Among the great saints of the Church, few have left a legacy as lasting as St. Benedict of Nursia. His wisdom shaped monastic life for fifteen centuries, and the medal that bears his name is one of the most beloved symbols of protection in the Catholic world. In this article, we explore his life, the meaning of every symbol on the St. Benedict medal, and how to choose one in 18K gold.
Who Was St. Benedict?
St. Benedict was born around the year 480 in Nursia, Italy. He left the noise of Rome to live a life of solitude and prayer, and around 529 he founded the famous monastery of Monte Cassino. There he wrote the Rule of St. Benedict, a guide to community life built on prayer, work and humility, summed up in the motto Ora et Labora, "pray and work." The Rule still guides Benedictine monks and nuns today, and in 1964 Pope Paul VI named St. Benedict Patron Saint of Europe.
Feast Day of St. Benedict
The Church celebrates the Feast of St. Benedict on July 11. Benedictine communities also honor him on March 21, the day of his death in 547, known as his Transitus.
The Meaning of the St. Benedict Medal
The front of the medal shows St. Benedict holding a cross in his right hand and the book of his Rule in his left. The back is filled with Latin letters, each one the start of a short prayer:
- C.S.P.B., around the cross: Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti, "The Cross of our Holy Father Benedict."
- C.S.S.M.L., down the cross: Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux, "May the Holy Cross be my light."
- N.D.S.M.D., across the cross: Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux, "Let not the dragon be my guide."
- V.R.S. N.S.M.V. S.M.Q.L. I.V.B., around the edge: "Begone, Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities! What you offer me is evil. Drink the poison yourself!"
- PAX, at the top: "Peace," the motto of the Benedictine Order.
Because of these prayers, the St. Benedict medal has long been worn as a sign of faith and of protection against evil and temptation.
How to Choose Your 18K Gold St. Benedict Medal
For babies, the 9mm St. Benedict medal is light and comfortable. For children and everyday wear, the 13mm round medal is a favorite, while adults often choose the 16mm or the large 24mm medal. The St. Benedict medal also appears on the crucifix of many rosaries; learn more in our guide to 18K gold rosaries.
Whether worn as a pendant, kept at home or given to a loved one, the St. Benedict medal is a timeless reminder of faith, courage and protection. Explore all our 18K gold saint and religious medals.
