Do ut des

The vocabulary of ancient Roman religion was highly specialized. Its study affords important information about the religion, traditions and beliefs of the ancient Romans. This legacy is conspicuous in European cultural history in its influence on later juridical and religious vocabulary in Europe, particularly of the Christian Church. This glossary provides explanations of concepts as they were expressed in Latin pertaining to religious practices and beliefs, with links to articles on major topics such as priesthoods, forms of divination, and rituals.

For theonyms, or the names and epithets of gods, see List of Roman deities. For public religious holidays, see Roman festivals. For temples see the List of Ancient Roman temples. Individual landmarks of religious topography in ancient Rome are not included in this list; see Roman temple.

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“Do ut des” is a Latin phrase meaning ”I give, so that you may give.” It describes a reciprocal relationship where a gift or offering is given with the expectation of a return gift or favor. This concept is prevalent in ancient Roman religion and law, where it often referred to votive offerings or contractual agreements. 

In more detail:

• Meaning:

  The phrase literally translates to “I give that you may give,” according to Brill. It highlights the principle of reciprocity, where one party’s action is contingent upon the other party’s reciprocation. 

• Ancient Roman Context:

  • Religion: In ancient Roman religion, “do ut des” was a common formula used in votive offerings. Individuals would offer gifts to gods or deities with the expectation that the gods would reciprocate with blessings or favorable outcomes. 
  • Law: The phrase also described a type of innominate contract in Roman law, where the performance of one party was the condition for the other party’s performance. 

• Modern Applications:

  The concept of “do ut des” extends beyond ancient times and can be seen in various contexts, including:

  • Gift-giving: The idea of reciprocity in gift-giving, where a gift is given with the expectation of a return, can be seen as a modern manifestation of “do ut des”. 

  • Negotiations: In negotiations, parties may offer concessions with the expectation of receiving something in return, reflecting the principle of reciprocity. 

  • Art and Culture: Artist Mariana Castillo Deball uses the phrase “do ut des” in her work to explore themes of historical research, cultural memory, and the reciprocal relationship between the past and the present, according to KADIST. 

• Reciprocity in Relationships:

  The concept emphasizes the importance of mutual exchange and obligation in relationships, whether between individuals or between humans and deities.