread. These symbolize protection from poison and evil schemes.
– Latin Inscriptions: Latin phrases surround St. Benedict’s image, including “Crux s. patris Benedicti” (The Cross of our holy father Benedict) and “Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur!” (May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death!). This highlights St. Benedict’s role as a patron of a happy death.
- Reverse of the Medal:
– The Cross: A prominent cross is the central feature on the medal’s reverse. This represents Jesus Christ, his sacrifice, and the power of the cross to conquer sin and evil.
– Latin Initials and Phrases: The arms of the cross and the surrounding margin include initials that represent a Latin prayer of exorcism against Satan. These include:
– 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 never be my guide or Let not the dragon be my guide).
– V.R.S.N.S.M.V. – S.M.Q.L.I.V.B.: Vade Retro Satana! Nunquam Suade Mihi Vana! Sunt Mala Quae Libas. Ipse Venena Bibas! (Begone Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities! What you offer me is evil. Drink the poison yourself!).
– C.S.P.B.: Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti (The cross of our holy father Benedict) is repeated in the angles of the cross.
– PAX: The word “PAX” (peace), a Benedictine motto, is inscribed above the cross.
The St. Benedict medal is not a charm or meant to have magical powers. Instead, its power comes from the user’s faith, the intercession of St. Benedict, and the Church’s blessings. The medal is a sacramental, a sacred sign that helps people receive grace.
Many Catholics use the St. Benedict Medal for:
- Protection against evil and temptations: The medal’s inscriptions invoke prayers against Satan and evil.
- A reminder of faith: Wearing the medal is a sign of Christian faith.
- Promoting peace and good works: The “PAX” (peace) message encourages a life of peace and virtue.
The medal can be worn, attached to a rosary, carried in a pocket, or placed in homes or vehicles. The St. Benedict medal should be blessed by a priest or deacon to be used as a sacramental.
What does the St. Benedict medal protect against?
Wearing this medal is a ward against Satan and the fallen angels encroaching evil. It stands for the power of prayer in times of temptation and suffering. It symbolizes how prayer creates peace within ourselves and in our communities. Those who carry the St.
Is it okay to wear a St. Benedict medal?
There is absolutely no harm in using the medal as a reminder of someone to emulate, that’s really what saints are meant for. I have lots of Catholic friends that wear that kind of thing for that reason.
Can a non-Catholic wear a St. Benedict medal?
Short answer: Yes—with reverence and openness. Wearing a saint medal—even if you’re not Catholic—can be a meaningful expression of inspiration, curiosity, or a spiritual nudge.