-Via, Veritas, Vita: A Reflection on the Silliman University Motto-

Silliman University has been famous for its Latin motto “Via, Veritas, Vita” which means “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” This motto reflects the Christian nature of Silliman education as its words personally came from the mouth of Jesus Christ when he uttered “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” (John 14:6). The institution wants its constituents to understand and value the meaning of this motto towards the improvement of their quality of life.

Jesus as the Way signifies that his plans and will rule over us. We are guided in a path where we strive to achieve the holistic meaning and purpose of our existence. Through God’s love, we are bestowed with grace of salvation and guidance to break free from the path towards sin and evil. Silliman University seeks to nurture individuals who are leading their career and character with humility and competence.

Jesus as the Truth means that his words are powerful. Everything he says is for the good of all things. Propaganda and lies were never in Jesus’ vocabulary. This truth allows us to have a genuine social consciousness in order to take action on the issues that need to be addressed. In the light of his truth, we are blessed with confidence to stand for what we know is right.

Jesus as the Life is associated with his death as a means to redeem humanity from sins. When he died, we were given a renewed life to come back to God’s embrace and providence. Anyone who believes in him will have eternal life as the Scriptures states (John 3:16). Each of us is gifted by God with a chance to see the beauty of the world and experience the things that mold our being. Thus, everyone lives before Him.

In conclusion, Silliman University, together with its motto, aspires to produce people who have found their Way to God, who accepted the Truth of God, and who live a Life with God.