Nihil obstat, Latin for "nothing hinders," is a crucial step in the Catholic Church's canonization process. It signifies that a Church investigation into the life and writings of a candidate for sainthood has found no theological objections to proceeding. This occurs at a recognized stage in the process, after extensive examination of evidence of holiness. The nihil obstat is not a declaration of sainthood itself; it simply clears the way for further steps. Only after many more stages, including rigorous review and a declaration by the Pope, can someone be officially declared a saint. The nihil obstat ensures the process maintains doctrinal integrity before moving to the next phase.