Theotokos

Theotokos is a Greek title meaning “God-bearer” or “Birth-giver of God.” It is applied to Mary, the mother of Jesus, to affirm that Jesus is true God and true man from the moment of conception, and that Mary bore the incarnate God in human flesh.

The term became central in early Christian controversy over the nature of Christ. It was affirmed at the Council of Ephesus in 431, which rejected the idea that Mary should be called only Christotokos, or “Christ-bearer.” Theotokos emphasizes the unity of Jesus’ divine and human natures in one person and safeguards the doctrine of the Incarnation. The title does not imply Mary is divine; rather, it asserts her role as the mother of the divine Word made flesh.

In contemporary theology, Theotokos is widely used in Eastern Orthodox and Catholic traditions. It is also found in some Anglican and other Protestant contexts, though usage varies, and many denominations prefer phrases such as “Mary, Mother of Jesus.” The term is central to Marian devotion and is reflected in liturgy and iconography, where the Theotokos is often depicted with the infant Jesus, highlighting the mystery of God becoming human.

Feasts and hymns honoring Mary under this title appear in various calendars, such as the Nativity of the Theotokos on September 8 in the Orthodox Church and the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God on January 1 in the Catholic Church.