What is declared by Pope Boniface's Bull Unam Sanctam?

Pope Boniface VIII's Bull Unam Sanctam, issued in 1302, is a significant document that asserts theSupreme authority of the Pope in spiritual matters. The key declaration made in Unam Sanctam is that every human being, without exception, is subject to the authority of the Pope for their salvation. This reflects the central idea of the Roman Catholic belief in the necessity of papal intercession and the belief that the Church, as represented by the Pope, serves as the medium through which grace is bestowed and salvation is attained.

This idea not only consolidates the Pope's religious authority but also emphasizes the belief that temporal rulers are subordinate to the spiritual authority of the Church. In this context, the Bull would naturally challenge any views that suggest that secular authority can operate independently of or above ecclesiastical judgment since it reaffirms the papacy's supremacy in spiritual matters over all people, including monarchs and political leaders.