sic transit gloria mundi
The English phrase "all glory is fleeting" is expressed in Latin as sic transit gloria mundi.
This phrase is used to remind people of the transience of earthly power, success and fame.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "thus passes the glory of the world".
When do people say it?
Historically, this specific formula was used during the papal coronation ceremony to signify the temporary nature of even the highest earthly office.
Did you know?
- The word glōria may be a distant relative of the English word 'ignore'. Both may share a root related to 'knowledge' and 'being well-known'.
- While the phrase is used globally today, it is closely tied to the 'Papal Coronation' where a master of ceremonies would burn a candle and chant these words to humble the new Pope.
- The word mundi comes from mundus, which can mean 'the world' but also 'clean' or 'elegant'. This duality suggests that the 'glory of the world' is something that is polished and refined yet still temporary.
Examples in context
- Reges cadunt, sic transit gloria mundi.Kings fall, all glory is fleeting.
- Memento: sic transit gloria mundi.Remember: all glory is fleeting.
Example conversation
Gaius and Lucia are looking at the ruins of an ancient palace.
- GaiusEcce ruinas imperii.Behold the ruins of the empire.
- LuciaIta est, sic transit gloria mundi.It is so, all glory is fleeting.
- GaiusNihil aeternum est.Nothing is eternal.
- LuciaVerbum tuum est verum.Your word is true.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gloria, sic, sic transit gloria mundi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
