There's Something About Mary

Here are 10 things you might not have realized about this very special lady!

- Mimi Tiu

The Mother of God. That’s a pretty hefty job description—and only someone truly remarkable would have been chosen for such an honor. From all the women across space and time, Mary was deemed worthy of this herculean task. My Pope takes a closer look at some of the truths behind her story.

1 BEHIND THE NAME

Did you know that her name means “sea of sorrow?” Mary is derived from the Hebrew name Miriam, and the name seems fitting seeing as Mary suffered hardships as she bore Jesus Christ and witnessed His ministry. Another common definition is “wished-for child,” which also corresponds to Mary’s own long-awaited conception (more on that later!). In Aramaic, the name Miryàm means “loved by God”—another apt description for Mama Mary. Women the world over are named in her honor, as Maria, Mara, Marie, and even Malia are variations of Mary. In the Philippines, we even have the abbreviation “Ma.” For us, this is used when Maria is added on before a given name.

2 MARY’S PARENTS

The apocryphal Gospel of James reveals Mary’s infancy and upbringing. Written in 145 AD, it is not included in the Bible, but early Christians regarded it as scripture. The Proto evangelium of James cites Joachim and Anne as the Blessed Virgin’s parents—both of whom were descendants of King David. Joachim’s name means “he whom Yahweh has set up,” while Anne originates from the Hebrew name Hannah, which signifies “favor” or “grace.” Gifted with the life of Mary, Joachim and Anne really did receive one of God’s biggest blessings!

3 ANSWERED PRAYER