Harvard University is one of the most famous private research universities in the United States and one of the top higher education institutions in the world. Its school motto has experienced the evolution from religious autocracy to the light of truth, and witnessed the historical changes of American society.

Interaction between reason and revelation

The early seal of Harvard shows three open books, symbolizing the interaction between reason and enlightenment. This kind of interaction is the core of Harvard education and an important part of Harvard motto.

School motto in the period of religious autocracy

Harvard's early school motto originated from the religious autocracy before the founding of the United States, when all British colonies in North America had legal religions. These school mottos include "Truth", "Glory to Christ" and "For Christ and for the Church", which reflected the religious atmosphere of the society at that time.

Students' main goals

One of Harvard's earliest documents wrote: "Let every student seriously consider knowing God and Jesus Christ as the source of eternal life as his main goal in life and study." This goal reflected the religious nature of Harvard education at that time and was also an important part of Harvard motto.

The Realization of Freedom of Religious Belief

After the founding of the United States, freedom of religious belief was realized, and the motto of Harvard University was finally determined as "truth". This motto embodies the modernity and openness of Harvard education, and is also an important symbol of Harvard University's leading position in American higher education.