Ever heard the phrase 'sub rosa'? It sounds mysterious, doesn't it? Literally meaning 'under the rose' in Latin, 'sub rosa' historically signified secrecy or confidentiality. Think secret societies whispering plans beneath a rose emblem, or clandestine deals struck behind closed doors.
But why a rose? The association with secrecy dates back centuries. Some believe it stems from ancient Roman mythology, where Cupid gave a rose to Harpocrates, the god of silence, to keep Venus's indiscretions quiet. Others point to medieval times when roses were often carved above confessionals, symbolizing the sanctity and privacy of the sacrament.
Today, 'sub rosa' isn't as commonly used in everyday conversation, but its essence remains. It implies something is happening discreetly, perhaps even on the hush-hush. So, next time you encounter a situation that feels a little clandestine, remember the rose. It might just be a 'sub rosa' affair.
