The Meaning of Non Nobis Solum

Latin Non nobis solum meaning Not for ourselves alone ideal that stand throughout the ages of doing good towards mankind. This phrase — which has become a motto for schools, institutions and organisations the world over— implies that our lives should be led in the service of humanity.

Non nobis solum is often traced to Cicero, the Roman statesman and philosopher who wrote, “Non nobis solum nati sumus,” or in English, “Not for ourselves alone are we born.” This idea is a longstanding factor of Roman philosophy and ethics where the obligation of the individual was connected to that of the community. It was Cicero who said his words inspired us to think of ourselves as contributing threads in a community fabric, and how we should all aim to work toward seeing others happy and well.

In fact, over the centuries, Non nobis solum has been used as a rallying cry by schools, charities and community organizations alike. More often than not, it appears engraved in logos/crests/banners commonly within the school settings and serves as a reminder to many students about their calling to serve the community. The phrase inspires people to share their skills and talents not only for self-growth but also in serving society positively.

In contemporary usage, Non nobis solum is a rallying cry for idealists seeking to create an environment of goodwill that encourages empathy, social responsibility and public service. This phrase, applicable to philanthropy, social work or any person's daily actions of kindness toward others calls on them to be childlike in their discontent for profit and the self-interested preservation of wealth by using the talents they have within themselves for a higher purpose and service held individually information for all as when you succeed others with tend to reach success thus reinforcing this notion that human beings can only survive through each other.