Deus vult (Ecclesiastical Latin: 'God wills it') is a Christian motto relating to Divine providence.[1][2] It was first chanted by Catholics during the First Crusade in 1096 as a rallying cry, most likely under the form Deus le veult or Deus lo vult, as reported by the Gesta Francorum (ca. 1100) and the Historia Belli Sacri (ca. 1130).[a][1]
In modern times, the Latin motto has different meanings depending on the context. It has been used as a metaphor referring to "God's will",[3][4] by Christians throughout history, such as the Puritans,[5] or as a motto by chivalric orders such as the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.[6] In the 21st century, Christian nationalist movements, as well as Christian right and far-right groups, have adopted the motto as a catchphrase.[7] Medievalist scholars have criticized this use as harmful and historically inaccurate.[8]
In Europe, Christians were convinced that God wanted them to bring the whole region back into the originally Christian fold. Their motto was Deus vult (God wills it).
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