What Does the Expression “When in Rome Do as the Romans Do” Mean and Where Did it Come From?

If you wish to gain esteem and avoid grief, then it’s wise to respect the customs of the majority within any culture you may find yourself.

When St. Ambrose was sent on a mission to Rome by St. Augustine, he was concerned about which holy day to observe since the Romans fasted on a different day than was his custom.

St. Augustine’s wise advice is still with us: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”