The archaic phrase signifies “so be it” or “may it be.” It expresses acceptance, agreement, or a wish for something to come to pass. An example would be its use as a concluding statement to a prayer or decree, indicating a desire for the content to be realized.
Historically, the expression provided a sense of finality and solemnity to pronouncements. Its use imbued the speaker’s words with authority and reinforced the idea of an unchangeable outcome. The phrase conveyed a willingness to accept the consequences or implications of the statement it concluded.
