Topical Encyclopedia The Magnificat, also known as the Song of Mary, is a hymn of praise found in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 1:46-55. This canticle is one of the most ancient and revered hymns in Christian liturgy and is traditionally recited or sung during the liturgical services of many Christian denominations, particularly in the context of evening prayers such as Vespers in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican traditions.Biblical Context The Magnificat is spoken by Mary, the mother of Jesus, during her visit to Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. Upon Mary's arrival, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaims with joy and blesses Mary and the child she carries. In response, Mary offers this profound hymn of praise to God, expressing her deep faith and humility. Text of the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) 46 And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. 48 For He has looked with favor on the humble state of His servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed. 49 For the Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is His name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation. 51 He has performed mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who are proud in the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones, but has exalted the humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, but has sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped His servant Israel, remembering to be merciful, 55 as He promised to our fathers, to Abraham and his descendants forever.” Theological Significance The Magnificat is rich in theological themes, reflecting Mary's deep understanding of God's covenantal promises and His faithfulness to Israel. It echoes the Old Testament, particularly the Song of Hannah (1 Samuel 2:1-10), and highlights God's preferential option for the humble and the oppressed. Mary's song celebrates God's mighty deeds and His mercy, emphasizing the reversal of worldly status: the proud are scattered, rulers are dethroned, and the humble are exalted. Mary's Role and Humility Mary's declaration, "My soul magnifies the Lord," underscores her role as a willing and humble servant of God. Her acknowledgment of God's favor upon her, despite her lowly status, exemplifies the virtue of humility. Mary's recognition that "all generations will call me blessed" points to her unique role in salvation history as the mother of the Messiah, yet she attributes all glory to God, the "Mighty One" who has done great things for her. God's Faithfulness and Mercy The Magnificat emphasizes God's enduring mercy and faithfulness to His covenant people. Mary's reference to God's promises to Abraham and his descendants highlights the continuity of God's salvific plan through the ages. The hymn reflects the hope and fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in the coming of Jesus Christ, the Savior. Liturgical Use In Christian liturgy, the Magnificat is often recited or sung as part of the daily prayers, particularly in the evening. Its use in worship underscores the themes of praise, humility, and God's redemptive work, inviting believers to join Mary in magnifying the Lord and rejoicing in His salvation. The Magnificat remains a powerful testament to God's transformative power and His unwavering commitment to His people, inspiring generations of Christians to live in faith and humility. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The song of the Virgin Mary, Luke i. 46; -- so called because it commences with this word in the Vulgate.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAGNIFICATmag-nif'-i-kat: The name given to the hymn of Mary in Luke 1:46-55, commencing "My soul doth magnify the Lord." Three old Latin manuscripts substitute the name "Elisabeth" for "Mary" in 1:46, but against this is the authority of all Greek manuscripts and other Latin versions. The hymn, modeled in part on that of Hannah in 1 Samuel 2:1;, is peculiarly suitable to the circumstances of Mary, and plainly could not have been composed after the actual appearance and resurrection of Christ. Its early date is thus manifest. Library The Magnificat Responses after the "Magnificat" The Drunkard's Magnificat C. The "Magnificat. " Ch. 1:39-56 The Version Given Below is the Simple Setting. Hymns of Praise and Worship. Introduction. The Blessed virgin Holy Saturday Music Vindication of Christian Women. Thesaurus Magnificat... (n.) The song of the Virgin Mary, Luke i. 46; -- so called because it commences with this word in the Vulgate. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MAGNIFICAT. ... /m/magnificat.htm - 7k Magnificence (9 Occurrences) Magnifical Zacharias (11 Occurrences) Psychology Worship (332 Occurrences) Bread (433 Occurrences) Woman (4043 Occurrences) Poetry Resources What is the Magnificat? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Luke | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about music? | GotQuestions.org Magnificat: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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