The color traditionally associated with Mary, the mother of Jesus, is blue. This is because blue has been a symbol of purity, humility, and devotion since ancient times, and Mary has long been revered as the epitome of these virtues. In Christian art, Mary is often depicted wearing a blue cloak or robe, and blue flowers such as lilies and forget-me-nots are often used to symbolize her. The association of Mary with blue can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when artists began to depict her in this way, and it has remained a popular and enduring tradition in Christian art and devotion ever since.
What is the Marian symbol?
There are many symbols associated with Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Christian art and devotion. Here are some of the most common Marian symbols:
1. The Immaculate Conception: This is the doctrine that Mary was conceived free from original sin, and is often symbolized by a serpent being crushed under her feet.
2. The Annunciation: This is the event when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive and bear a son, and is often symbolized by a lily or an angel holding a lily.
3. The Nativity: This is the birth of Jesus and is often symbolized by a manger or a star.
4. The Assumption: This is the doctrine of Mary's assumption into heaven, body and soul, and is often symbolized by Mary being lifted into the clouds by angels.
5. The Rosary: This is a prayer that involves the repetition of certain prayers and the meditation on certain mysteries of the life of Christ and Mary.
Why does Mary wear blue and red?
Blue and red are two of the most commonly used colors in images of Mary, and they each have different symbolic meanings.
Blue has been associated with Mary since medieval times and is often used to represent her purity, humility, and devotion. Blue also has a spiritual significance in Christianity, as it is associated with heaven and the divine. In Christian art, Mary is often depicted wearing a blue cloak or robe, and blue flowers such as lilies and forget-me-nots are often used to symbolize her.
Red, on the other hand, is often used to represent the passion and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, Mary's son. In some depictions of Mary, she is shown wearing a red mantle or robe, symbolizing her role as the mother of Christ and her own suffering and sacrifice.
Sometimes Mary is shown wearing both blue and red together, which can be seen as a representation of her dual role as both a mother and a follower of Christ. The blue represents her purity and devotion.
