Mary and the Ark of the Covenant: A Theological and Historical Exploration
1. Introduction: The Sacred Vessels - The Ark and Mary
The Ark of the Covenant stands as the most sacred object in the Old Testament for the Israelites, a meticulously crafted chest that symbolized the very presence of God and the covenant He established with His chosen people.1 This ornate receptacle, housed within the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, served as a tangible link between the divine and the earthly realm, representing the heart of Israel's faith and its unique relationship with God.2 Its construction was divinely ordained, following specific instructions given to Moses, and it held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, the foundational text of the covenant.1 From above the Ark, God's voice was believed to emanate, addressing Moses and guiding the nation.3
In the New Testament, the Virgin Mary emerges as a central figure in Christianity, revered as the Mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.5 Her role in Christian theology is unparalleled, as she was chosen by God to conceive and bear the Messiah, holding a unique and elevated place within the narrative of salvation.6 The Incarnation, the core Christian belief that God became human in Jesus Christ through Mary, underscores her extraordinary significance.7 Her willing acceptance of God's plan, often referred to as her "fiat," was a pivotal moment that allowed for the divine entry into humanity.7
Throughout Christian history, theologians and scholars have explored the profound theological and symbolic connections between these two sacred vessels, the Ark of the Covenant and the Virgin Mary.7 This exploration has led to the concept of Mary as the "Ark of the New Covenant," suggesting a continuity and fulfillment between the Old and New Testaments, with Mary embodying a new and greater form of God's presence in the world.7 This connection, while not explicitly stated in the Old Testament, arises through Christian theological interpretation, particularly through the lens of typology, which sees Old Testament figures and events as foreshadowing New Testament realities.
2. The Ark of the Covenant: Foundation of Faith
2.1 Significance in Judaism
The Ark of the Covenant was constructed during a pivotal period in Israelite history: their wanderings in the desert following their exodus from Egypt.1 Approximately one year after this foundational event, God instructed Moses to build the Ark, which would serve as the most important symbol of the Jewish faith until the destruction of the First Temple.1 Its origin is therefore intrinsically tied to the establishment of Israel as a nation and their covenantal relationship with God.
The Ark was not a simple box; it was a meticulously crafted object made of durable acacia wood, overlaid entirely with gold, both inside and out.1 It had specific dimensions, measuring approximately 131×79×79 cm, and was adorned with a crown or molding of gold around its top.1 Four gold rings were attached to its corners, through which staves of acacia wood, also overlaid with gold, were inserted for carrying the Ark.1 These precious materials and the detailed design underscore the Ark's sanctity and its divine origin. The gold likely symbolized purity and royalty, while the acacia wood, known for its resistance to decay, could represent the enduring nature of the covenant. Atop the Ark was the mercy seat, a golden cover with two cherubim affixed to it, their wings extended upwards and facing each other.3 These cherubim represented the heavenly realm and served as a visual indication of God's presence.
The primary contents of the Ark were the Tablets of the Law, upon which the Ten Commandments were inscribed.1 These tablets served as the indisputable evidence of Israel's collective experience of revelation at Mount Sinai and symbolized the heart of the Covenant between God and His people.3 Later traditions, supported by the New Testament, also mention a golden jar holding the manna, the miraculous bread that sustained the Israelites in the wilderness, and Aaron's rod, which budded to signify his divinely appointed priesthood.4 Some Jewish traditions even include the broken pieces of the first set of tablets, which Moses smashed in anger upon witnessing the idolatry of the golden calf.3 These contents represent different facets of God's relationship with Israel: the Law as the foundation of the covenant, manna as a testament to divine provision, and Aaron's rod as the symbol of divinely ordained leadership. The inclusion of the broken tablets suggests the enduring nature of holiness and the importance of remembrance.3
The Ark was more than just a container; it was the central symbol of God's covenant and His presence among the Israelites.2 It constituted the holiest spot in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, often referred to as the Holy of Holies.3 It was considered the only physical manifestation of God on earth, the dwelling place of the Shekhinah, God's divine presence.2 God was believed to speak with Moses from between the two cherubim on the mercy seat.3 The Ark played a crucial role in the Israelites' journey, leading them during their travels and accompanying them into battle, signifying God's active presence, guidance, and protection.1 Its supreme sanctity was underscored by the fact that the Holy of Holies, where the Ark resided, was accessible only to the High Priest, and that too, only once a year on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.2 The legends surrounding the Ark and the severe penalties for its misuse further confirm its centrality to the Jewish faith.2 The eventual disappearance of the Ark after the Babylonian conquest in the 6th century BCE 11 left a void in Jewish tradition, the exact location remaining unknown to this day.17
2.2 Significance in Early Christianity
Early Christians, seeking to understand their faith in light of the Old Testament, interpreted the Ark of the Covenant as a significant symbol of the Old Covenant and a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ and the New Covenant.4 This approach, known as typology, allowed them to see deeper connections between the two testaments. The Mercy Seat on top of the Ark, where the High Priest sprinkled the blood of sacrifices for the atonement of sins, was seen as a type of Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross for the sins of humanity.4 Just as the blood on the Mercy Seat provided propitiation and expiation, Christ's blood was understood to have accomplished the ultimate atonement.11
Furthermore, the contents of the Ark were also interpreted symbolically in relation to Christ.11 The Tablets of the Law, representing God's word and commandments, were seen as pointing to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the Law.12 The jar of manna, the bread from heaven that sustained the Israelites in the wilderness, prefigured Jesus Christ as the Bread of Life, who came down from heaven to give eternal life.12 Aaron's rod, the symbol of the high priest's authority, foreshadowed Jesus Christ as the eternal High Priest.12 These symbolic interpretations reinforced the early Christian understanding of Jesus as the central figure of salvation history, whose life, death, and resurrection were foreshadowed in the Old Testament.
3. The Virgin Mary: Mother of God and Key Figure in Christianity
3.1 Her Role in Christian Theology
The Virgin Mary holds a place of immense significance in Christian theology, primarily due to her unique role as the Theotokos, a Greek title meaning "God-bearer" or "Mother of God".6 This title, affirmed by early church councils like the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD, emphasizes the fundamental Christian belief that Mary's son, Jesus, is not merely human but is fully God, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity.23 The historical debates surrounding this title underscore its crucial importance in defining the nature of Christ and Mary's integral role in the divine plan.
Mary's central role in the Incarnation is another cornerstone of Christian theology.6 The Gospels of Matthew and Luke describe Mary as a virgin who conceived Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit, without any human father.6 Her willing acceptance of this divine calling, expressed in her words "Let it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38), is known as her "fiat" and is seen as her active and essential participation in God's plan for salvation.7 This act of obedience and faith is considered pivotal in the unfolding of God's redemptive work.
In salvation history, Mary is often viewed as the "New Eve".26 Just as the first Eve's disobedience brought sin and death into the world, Mary's obedience and acceptance of God's will are seen as reversing the effects of that original sin, paving the way for redemption through her son, Jesus Christ.26 This parallel highlights Mary's crucial role in the restoration of humanity's relationship with God. Furthermore, many Christian traditions, particularly Catholic and Orthodox, believe in Mary's role as an intercessor, meaning she can pray to Jesus on behalf of believers due to her unique relationship with him as his mother.5
3.2 Key Marian Doctrines
Several key doctrines further define Mary's significance in Christian theology. The Immaculate Conception, a Catholic dogma formally declared in 1854, asserts that Mary was conceived without original sin from the moment of her conception.5 This unique privilege, granted by God in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, is seen as necessary for Mary to be a perfectly pure vessel for the Son of God.35 This doctrine emphasizes Mary's exceptional holiness from the very beginning of her life.
Another significant doctrine is the Assumption, believed in Catholic and Orthodox traditions.6 This doctrine teaches that at the end of her earthly life, Mary was taken bodily into heaven to be reunited with her soul.39 This belief underscores Mary's unique destiny and glorification, reflecting her intimate connection with the resurrected Christ and her preeminent status among the saints.
4. Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant: Theological Interpretations and Symbolic Connections
A significant theological interpretation within Christianity draws a powerful parallel between the Ark of the Old Covenant and the Virgin Mary, viewing her as the Ark of the New Covenant.7 This connection is primarily established through the lens of biblical typology, where Old Testament figures, events, and objects are seen as foreshadowing New Testament realities.
4.1 Biblical Typology
Several key passages in the New Testament are interpreted as drawing typological connections between the Ark and Mary. In Luke 1:35, during the Annunciation, the angel Gabriel tells Mary, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you." The Greek word used here for "overshadow," episkiasei, is the same word used in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) to describe the cloud that overshadowed the Ark of the Covenant upon its completion.8 This linguistic parallel suggests a deliberate connection by the Gospel writer, indicating that just as the cloud of God's presence dwelt over the Ark, so too did the Holy Spirit come to dwell within Mary.
Another significant passage is found in the Book of Revelation. In Revelation 11:19, John writes, "Then God's temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen within his temple." Immediately following this, in Revelation 12:1, John describes "a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head." Many Christian traditions interpret this woman as the Virgin Mary.10 The juxtaposition of the vision of the Ark in heaven with the appearance of this glorious woman suggests a direct link between the two, further supporting the understanding of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant.
4.2 Parallels in the Visitation Narrative
The narrative of Mary's visitation to her cousin Elizabeth in Luke 1:39-56 offers striking parallels to the account of King David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem in 2 Samuel 6.7 When Elizabeth greets Mary, she exclaims, "Why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?".43 This echoes David's question when faced with the Ark, "How can the ark of the Lord come to me?".9 The similarity in phrasing highlights the profound reverence and awe felt in the presence of both the Ark and Mary, who carried Jesus within her womb.
Furthermore, when Mary's greeting reaches Elizabeth, the infant John the Baptist leaps in Elizabeth's womb.8 This mirrors the account of David dancing before the Ark with joy.8 Both events signify a joyful recognition of the divine presence. Additionally, Mary stays with Elizabeth for approximately three months before returning to her home 9, a duration that parallels the three months the Ark remained in the house of Obed-edom, bringing blessings to his entire household.10 These parallels in the Visitation narrative strongly suggest a deliberate typological connection between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant.
4.3 Symbolic Correspondence of Contents
The symbolic correspondence between the contents of the Ark and Jesus Christ further strengthens the theological interpretation of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant.7 The Ark held the Tablets of the Law, the Word of God inscribed on stone. Mary carried within her womb Jesus Christ, who is understood in Christian theology as the Word of God made flesh (John 1:14).7 Just as the Ark contained the divine law, Mary contained the divine Lawgiver.
The Ark also held a jar of manna, the bread from heaven that miraculously sustained the Israelites in the wilderness. This corresponds to Jesus Christ, who referred to himself as the Bread of Life that came down from heaven to give eternal life (John 6:35).7 Mary's womb held the one who provides spiritual nourishment and sustenance for all humanity.
Finally, the Ark contained Aaron's rod, which budded as a sign of his priesthood and authority. This symbolizes Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest, mediating between God and humanity (Hebrews 4:14).7 Thus, just as the Ark held the symbols of God's covenant in the Old Testament, Mary carried within her the very embodiment of the New Covenant in Jesus Christ.
5. Scriptural and Religious Texts: Implicit and Explicit Links
A closer analysis of biblical passages reveals further implicit and explicit links between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant. The account in Luke 1:35, where the Holy Spirit "overshadows" Mary, not only echoes the cloud over the Ark but also connects to the broader theme of God's presence dwelling in a sacred space. The Ark was housed in the "inner sanctuary" or "most holy place" of the Tabernacle and Temple 28, and in a similar vein, Mary's womb became the dwelling place of God incarnate. This spatial analogy reinforces the typological connection, suggesting that Mary's womb held the divine presence in a new and profound way.
Beyond the New Testament, other religious texts and traditions support this connection. Mary is often referred to as the "Tabernacle of God," highlighting her role as the dwelling place for the incarnate Son of God.7 Since the Tabernacle housed the Ark, this title further emphasizes Mary's role as the vessel of the divine presence. Liturgical texts and hymns within various Christian traditions invoke Mary as the Ark of the Covenant, demonstrating the integration of this imagery into worship and theological understanding.50 These references in liturgy reflect deeply held beliefs about Mary's unique role in salvation history.
6. Scholarly and Patristic Perspectives
The understanding of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant is not a recent development but has deep roots in Christian tradition, with numerous theologians, biblical scholars, and early Church Fathers (Patristics) recognizing and articulating this connection.7 Early Church Fathers such as St. Hippolytus (c. 170-c. 236) explicitly referred to Mary as the Ark who brought forth the Savior.29 St. Gregory Thaumaturgus (c. 213-c. 270) described Mary as the holy Virgin, gilded within and without, who received the treasure of universal sanctification, comparing her to the Ark.29 St. Ambrose (c. 340-397) drew parallels between David dancing before the Ark and John the Baptist leaping in the womb at Mary's presence, stating that Mary bore the Heir of the Testament just as the Ark bore the tablets.29 St. Cyril of Jerusalem (c. 313-386) saw the temple of the Virgin as the Ark in which the Word of God took up His abode.29 These early writings demonstrate that the connection between Mary and the Ark was recognized and understood in the early centuries of Christianity.
Modern theological scholarship continues to explore and analyze the scriptural and theological basis for this connection.48 Scholars like Rene Laurentin have extensively studied the Lucan narrative and its allusions to the Ark of the Covenant in relation to Mary.48 These scholarly works often delve into the linguistic nuances of the biblical texts and the historical context of Jewish exegetical principles to further illuminate the typological relationship between the Ark and Mary. Attributes ascribed to Mary, such as her holiness, purity, and being the dwelling place of God, directly mirror the sanctity and function of the Ark, reinforcing the symbolic link between the two.29
7. Artistic and Literary Representations
The theological connection between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant has found expression in various forms of art and literature throughout Christian history.6 Artistic depictions often portray Mary holding the infant Jesus in a manner that evokes the imagery of the Ark containing its sacred contents. Some artistic motifs link Mary to the Old Testament Ark through the use of similar colors, such as blue, which is traditionally associated with Mary and was also the color of the coverings for the Ark.34 Architectural elements in depictions of Mary may also subtly allude to the Ark or the Temple, further reinforcing the connection.
Literary works, including hymns and poetry, frequently draw parallels between Mary and the Ark, celebrating her as the vessel who carried the Savior. These literary expressions allow for a more nuanced exploration of the symbolic and theological dimensions of this connection, enriching the understanding and devotion surrounding Mary's role in Christian faith.
8. Denominational Views on the Mary-Ark Connection
The understanding and interpretation of the connection between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant vary significantly among different Christian denominations.6 Catholic and Orthodox traditions generally hold a strong view of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant.7 This view is deeply rooted in their understanding of scripture, tradition, and the writings of the early Church Fathers. For these traditions, Mary's role as the Theotokos and her integral participation in the Incarnation necessitate a profound understanding of her as the vessel who uniquely carried God into the world, fulfilling the symbolic role of the Ark in a new and greater way.
Various Protestant traditions, however, tend to hold a more cautious view.6 While some Protestants may acknowledge the typological connections between the Ark and Mary, they are often hesitant to elevate Mary to such a prominent status, primarily due to concerns about what they perceive as Mariolatry or excessive devotion to Mary. Their theological emphasis on "Scripture alone" often leads to a focus on biblical texts that explicitly mention Mary, with less emphasis on typological interpretations that are not directly stated in the Bible.
Anglican and Lutheran traditions often represent a middle ground.6 Some within these traditions may hold views closer to the Catholic and Orthodox perspectives, recognizing the theological significance of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant, while others may align more closely with general Protestant views, emphasizing the unique mediatorship of Christ.
9. Metaphorical and Allegorical Significance
Beyond the literal and typological interpretations, the connection between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant holds profound metaphorical and allegorical significance.7 Just as the Ark served as the vessel containing God's symbolic presence, Mary became the vessel who contained God incarnate in the person of Jesus Christ. This highlights her unique role as the chosen instrument through whom the divine entered the human realm.
Furthermore, the Ark held the symbols of the Old Covenant, while Mary carried the mediator of the New Covenant. This underscores the transition and fulfillment from the Old Testament to the New Testament, with Mary's role signifying the inauguration of a new relationship between God and humanity through Christ. The purity and holiness associated with the Ark also find a parallel in Mary. The Catholic doctrine of the Immaculate Conception emphasizes her being a fitting and pure vessel for the Son of God, mirroring the sanctity required for the Ark to house the divine presence.
10. Conclusion: The Enduring Symbolism of Mary, the Ark of the New Covenant
The exploration of the theological and historical connections between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant reveals a rich and enduring symbolism within Christian thought. Viewing Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant provides a profound lens through which to understand her unique role in salvation history and the fulfillment of God's promises. The tapestry of scriptural connections, particularly in the Visitation narrative and the use of the word "overshadow," alongside the insights from early Church Fathers and the symbolic correspondence of the Ark's contents with Jesus Christ, all contribute to this powerful interpretation.
While different Christian denominations hold varying views on the prominence of Mary and the extent of this typological connection, the symbolism of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant continues to resonate deeply within Catholic and Orthodox traditions. It underscores the themes of God's presence dwelling among humanity, the transition from the Old to the New Covenant, and the unique sanctity and calling of the Virgin Mary in God's plan of redemption. This enduring symbolism serves as a testament to Mary's central place in Christian faith and devotion, highlighting her pivotal role in bringing the Savior into the world.
Works cited
Ark of the Covenant - Wikipedia, accessed March 30, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ark_of_the_Covenant
Ancient Jewish History: The Ark of the Covenant, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/the-ark-of-the-convenant
A New Ark of the Covenant - Jewish Theological Seminary, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.jtsa.edu/torah/a-new-ark-of-the-covenant/
The Ark of the Covenant - Bible Story and Meaning, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-stories/ark-of-the-covenant.html
The Importance of Devotion to Mary in the Catholic Faith, accessed March 30, 2025, https://ffhl.org/the-importance-of-devotion-to-mary-in-the-catholic-faith/
Mary, mother of Jesus - Wikipedia, accessed March 30, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary,_mother_of_Jesus
Mother Mary as the Ark of the Covenant and Tabernacle of God - Seeking Theosis, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.seekingtheosis.blog/mother-mary-as-the-ark-of-the-covenant-and-tabernacle-of-god/
A Word to Enkindle: Mary's womb, the ark of the new covenant, accessed March 30, 2025, https://school.cistercian.org/a-word-to-enkindle-marys-womb-the-ark-of-the-new-covenant/
Mary, Mother of God | Catholic Answers Magazine, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/mary-mother-of-god
Mary, the Ark of the New Covenant | Catholic Answers Magazine, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.catholic.com/magazine/print-edition/mary-the-ark-of-the-new-covenant
The Ark of the Covenant - Tabletalk Magazine, accessed March 30, 2025, https://tabletalkmagazine.com/article/2017/12/the-ark-of-the-covenant/
The Symbolism of the Ark of the Covenant - Feeding on Christ, accessed March 30, 2025, https://feedingonchrist.org/the-symbolism-of-the-ark-of-the-covenant/
Ark of the Covenant, Ark of the Testimony - Search results - Biblical Training, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.biblicaltraining.org/library/ark-of-the-covenant-ark-of-the-testimony
Contents of the Ark of the Covenant - Apologetics Press, accessed March 30, 2025, https://apologeticspress.org/contents-of-the-ark-of-the-covenant-2851/
What was inside the ark of the covenant? | GotQuestions.org, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.gotquestions.org/inside-the-ark-of-the-covenant.html
Contents of the Ark of the Covenant: part 5, Torah Scroll? Deuteronomy 31:24-27 by Dr. Terry Harman - The Tabernacle Man, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.thetabernacleman.com/post/5-contents-of-the-ark-of-the-covenant-part-5-torah-scroll-deuteronomy-31-24-27-by-dr-terry-harman
The Ark of the Covenant - Chabad.org, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/4277479/jewish/The-Ark-of-the-Covenant.htm
The Ark of the Covenant and God's Presence with Us - Ligonier.org, accessed March 30, 2025, https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/ark-covenant-and-gods-presence-us
What does the “ark of the covenant” symbolize? | 1 Chronicles 13-16 - Daily audio Bible and conversational apologetics podcast - For the Hope, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.forthehope.me/blog/1305-what-does-the-ark-of-the-covenant-symbolize-1-chronicles-13-16
What Is So Important about the Ark of the Covenant? - Bible Study Tools, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/what-is-so-important-about-the-ark-of-the-covenant.html
www.bpl.org, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.bpl.org/blogs/post/the-origins-and-practices-of-holidays-mary-mother-of-god-new-years-day-and-oshogatsu/#:~:text=It%20is%20a%20reminder%20of,is%20great%20cause%20for%20celebration.
The Origins and Practices of Holidays: Mary, Mother of God, New Year's Day, and Oshogatsu | Boston Public Library, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.bpl.org/blogs/post/the-origins-and-practices-of-holidays-mary-mother-of-god-new-years-day-and-oshogatsu/
Is Mary the mother of God (Theotokos)? | GotQuestions.org, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.gotquestions.org/Mary-mother-God-theotokos.html
Common Ground: Mary as Mother of God. : r/theology - Reddit, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/theology/comments/14t8c8f/common_ground_mary_as_mother_of_god/
Is Mary the mother of God meaning the whole Godhead? : r/OrthodoxChristianity - Reddit, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/OrthodoxChristianity/comments/1hq0115/is_mary_the_mother_of_god_meaning_the_whole/
Mary | Biography, Jesus, Bible References, Significance, Theology, & Miracles | Britannica, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Mary-mother-of-Jesus
What does the Bible say about the virgin Mary? | GotQuestions.org, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.gotquestions.org/virgin-Mary.html
Amazing Parallels Between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant - National Catholic Register, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.ncregister.com/blog/amazing-parallels-between-mary-and-the-ark-of-the-covenant
Church Fathers on Mary as Ark of the New Covenant :: - Catholic Fidelity, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.catholicfidelity.com/apologetics-topics/mary/church-fathers-on-mary-as-ark-of-the-new-covenant/
Mary is the Ark of the New Covenant : r/Catholicism - Reddit, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Catholicism/comments/13wh6el/mary_is_the_ark_of_the_new_covenant/
Church Fathers on Mary as Ark of the New Covenant - St Shenouda Monastery, accessed March 30, 2025, https://stshenoudamonastery.org.au/church-fathers-mary-ark-new-covenant/
www.catholic.com, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.catholic.com/tract/immaculate-conception-and-assumption#:~:text=The%20Immaculate%20Conception%20is%20a,immaculate%E2%80%9D%20means%3A%20without%20stain.
The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, December 8 - Marywood University, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.marywood.edu/about/history/chronological/1854-solemnity-of-the-immaculate-conception/
Immaculate Conception - Wikipedia, accessed March 30, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immaculate_Conception
Why Do We Celebrate the Immaculate Conception?, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.nationalshrine.org/blog/why-do-we-celebrate-the-immaculate-conception/
Immaculate Conception and Assumption | Catholic Answers Tract, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.catholic.com/tract/immaculate-conception-and-assumption
The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary - St. Boniface Parish - Lunenburg, MA, accessed March 30, 2025, https://stboniface-lunenburg.org/the-immaculate-conception-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary
Mary, Ark of the Covenant - Held By His Pierced Hands, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.piercedhands.com/mary-ark-of-the-covenant/
Origins and Practices of the Assumption of Mary | Boston Public Library, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.bpl.org/blogs/post/origins-and-practices-of-the-assumption-of-mary/
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Vatican News, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.vaticannews.va/en/liturgical-holidays/solemnity-of-the-assumption-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary.html
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary | Franciscan Media, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/assumption-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary/
Assumption of Mary - Wikipedia, accessed March 30, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assumption_of_Mary
CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Assumption of Mary - New Advent, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02006b.htm
UNVEILING THE SACRED PARALLELS: MARY, THE ARK OF THE COVENANT - mountcarmelreliefservices, accessed March 30, 2025, https://mountcarmelreliefservices.com/unveiling-the-sacred-parallels-mary-the-ark-of-the-covenant/
catholicproductions.com, accessed March 30, 2025, https://catholicproductions.com/blogs/blog/mary-the-ark-of-the-new-covenant#:~:text=The%20Holy%20Spirit%20%E2%80%94%20episkiasei%20%E2%80%94overshadows,place%20of%20God%20on%20earth.
Mary as the New Ark of the Covenant | - The Orthodox Faith, accessed March 30, 2025, http://theorthodoxfaith.com/article/mary-as-the-new-ark-of-the-covenant/
Mary, Ark of the Covenant - Catholic Telegraph, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.thecatholictelegraph.com/mary-ark-of-the-covenant/95907
Is the Ark of the Covenant a Type of Mary? - Light in Dark Places, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.keithmathison.org/post/is-the-ark-of-the-covenant-a-type-of-mary
Is mary The Ark of The New covenant? : r/OrthodoxChristianity - Reddit, accessed March 30, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/OrthodoxChristianity/comments/1aor48l/is_mary_the_ark_of_the_new_covenant/
The Dwelling of God: The Theology Behind Marian Ark of the Covenant Typology of the First Millennium - OhioLINK, accessed March 30, 2025, https://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=udmarian1613166917042061
The understanding of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant is nothing new. It was taught and celebrated early in Christian history, accessed March 30, 2025, https://catholicconvert.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/MaryArkPatristics.pdf
The Virgin Mary and Blue: What is the Significance? - FormFluent, accessed March 30, 2025, https://formfluent.com/blogs/blog/the-virgin-mary-and-blue-what-is-the-significance
I. Mary and the Ark of the Covenant
- A. Gabriel's Announcement and David's Throne: The angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary that she will conceive the one to inherit David's throne establishes a connection between Mary and the lineage of David, which is central to the significance of the Ark of the Covenant.
- B. The Holy Spirit and the Overshadowing: Gabriel's statement, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you", uses the word "overshadow" in a unique way.
- This word was previously used only when the cloud overshadowed the tabernacle in Exodus, signifying God's glory.
- This parallel suggests that Mary, like the tabernacle (which housed the Ark), became the dwelling place of the divine presence through the Holy Spirit.
- C. Mary as the New Ark: The language in Luke's Gospel describing Mary mirrors descriptions of the Ark and the tabernacle, implying that Mary is presented as a new Ark of the Covenant, carrying the very presence of God in Jesus Christ.
No comments:
Post a Comment