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:
This is a comprehensive feature on the history and cultural impact of the phrase "Vade Retro Satana." The Latin phrase translates most literally to "Step
Crux sacra sit mihi lux / Non draco sit mihi dux Vade retro satana / Nunquam suade mihi vana Sunt mala quae libas / Ipse venena bibas "May the Holy Cross be my light /
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 Exorcism Formula
"May the Holy Cross be my light / Let not the dragon be my guide / Step back, Satan / Never tempt me with vain things / What you offer me is evil / Drink the poison yourself". The Saint Benedict Medal
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:
The shorter phrase “vade retro” (simply "go back") appears as far back as the Roman playwright Terence in his work Phormio . The Exorcism Formula