The Saint Benedict medal is a powerful sacramental in the Catholic Church. It bears the image of Saint Benedict, a sixth-century monk known for his spiritual wisdom and contributions to monastic life.
Here’s what each part of the medal represents:
Front of the Medal:
- Saint Benedict’s Image: Represents him as a powerful intercessor against evil and a source of spiritual guidance. He holds the written Rule of Saint Benedict in one hand and a cross in the other.
- Raven and Cup with Serpent: Symbolize an incident in his life when he miraculously saved himself from poisoning.
- Above the cup, it reads: “Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti,” which means, “The Cross of [our] Holy Father Benedict.”
- Surrounding him are the words: “Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur!” (May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death).
Reverse Side of the Medal:
- Cross: Signifies Christ’s victory over sin and death through His crucifixion.
- Initials on the Cross Arms:
- “C.S.S.M.L.” stands for “Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux” (May the Holy Cross be my light).
- “N.D.S.M.D.” stands for “Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux” (Let not the dragon be my guide), rejecting evil.
- Larger Letters Surrounding the Center Cross (“CSPB”): Stand for “Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti” (The Cross of [our] Holy Father Benedict).
- Top of the Medal: “PAX,” meaning “peace.”
- Surrounding the Back of the Medal: the letters “VRSNSMV-SMQlivB,” symbolizing a Latin prayer for protection: “Vade Retro Satana! Nunquam Suade Mihi Vana!” (Begone, Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities!)
