Saint Benedict Medal

The Saint Benedict Medal is a Christian sacramental medal containing symbols and text related to the life of Saint Benedict of Nursia, used by Roman Catholics, as well as Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists and the Western Orthodox, in the Benedictine Christian tradition, especially votarists and oblates.

The medal is one of the oldest and most honored medals used by Christians and due to the belief in its power against evil is also known as the "devil-chasing medal". As early as the 11th century, it may have initially had the form of Saint Benedict's cross, and was used by pope Leo IX.

The reverse side of the medal carries the Vade retro satana ("Step back, Satan") formula which has been used by Christians to ward off evil since the 15th century. Sometimes carried as part of the rosary, it is also found individually.

In widespread use after its formal approval by Pope Benedict XIV in the 18th century, the medal is used by Roman Catholics to ward off spiritual and physical dangers, especially those related to evil, poison, and temptation.

The exact time and date of the making of the first Saint Benedict Medal are not clear, however, it is likely that may have initially had the form of a cross. Catholic tradition holds that as a young Benedictine, the future Pope Leo IX attributed his recovery from a snake bite to that cross. After becoming pope in 1049, Leo IX enriched the St. Benedict cross to the form of a medal, and gave it blessings and indulgences.

Saint Vincent de Paul, who died in 1660, appears to have been acquainted with the Medal and the Sisters of Charity founded by him have worn it attached to their rosary beads.

The medal was formally approved by Pope Benedict XIV in 1741. The medal in its traditional design was in use for many decades and is in use also today.

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