The Meaning Behind the Papal Name "Leo XIV"

"Leo" Means "Lion" in Latin,
Symbolizing Strength and Courage in Catholicism
Signifies the Inheritance of Leo XIII's Emphasis on Labor Rights

As American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, has been elected as the 267th Pope, there is growing interest in the meaning behind his chosen papal name, "Leo XIV."

On May 8 (local time), the conclave of 133 cardinal electors selected Cardinal Prevost as the new Pope on the fourth ballot, after just two days of deliberation. The new Pope was elected 17 days after the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, and the inauguration ceremony is expected to be held within a few days.

The papal name that Cardinal Prevost will use going forward is "Leo XIV." In Latin, "Leo" means "lion," symbolizing strength, courage, and leadership in the Catholic tradition.

Leo 14, elected as the 267th Pope, came out to the 'Balcony of Blessings' at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on the afternoon of the 8th (local time) and waved to the crowd. Photo by AFP

The new Pope personally chooses his papal name, and it is common to select the name of a previous Pope or a saint. This is because the legacy and path of the name's original bearer often influence the new Pope's values and direction. Therefore, by considering whom the new Pope had in mind when choosing his name, one can indirectly infer which values he intends to prioritize during his papacy.

The papal name "Leo XIV" signifies a continuation of the legacy of Pope Leo XIII (who reigned from 1878 to 1903), who emphasized labor rights and social justice at the end of the 19th century. Leo XIII is known as the "father of Catholic social teaching." In 1891, he issued the Church's first social encyclical, "Rerum Novarum" ("Of New Things"), which shed light on the harsh realities faced by workers during the Industrial Revolution and addressed the causes of poverty and social conflict, as well as the duties of the state. For these reasons, Leo XIII is regarded as a key figure in leading the Catholic Church toward social engagement and modernization.

Previously, there was much speculation within the Catholic community regarding the new Pope's choice of papal name. Some predicted that if the new Pope were a reformer, he might choose "Leo" in honor of Leo XIII, who was dedicated to social justice and workers' rights. Others suggested that if he wished to emphasize integrity, he might select "Innocent" in honor of Innocent XIII (who reigned from 1721 to 1724), who was known for combating corruption and nepotism.

Regarding this, Matteo Bruni, spokesperson for the Holy See, stated, "The new Pope's choice of the name 'Leo XIV' is a clear reference to the modern Catholic social doctrine that began with Leo XIII's encyclical 'Rerum Novarum.' It is also a clear indication that the Church is reflecting on how people work and live in the era of artificial intelligence (AI)."

Pope Leo XIV, elected as the 267th pope. Photo by EPA Yonhap News

As indicated by the name "Leo XIV," thirteen previous Popes have used the name "Leo." The most popular papal name to date is John, chosen by 23 Popes throughout history. This is followed by Gregory and Benedict, each with 16 Popes, and Clement with 14. However, "Peter" is considered a taboo as a papal name. This is largely due to the deep respect and symbolism associated with Saint Peter, the first apostle among Jesus's twelve disciples and the first Pope. The prophecy of Malachy, which claims that "Peter II will be the last Pope," has also contributed to reinforcing this taboo.

Meanwhile, although Leo XIV is an American citizen, he spent 20 years as a missionary in Peru. In 2015, he acquired Peruvian citizenship and was appointed Archbishop of Peru in the same year. Some analysts suggest that his pastoral work in marginalized areas such as impoverished neighborhoods, despite being American, played a role in his election as Pope.

To mark the election of the first American Pope, U.S. President Donald Trump also sent a congratulatory message. President Trump wrote on Truth Social, "It is truly an honor to learn that he is the first American Pope, and it is a great honor for our country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. That moment will be a very meaningful occasion."