Magnificat
“Magnifies (from 'My soul magnifies the Lord')”
Summary
The Magnificat is Mary's hymn of praise recorded in Luke's Gospel, named from its opening word in Latin ('My soul magnifies the Lord'), and widely used in Christian liturgy since the early centuries.
☩The Song of Mary
When Mary visited her relative Elisabeth and received Elisabeth's Spirit-filled greeting, she responded with this magnificent hymn of praise. The song echoes Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 2, celebrating God's faithfulness to His promises, His mercy to the humble, and His mighty acts in salvation history. Mary rejoices that God has 'regarded the low estate of his handmaiden' and that 'all generations shall call her blessed.'
☩Liturgical Use
The Magnificat was introduced into Christian worship around AD 506 and became a standard part of the evening service in Roman Catholic, Lutheran, and Anglican churches. In the Eastern Church it appears in the morning prayers; in the Western Church, particularly since the time of Gregory the Great, it has been assigned to the vesper (evening) service. It celebrates the fulfillment of God's promises and Mary's thanksgiving for divine grace.
Related Verses1 mention
Luke· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Magnificat," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. V (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Hastings (ed.), "Magnificat," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).