The New New Age
Our Lady of Sorrows Painting
Our Lady of Sorrows, also known as the Sorrowful Mother or Mater Dolorosa in Latin, is a title given to Mary, the mother of Jesus. It refers to her deep sorrow and grief during the events leading up to and including the crucifixion of her son.
According to Christian tradition, there are seven sorrows or seven dolors that Mary endured throughout her life. These include:
- Prophecy of Simeon: When Jesus was presented in the temple, Simeon prophesized to Mary that a sword would pierce her heart.
- Flight into Egypt: To protect baby Jesus from King Herod's decree to kill all newborn boys, Mary and Joseph had to flee to Egypt.
- Loss of Jesus in the Temple: When Jesus was twelve years old, he went missing during a trip to Jerusalem, causing great distress for Mary and Joseph.
- Meeting Jesus on the Way of the Cross: This is often depicted in religious art as Mary meeting her son carrying his cross.
- Crucifixion and Death of Jesus: Mary stood at the foot of the cross as her son was crucified, fulfilling Simeon's prophecy.
- Taking Down Jesus from the Cross: After Jesus died, Mary held his lifeless body in her arms.
- Burial of Jesus: The sorrow of burying her own son must have been overwhelming for Mary.
These seven sorrows represent not only the physical and emotional pain that Mary endured, but also her unwavering faith and trust in God's plan. She remained strong and resolute in the face of great suffering, showing us how to bear our own crosses with grace.
Our Lady of Sorrows is often depicted in religious art as a woman dressed in mourning clothes, with seven swords piercing her heart. This symbolizes her deep and unending grief, but also her great compassion and empathy for others who suffer.
In Catholicism, the feast day of Our Lady of Sorrows is celebrated on September 15th. This day is dedicated to honoring Mary's sorrows and seeking her intercession for comfort in our own times of sorrow.
The devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone. Mary, as a mother who experienced great sorrow and suffering, understands our pain and stands ready to comfort and guide us. We can turn to her in prayer for strength and solace, knowing that she is always there for us. So let us honor Our Lady of Sorrows, the mother of compassion and grace, and seek her guidance and comfort in our times of need. So let us strive to follow her example, remaining faithful and trusting in God's plan no matter what hardships we may face. For through our own sorrows and struggles, we can find renewed strength, hope, and ultimately, salvation.
20"H x 16"L x 2"W
Acrylic and oil on wood