Deus vult

Deus vult (Latin for "God wills it!") was a battle cry used during the First Crusade in 1096, reportedly shouted by the crusaders after Pope Urban II gave his speech at the Council of Clermont, galvanizing support for the expedition to reclaim the Holy Land.

The phrase encapsulates the belief that the Crusades were undertaken at God's command and for His glory. It served as a powerful rallying cry, conveying a sense of divine purpose and justifying the actions of the crusaders. The phrase fostered unity and religious fervor among the diverse groups participating in the Crusades, transcending linguistic and national boundaries.

Over time, "Deus vult" has become associated not only with the historical Crusades but also with various movements and ideologies seeking to invoke a sense of religious justification for political or military action. Its modern usage is complex and contested, often employed ironically or as a symbol of specific historical or political perspectives. Some contemporary groups considered extremist have adopted the phrase, leading to controversy and concerns about its association with intolerance and violence. Therefore, context is crucial when interpreting its current use. While the original meaning conveyed religious conviction, its modern application often carries connotations beyond simple faith.