separateurCreated with Sketch.

Did you know R.I.P. is a Latin prayer?

RIP GRAVESTONE
whatsappfacebooktwitter-xemailnative
Philip Kosloski - published on 11/02/18
whatsappfacebooktwitter-xemailnative

The abbreviation frequently found on gravestones has an ancient history tied to Catholic funeral ceremonies.

Help Aleteia continue its mission by making a tax-deductible donation. In this way, Aleteia’s future will be yours as well.


Donate with just 3 clicks

*Your donation is tax deductible!

Found on gravestones throughout the world, R.I.P. is an abbreviation that has a rich history. The letters stand for a Latin phrase, requiescat in pace. The direct translation in English is “rest in peace,” though the Latin words are actually part of a much longer prayer for the deceased.

The first use of the Latin phrase dates to the 8th century and is meant to be a prayer for the deceased person, praying that they may experience eternal rest in Heaven. It corresponds with the Catholic belief in purgatory and the phrase remains a central part of Catholic funeral ceremonies today.


MUSEO DELLE ANIME DEL PURGATORIO
Read more:
Eerie messages from the dead at the Museum of the Souls of Purgatory

The prayer is most commonly found in the following verse and response:

Requiem æternam dona ei, Domine
℟. Et lux perpetua luceat ei:
℣. Requiescat in pace.
℟. Amen.

℣. Eternal rest, grant unto him/her, O LORD,
℟. And let perpetual light shine upon him/her.
℣. May he/she rest in peace.
℟. Amen.

This prayer is also frequently set to music, especially in Latin “Requiem” Masses. Composers such as Bach and Mozart created their own compositions that feature this prayer.


PRIEST,MASS,VIOLET VESTMENTS
Read more:
Why do some priests wear violet at funerals, while others wear white or black?

Did you enjoy this article? Would you like to read more like this?

Get Aleteia delivered to your inbox. It’s free!

Aleteia exists thanks to your donations

Help us to continue our mission of sharing Christian news and inspiring stories. Please make a donation today! Take advantage of the end of the year to get a tax deduction for 2024.

banner image
Top 10
See More
Newsletter
Did you enjoy this article? Would you like to read more like this?

Get Aleteia delivered to your inbox. It’s free!