Pope Francis described money as "excrement of the devil" in a documentary series exploring the nature of currency.
The statement highlights the Vatican's ongoing critique of global financial systems and the moral dangers associated with the pursuit of wealth. By framing money in such stark terms, the Pope emphasizes the spiritual risks of prioritizing material gain over human dignity.
The remarks appear in the series "Money," produced by Arte [1]. The series consists of 12 episodes [2] that examine currency in its various forms. According to the publication La Croix, the Pope said he invoked the Church Fathers to support his criticism of the moral and social implications of money [3].
In the documentary, the Pope's phrase "d’excrément du diable" serves as a focal point for discussions on how currency can corrupt human nature [1]. The series explores the transition of money from a tool of exchange to an object of obsession. Philosopher Frédéric Gros said that a "fétichi," or fetish, is being formed around the concept of money [4].
The production seeks to analyze how the pursuit of wealth affects societal structures and individual ethics. The series remains available for viewing until July 1, 2031 [5].
This critique aligns with the Pope's broader efforts to address economic inequality and the influence of unregulated capital on the poor. By referencing early Church teachings, he connects modern financial struggles to historical theological warnings about greed.
“Pope Francis described money as "excrement of the devil."”
This rhetoric signals a continued effort by the papacy to challenge the 'culture of waste' and the idolization of capital. By using provocative language, the Vatican aims to shift the conversation from the technical management of money to the moral responsibility of those who possess it, framing financial greed as a spiritual ailment rather than a mere economic preference.
