Under Your Protection: The Oldest Prayer to Mary

Sub tuum praesidium: The Oldest Prayer to Mary

Text and History

The Sub Tuum Praesidium (“Under Your Protection”) is the oldest known Christian prayer to Mary that has survived to our times. Discovered on an Egyptian papyrus in 1917, it dates back to likely the 3rd century, predating any documented Marian devotion. For a comprehensive article: [Sub Tuum Praesidium](/).The original Greek text reads: “Under Your protection we flee, holy Mother of God. Do not spurn our supplications in our needs, but deliver us from all dangers, O glorious and blessed Virgin.” This text employs the title *Theotokos* (Mother of God) two centuries before its dogmatic definition at the Council of Ephesus (431), underscoring the antiquity of Marian faith.

Historical Significance

The discovery of this papyrus (John Rylands Library, Manchester, P. Rylands 470) confirmed that Marian devotion is not a medieval invention but dates back to the earliest centuries of Christianity. Early Christians in Egypt in the 3rd century already prayed to Mary as *Theotokos*, seeking her protection.

Liturgical Use

The Sub Tuum Praesidium is part of the Divine Office during Advent and Lent. It is recited in both Eastern and Western Churches, in Latin and vernacular languages. Its brevity and depth make it one of the purest and theologically richest Marian prayers.Explore further: Delve into Mariology, Theology Mariana, Marian Apparitions, and Post-Graduate Studies in Mariology.—

Church Teaching

> We flee to You for protection, holy Mother of God. Do not spurn our supplications in our needs, but deliver us from all dangers, O glorious and blessed Virgin. (Antiphona *Sub Tuum Praesidium*, 3rd century, papyrus graecus Rylandensis 470)