magnificat

The Magnificat, also known as the Song of Mary, is a canticle from the New Testament, attributed to Mary and recorded in Luke 1:46–55. It is Mary’s praise to God following the Annunciation and is one of the oldest Marian hymns in Christian tradition. The text has played a central role in Western liturgy and devotional life for centuries.

Text and themes: The Magnificat begins with Mary declaring that her soul glorifies the Lord and that God has regarded her humble state. It extols divine mercy, justice, and faithfulness, and it speaks of God’sEPROM reversal of social fortunes, the salvation promised to Israel, and the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham. Common themes include humility, mercy toward the lowly, and the transformation of history through God’s intervention.

Liturgical use: In Western Christian worship, the Magnificat is used as a canticle in the daily Liturgy of the Hours (Lauds and Vespers) and is often recited or sung during morning and evening prayer. It is associated with Advent in particular but is also present in various other liturgical contexts across Catholic, Anglican, and some Protestant traditions.

Musical and cultural significance: The Magnificat has inspired an extensive body of music. Notable settings include Baroque choral works by Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi, as well as later compositions by composers such as John Rutter and Arvo Pärt. Beyond music, the text has influenced art, literature, and devotional practices, reinforcing its status as a foundational Christian hymn of praise.