Accepimus

Accepimus is a Latin phrase meaning "we accept" or "we receive," derived from the first-person plural present active indicative form of the verb accipere ("to receive"). This term is often used in legal, historical, and theological contexts, particularly in Latin-language documents and writings.

In legal history, accepimus appears in various treaties and agreements, often signifying mutual acceptance or acknowledgment of terms. For example, it was used in the Treaty of Westphalia (1648) and other diplomatic documents to denote consent or ratification. In canon law, the phrase was sometimes employed to formalize the reception of ecclesiastical privileges or rights.

Theologically, accepimus is frequently found in early Christian writings, such as the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles of Paul, where it reflects the acceptance of divine grace or the reception of sacred traditions. In the context of the Eucharist, it appears in liturgical texts, symbolizing the acceptance of Christ’s body and blood.

While not as widely used today as in antiquity, accepimus remains a significant linguistic and historical marker, illustrating the enduring influence of Latin in formal and religious discourse. Its precise meaning can vary depending on the context, but it consistently conveys a sense of acknowledgment, consent, or reception.