Marian References In The Holy Bible

The Church recognizes several Old Testament verses as referring to the Mother of Jesus, the Virgin Mary. One of the most prominent is Isaiah 7:14, which states, "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." This verse is understood by Catholics to foretell the birth of Jesus, who was born of the Virgin Mary.

Another Old Testament verse that is understood to refer to Mary is found in the Book of Jeremiah, chapter 31, verse 22, which states, "The Lord has created a new thing on the earth: a woman encircles a man." This verse is interpreted by Catholics as a prophecy of the unique relationship between Mary and Jesus, as she was both mother and spiritual companion to him.

The Protoevangelium of James, written around 150 CE, which is not in the canon of the Bible but is considered as apocryphal text by the Catholic Church, gives more insights on the role and character of Mary. This text highlights Mary's role as the new Eve, the mother of all the living, and as the Ark of the Covenant, the vessel through which God's presence dwells among his people.

The Magnificat, the canticle of Mary, found in Luke 1:46-55, is another important text that refers to Mary. This passage is the hymn of thanksgiving that Mary sang when she visited her cousin Elizabeth, who was pregnant with John the Baptist. This passage is significant because it highlights Mary's humility and faith in God, and her understanding of her role as the mother of Jesus.

In conclusion, the Church recognizes several Old Testament verses as referring to the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. These verses include Isaiah 7:14, Jeremiah 31:22, and the Magnificat in Luke 1:46-55. The Protoevangelium of James also gives a deeper understanding of Mary's role in salvation history and her character as the new Eve, the mother of all the living, and the Ark of the Covenant.