UNAM SANCTAM Meaning and
Definition
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"Unam Sanctam" is a Latin phrase that translates to "One Holy" in English. It refers to a papal bull, an official decree issued by Pope Boniface VIII in the year 1302. It is considered one of the most famous and influential papal bulls in history. The bull asserts the supreme authority and power of the Roman Catholic Church, specifically that of the Pope, over all secular rulers and governments.
In its historical context, "Unam Sanctam" was issued as a response to a conflict between the papacy and the French monarchy. The bull states that both spiritual and temporal power over all humanity were divinely ordained to the Pope, and that every human being is subject to the Pope's authority in matters pertaining to salvation. It claims that obedience to the Pope is necessary for salvation and that any disobedience or rebellion against the Church is a grave sin.
The decree emphasizes the hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church and its prominent role in mediating between God and humanity. It proclaims the Pope's supremacy over kings and kingdoms, asserting that the temporal ruler is subordinate to the spiritual authority represented by the Pope. This papal bull has had a lasting impact on the relationship between the Church and the state, as well as shaping the conception of papal power and authority in Catholic theology and doctrine.
Etymology of UNAM SANCTAM
The phrase "unam sanctam" is derived from Latin. The word "unam" means "one", and "sanctam" means "holy" or "sacred". The phrase is most well-known for its association with a papal bull issued by Pope Boniface VIII in 1302. In the bull, Pope Boniface VIII asserted the supremacy of the papal authority and claimed that it is necessary for the salvation of every human creature to be subject to the Roman pontiff. The phrase "unam sanctam" in this context refers to the concept that there is only one, holy, and universal church, and that absolute obedience to the pope is required for salvation.
