- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Knox College
Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms
December 15, 2003
Vol. IV, p. 337
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Per saltire Argent and Purpure, in chief a terrestrial globe Azure its lines of latitude and longitude Argent, in base a bush enflamed proper;
Crest
An open book Argent bound Purpure irradiated Or;
Motto
VERBUM DAT LUCEM;
Arms
Authorized usage of the Arms of Knox College: The Arms surmounting an open book Argent bound Purpure;
Symbolism
Arms
Purple and white are the colours of the College, and the globe and burning bush have been long used by Knox College as symbols. The burning bush, from the Book of Exodus, is the traditional symbol of Presbyterianism. The globe indicates the worldwide reach of Christianity and the work of the College. The blue and white of the globe are the colours of the University of Toronto. The X division is indicative of the Cross of St. Andrew, the Patron Saint of Scotland.
Crest
The crest repeats the colours of the arms. The book represents the Bible, the rays a traditional way of indicating its sacred character. The crest thus makes a direct connection with the motto (a feature of Scottish heraldry). The irradiated book appeared on an old emblem of the College.
Motto
This Latin phrase means “The word gives light.” It refers to the crest, and it emphasizes the key role of the Bible in Christian life and education.
Arms
The book is another reference to the Bible, and this particular way of depicting the arms reinforces the idea that the work of the College is based on and supported by the Word of God.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 12, 2005, in Volume 139, page 687 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Roger Lindsay, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority
Painter
Gordon Macpherson
Calligrapher
Karen Mackay
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
University Faculty, Department & College