Originating from the early 14th century, the devotional prayer “Anima Christi” is attributed to Pope John XXII, though its true authorship remains a matter of speculation.
The phrases used in the “Anima Christi” prayer deeply resonate with core Catholic beliefs, linking closely to the Eucharist (represented by the Body and Blood of Christ), Baptism (symbolized by water), and the Passion of Jesus (reflected in the Holy Wounds).
Anima Christi
(Poetic English translation)
Soul of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, save me.
Blood of Christ, embolden me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
O good Jesus, hear me.
Within your wounds hide me.
Never permit me to be parted from you.
From the evil Enemy defend me.
At the hour of my death call me
and bid me come to you,
that with your Saints I may praise you
for age upon age.
Amen.
Anima Christi
(Latin Text)
Anima Christi, sanctifica me.
Corpus Christi, salva me.
Sanguis Christi, inebria me.
Aqua lateris Christi, lava me.
Passio Christi, conforta me.
O bone Jesu, exaudi me.
Intra tua vulnera absconde me.
Ne permittas me separari a te.
Ab hoste maligno defende me.
In hora mortis meae voca me.
Et jube me venire ad te,
Ut cum Sanctis tuis laudem te,
In saecula saeculorum.
Amen.
Anima Christi
(Translation by Saint John Henry Newman)
Soul of Christ, be my sanctification;
Body of Christ, be my salvation;
Blood of Christ, fill all my veins;
Water of Christ’s side, wash out my stains;
Passion of Christ, my comfort be;
O good Jesus, listen to me;
In Thy wounds I fain would hide;
Ne’er to be parted from Thy side;
Guard me, should the foe assail me;
Call me when my life shall fail me;
Bid me come to Thee above,
With Thy saints to sing Thy love,
World without end.
Amen.