This is a comprehensive feature on the history and cultural impact of the phrase "Vade Retro Satana."
The shorter phrase “vade retro” (simply "go back") appears as far back as the Roman playwright Terence in his work Phormio . The Exorcism Formula This is a comprehensive feature on the history
Crux sacra sit mihi lux / Non draco sit mihi dux Vade retro satana / Nunquam suade mihi vana Sunt mala quae libas / Ipse venena bibas The Latin phrase translates most literally to "Step
The phrase became a cornerstone of Catholic tradition as part of a Medieval exorcism formula. In 1415, a manuscript was discovered at Metten Abbey in Bavaria that contained the full poetic prayer associated with the phrase: Satan" or "Begone
It is derived from the Latin Vulgate, specifically Mark 8:33, where Jesus rebukes Saint Peter with the words “vade retro me Satana” ("get behind me, Satan").
The Latin phrase translates most literally to "Step back, Satan" or "Begone, Satan" . While "retro" is often associated with "behind," linguists note it more accurately means "back" or "away," framing the phrase as a direct command to retreat. The phrase has two primary origins: