What does "To Thine Own Self Be True" mean?

Definition and Historical Context

"To Thine Own Self Be True" is a famous phrase that originates from William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” spoken by the character Polonius (Act 1, Scene 3). Over time, it has often been interpreted as a call to personal authenticity and integrity. Yet, this phrase is not a direct quotation from Scripture. Examining it through a biblical lens involves exploring what it means to be true to the core of who one is created to be, and whether living by one’s personal inclinations fully aligns with the teachings found in God’s Word.

Authenticity and the Image of God

In Scripture, humanity is portrayed as uniquely created in the image of God:

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness…’” (Genesis 1:26).

This divine image points to an inherent dignity and value. When someone says “To Thine Own Self Be True,” it can be viewed positively as an admonition to live authentically, in harmony with the moral and spiritual design intended by the Creator.

Yet, while bearing God’s image, all people have been affected by sin:

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)

Being true to oneself in a biblical sense is not simply following every human impulse, since those impulses may be corrupted by sin. Instead, Scripture teaches that authentic living is best understood in relation to God’s character and purposes.

The Heart and Its Inclinations

Popular culture often interprets “To Thine Own Self Be True” as following the heart’s desires. However, the Bible highlights humanity’s need to be cautious with purely inward inclinations:

“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9)

If taken to mean “follow your own inclinations regardless of moral boundaries,” then “To Thine Own Self Be True” conflicts with the biblical admonition to align our hearts with God’s righteousness. People are urged to look toward the transforming work of God in Christ, rather than relying on the self uncritically.

Renewing the Mind

Scripture commends a renewal of the mind to reorient the believer toward eternal truth and godly character:

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” (Romans 12:2).

This transformation shapes the authentic self to reflect God’s intention, rather than human fallenness. The believer is called to “put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires” (Ephesians 4:22) and to “put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24).

In practical terms, being true to oneself from a biblical viewpoint includes actively yielding to God’s transformative power. Identity is shaped by repentance, faith, and daily submission to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Conscience and Integrity

While the human conscience can be seared by sin (1 Timothy 4:2), Scripture also highlights its God-given role in moral guidance. Over time, a conscience informed by biblical truth can serve as a reliable guide:

“I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.” (Acts 24:16)

Thus, under the influence of God’s Word, practicing integrity—allowing actions to match convictions shaped by Scripture—does mirror the notion of “To Thine Own Self Be True.” This is not a self-determined morality but a truth anchored in God’s character and revealed will.

Christ-Centered Authenticity

Believers find their truest self in relationship with God through Christ, who reconciles humanity to the Creator. He declared, “I am the way and the truth and the life…” (John 14:6). By following Him, one’s authenticity is aligned with the ultimate standard of truth.

Rather than seek validation solely from human desires or societal norms, Scripture directs individuals to discover who they are in Christ. As the Apostle Paul states, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me…” (Galatians 2:20). This transformation means that a renewed believer’s “own self” is increasingly shaped by the love, humility, and holiness exemplified in Christ.

Practical Implications

1. Discernment: Not every widespread interpretation of “To Thine Own Self Be True” aligns with biblical wisdom. Discernment requires careful self-reflection in the light of God’s Word.

2. Humility: True authenticity involves humility, recognizing that the self can be prone to error or self-exaltation, and therefore must be molded by divine truth.

3. Obedience: The Bible calls for obedience to God’s design, which in many cases supersedes personal impulses. “To Thine Own Self Be True” means living in harmony with one’s created purpose, rather than forging an identity separate from God.

4. Freedom in Christ: Living in Christ offers freedom from sin’s distortions. The believer’s true self flourishes as the Holy Spirit produces virtues like love, joy, peace, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Conclusion

“To Thine Own Self Be True” has historically pointed to authenticity and personal integrity. From a biblical perspective, the ultimate expression of such authenticity does not rest on unexamined self-interest or innate desires, but finds its anchor in the character and revelation of God.

In Scripture, the call is to live in the truth of who one is designed to be—a being created in God’s image yet in need of redemption through Christ. True authenticity involves the transformation of the heart and mind by the Holy Spirit, grounding one’s identity in a divinely authored purpose. This deeper understanding offers a path that honors both the counsel of integrity within the phrase “To Thine Own Self Be True” and the consistent teaching of Scripture.