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:
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
