So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done – Meaning & Origin

If you’ve even been instructed to do something with the phrase “so let it be written, so let it be done”, you may wonder three things. Firstly, what era did you wake up in? Secondly, is that a Bible verse? Thirdly, what on earth does that mean?

So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done – Meaning

The phrase “so let it be written, so let it be done” essentially means that a written order is set in stone and must be carried out. This phrase may be used in relation to a pharaoh’s commands, which were put in writing by scribes and carried out.

In modern times, you are unlikely to hear the phrase “so let it be written, so let it be done” in casual or even formal conversation.

This may be because there are many other, less flowery ways to get across both the literal and figurative meanings of the phrase.

For example, the phrase literally means “I have given this instruction. I want it in writing and for it to be carried out by any means necessary”. Sure, it doesn’t roll off the tongue as well, but it’s certainly less open for interpretation.

Figuratively, the phrase can simply refer to legislation and laws in a society. Or, by implication, it may simply mean that once an authority has issued an instruction, even verbally, it is as good as law and must be carried out.

So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done – Origin

The phrase “so let it be written, so let it be done” is a movie quote that comes from the 1956 film, The Ten Commandments by Cecil B de Mille. It was uttered by a character in the film, Rameses II, who was believed to be the Pharaoh of Egypt during the time of Exodus in the Bible.

Rameses II does not actually make an express appearance in the Bible, but it is believed by many historians that he would have been a leader during the time of the biblical plagues in Egypt.

Nevertheless, “so let it be written, so let it be done” is not a Bible verse, nor was it the real Rameses II who said this quote. It is but a touch of creative license from the screenplay writers!

Phrases That Mean the Opposite of “So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done”

Since the phrase “so let it be written, so let it be done” means to write something down and then carry it out, any antonym of this phrase would just say the opposite:

• Don’t write that down. Also, don’t do it.
• So let it be uttered, so let it be ignored.

Correct Ways to Say “So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done”

“So let it be written, so let it be done” means that a given order must be written down and carried out by any means necessary. Here are some alternate, but correct, ways to say the phrase:

• As it is written, so it shall be done.
• Let it be written, let it be done.
• So it is written, so it shall be done.
• Write that down and then get on with it.

Incorrect Ways to Use “So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done”

Since the phrase “so let it be written, so let it be done” is a movie quote and not a Bible verse, it should not be quoted when referencing the Bible.

• The Bible itself says “so let it be written, so let it be done”. That means we must follow the commandments written in the Bible.

The phrase “let it be done” means that the instruction must be carried out. It does not mean that once something is written, you’re finished.

• He said, “so let it be written, so let it be done”. So, I assume he just wants me to write it down and then I can clock out for the day.

In What Situations Can You Use “So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done”?

You can use the phrase “so let it be written, so let it be done” if you are an authority figure and want to be flowery and formal when issuing an instruction. You can also use it when quoting Rameses II from the film The Ten Commandments.