Dormition

Dormition is a term used in Eastern Christian churches to refer to the "falling asleep" death of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her subsequent bodily assumption into heaven. The term contrasts with the Western designation "Assumption" used in much of Catholic tradition; both refer to Mary's departure from earthly life and her exaltation, but the theological emphasis and naming differ by tradition. The Dormition is celebrated on August 15 in many Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and some Eastern Catholic churches, under the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos.

According to tradition, Mary died peacefully, and her apostles or companions witnessed the event. Then, according to various narratives, her soul was received by Christ and her body was either transliterated or carried to heaven; in some versions, the tomb was found empty. The stories vary, and no single biblical account exists.

In liturgical terms, the feast features special services, vigils, and hymns in the Eastern rites, often including the blessing of water in some places. In the Catholic Church, the equivalent event is the Assumption of Mary, a dogma proclaimed in 1950 by Pope Pius XII, celebrated on August 15; the Catholic usage uses the term Assumption rather than Dormition, though the two are related concepts.

The doctrine has shaped Marian devotion, iconography, and church art, with many icons depicting the Dormition and the Transitus. It is a central feast in the liturgical calendar of the Orthodox and many other Eastern Christian communities and has influenced ecumenical dialogue on Marian theology.