Magnificat: Mary’s Song

The Magnificat: Mary’s Song

Introduction

The Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) is a hymn sung by Mary during her visit to Elizabeth. It is one of the most beautiful passages in the New Testament and the quintessential Marian poem. For a comprehensive article, see: Magnificat: The Song of Mary

Structure and Content

The Magnificat has three distinct parts: (1) Mary’s personal praise to God who has regarded her humility. (2) A declaration of God’s holiness and mercy. (3) A revolutionary song, “He has brought down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty-handed.”

Place in Liturgy

The Magnificat is sung at Vespers (the evening prayer) in the Divine Office, recited daily by the Church. It is framed by its own antiphons appropriate to the liturgical season. The community stands for the Magnificat, just as they do for the Gospel, as a sign of respect.

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Church Teaching

> “Magnificat anima mea Dominum, et exsultavit spiritus meus in Deo salvatore meo, quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae. Ecce enim ex hoc beatam me dicent omnes generationes.” (Luke 1:46-48 – Vulgata Clementina, Canticle of Mary)Translation: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the humility of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed.”The Magnificat is Mary’s song, the Messianic song, the song of the poor and humble, the song of the pilgrim Church.Translation: “The Magnificat is the song of Mary, the Messianic song, the song of the poor and humble, the song of the Church in pilgrimage.”