Sic transit gloria mundi is a Latin phrase, which means "Thus passes the glory of the world.", but is more commonly interpreted as "Fame is fleeting."

Traditionally, papal coronations are thrice interrupted by a monk (some say barefoot) holding a pole to which is affixed a burning piece of flax. After it finishes burning, the monk announces, "(Pater sancte), sic transit gloria mundi." This is meant to remind the Pope that, despite the grandeur of the ceremony, and the long history of the office, he is a mortal man.

Similarly, the slave holding the crown in a Roman triumph would whisper "Memento mori," meaning "Remember that you must die." As reiterated in the movie Patton, it was said in English as "All glory is fleeting".

The shortened "Sic transit gloria" is spoken multiple times by various characters in the movie Rushmore. It is also the name of a song performed by Levi Garrett on his album "Blue & Acqua". The band Brand New also have a song on their album Deja Entendu named Sic Transit Gloria... Glory Fades. In addition, Goldie Hawn's character in Foul Play is named Gloria Mundy. The romantic comedy has an attempted assassination of the Pope as it's subplot.
Category:Latin religious phrases

See also

*memento mori
*vanitas

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