What does St. Malachy's prophecy predict about future popes?

Historical Background

St. Malachy (1094–1148), an Irish bishop and later Archbishop of Armagh, was renowned in medieval times for his devotion and reforming efforts within the Church. Although the “Prophecy of the Popes” is traditionally attributed to him, it first surfaced in the late sixteenth century. The work consists of a series of short Latin phrases (often called mottos) ostensibly describing each pope from Celestine II (elected in 1143) up to a final pontiff before the end of the age.

The prophecy was included in Arnold Wion’s 1595 publication, “Lignum Vitae.” Wion did not provide earlier manuscripts predating his publication, and as a result, many scholars question whether these predictions actually originated with Malachy himself. Some consider it a pious forgery or an attempt to influence papal elections at the time. Despite these debates over authenticity, the “Prophecy of the Popes” remains an intriguing subject for those who study eschatology and Church history.

Overview of the Prophecy

The prophecy comprises 112 cryptic Latin mottos. Each motto supposedly characterizes a pope, relating to family backgrounds, national origins, or personal symbolism for that pope’s reign. For instance, historical interpreters contend that certain mottos appear to match actual events or papal coats of arms.

The list ends with a statement regarding a final pope often identified as “Petrus Romanus” (“Peter the Roman”), under whom great tribulations befall the Church and the world. Some interpreters believe this final pope ushers in the end of the age, while others suspect it implies a cataclysmic transition toward a new era. The prophecy’s dramatic conclusion has fueled widespread speculation, especially during times of crisis.

Proposed Identification of Popes

Advocates of the prophecy argue that many mottos match details about papal lineages or personal emblems. Examples include references that seem to match:

• Urban VII (1590): His motto “From the Dew of Heaven” is sometimes linked to his short reign, though the precise correlation remains speculative.

• Innocent X (1644–1655): Associated with the motto “Joy of the Cross,” interpreted as symbolizing particular events during his pontificate.

As popes in modern times have come and gone—John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis—various interpreters have tried to align these individuals with relevant mottos. In each case, the fulfillment is debated, partially because the Latin phrases are often vague and open to multiple readings.

The Final Pope: “Petrus Romanus”

The prophecy’s greatest point of interest is its final entry, which names “Peter the Roman.” It proclaims that in his time, the city of seven hills (understood to be Rome) will be destroyed, and a formidable judgment might occur.

Many who believe the prophecy is authentic look for a pope with an explicit link to the name Peter, or a strong connection to Rome. Others propose that “Peter the Roman” is intended as a metaphor for a pontiff who reflects the humility and apostolic origin of Saint Peter. Critics, however, point out that no single concluding motto stands undisputed to indicate when or how these events would transpire.

Authenticity and Scholarly Analysis

A significant number of historians and theologians question the document’s authenticity. They cite:

1. The prophecy’s unexplained absence prior to 1595.

2. Alleged anachronisms within the Latin phrases that reflect later centuries.

3. Suspiciously accurate correlations for popes leading up to 1590, contrasted with more tenuous correlations afterward.

No conclusive medieval manuscript with the text has ever been found. Many believe it was compiled or written in the 16th century to support specific candidates in a tense papal conclave. Nonetheless, the prophecy has had a persistent following, particularly among those fascinated by end-times speculation.

Comparison with Biblical Prophecy

Scripture, the definitive authority for many believers, does not mention St. Malachy’s prophecy. While the Bible teaches that human history culminates in the events portrayed in passages like Matthew 24, 1 Thessalonians 4–5, and the Book of Revelation, no canonical text reveals a specific sequence of popes. Rather, believers are warned against false prophecy while remaining watchful for the Lord’s return:

• “But about that day or hour no one knows—not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son—but only the Father.” (Matthew 24:36)

• “Even so, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect.” (Matthew 24:44)

From a biblical viewpoint, any extra-biblical “prophecy” must be tested. Deuteronomy 18:22 states: “If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not come to pass or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken.” This calls readers to exercise discernment about predictions not firmly rooted in Scripture.

Historical Context and Church Writings

Various early Church Fathers wrote commentaries on end-times events, such as Hippolytus of Rome and Irenaeus of Lyons, but none referenced a list of future popes leading to the end of the world. Medieval writers like Joachim of Fiore speculated broadly about the world’s future but did not link their expectations to a specific set of papal successions.

St. Malachy’s authentic writings (such as a handful of letters and liturgical reforms) focus more on spiritual renewal than eschatological prophecy. The “Prophecy of the Popes,” therefore, stands outside his recognized body of work. Although it captivates the imagination, its place lies more in the realm of legend and speculation than in undisputed historical documentation.

Standpoints on Prophecy and Salvation

• The Bible’s Emphasis on God’s Sovereignty: Scripture underscores that God alone is omniscient and sovereign over the course of history (Isaiah 46:9–10). While He uses prophets (2 Peter 1:21), He has primarily revealed Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:1–2).

• Christ as the Central Point: The central figure of biblical eschatology is Jesus, through whom believers receive salvation (1 Timothy 2:5). Whether or not an extra-biblical prophecy about popes seems accurate, Scripture points believers to rely on Christ’s saving work and resurrection as the pivot of history and redemptive plan.

• Testing All Things: 1 Thessalonians 5:21 advises believers to “test all things.” Historical claims, philosophical drafts, or purported prophecies need to be weighed against Scripture. The reliability of Scripture as the inerrant Word remains a foundational point that surpasses ecclesiastical speculations.

Archaeological, Historical, and Manuscript Knowledge

For centuries, biblical manuscripts have held up under intense scrutiny (e.g., the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls confirming transmission accuracy). These archaeological and historical findings reinforce the trustworthiness of Scripture. In contrast, St. Malachy’s prophecy lacks similar documentary support. No early manuscripts confirm it, highlighting a stark difference between tested biblical documents and later works with unclear origins.

Perspective on Future Popes

In Catholic tradition, the pope is recognized as the Bishop of Rome and a spiritual leader. Regardless of St. Malachy’s alleged predictions, the New Testament does not hinge its teaching about end times on the identity or number of popes. Instead, Christians are called to “keep watch” (Matthew 24:42) for Christ’s return.

Whether future popes align with a specific motto is inconsequential to the ultimate outcome revealed in Scripture: God’s established timeline, culminating in Christ’s second coming. Non-biblical prophecies, if entertained at all, should serve as a reminder to cling to God’s Word and remain vigilant, rather than providing a rigid timetable for the final events of history.

Conclusion

St. Malachy’s “Prophecy of the Popes” has generated centuries of speculation about the future of the papacy and the conclusion of human history. Yet, historical evidence raises serious doubts about its origin, and it retains no recognized standing in official Church doctrine. While the prophecy offers intriguing mottos that some seek to match with individual pontiffs, it stands apart from the reliable foundation found in Scripture, which alone is “God-breathed and . . . useful for instruction” (2 Timothy 3:16).

Accordingly, any study of the end times or future leadership in the Church should begin and end with Scripture. Christians look to Christ’s resurrection as the bedrock of faith—“He is not here; He has risen!” (Luke 24:6)—and celebrate the promise of His eventual return. Whether there are future popes whose titles fulfill this medieval prophecy does not alter the believer’s calling to “seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33).