“You say that you are my judge; I do not know if you are; but take good heed not to judge me ill, because you would put yourself in great peril.”
- c. 1412 – May 30, 1431
- French
- Military leader, Martyr, Saint of the Roman Catholic Church
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Quote
“You say that you are my judge; I do not know if you are; but take good heed not to judge me ill, because you would put yourself in great peril.”
Explanation
This quote reveals Joan of Arc’s bold challenge to the legitimacy of her ecclesiastical judges, delivered during her trial for heresy. Her words are not merely defiant—they are grounded in her belief that her true judge is God, not the tribunal that seeks to condemn her. By warning them of “great peril,” she suggests that condemning an innocent soul chosen by God carries spiritual consequences, not just legal ones.
Historically, Joan was tried by a pro-English church court in Rouen, led by Bishop Pierre Cauchon, whose authority she did not recognize. Joan’s response reflects her understanding that the court was politically motivated and lacked true moral or divine authority. This statement is a remarkable assertion of spiritual autonomy in an era where defying clerical judgment was considered both dangerous and blasphemous. Her courage in confronting her accusers directly underscores her moral clarity and theological confidence.
In modern contexts, this quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity and the dangers of unjust authority. It speaks to anyone facing biased or corrupt judgment, whether in courtrooms, workplaces, or social systems. Joan’s warning—spoken calmly but with deep conviction—reminds us that judging others without righteousness or fairness can carry consequences not just for the judged, but for the judge. It is a call to uphold justice with humility and reverence for truth.
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