
September 8 is an important date in the Abrahamic religions. It is the birthdate of Maryam in Islam, Miriam in Judaism and the Blessed Mother Mary in Christianity.
Each religion reveres her more than any other woman, paying homage to her in their specific creeds.
Mary in Christianity
- Mother of God: Christians (particularly Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglicans) revere Mary as the Theotokos (Bearer or Mother of God) because she gave birth to Jesus, whom Christians believe is the incarnate Son of God.
- The New Eve: Christian tradition views her total obedience to God as the counterweight to Eve's disobedience, making her a vital figure in human redemption.
- Intercessor and Model: She is seen as sinless, perfectly faithful, and a spiritual mother to believers who can pray for them as an intercessor in heaven.
Mary in Islam
- Highest Status Among Women: In the Quran, Mary (Maryam) is named in an entire chapter (Surah 19)—the only woman explicitly named in the Quran. She is chosen by God and purified above all women of the world.
- The Virgin Birth: Islam firmly upholds the miraculous virgin birth of Jesus (Isa), celebrating Mary's chastity, strength, and complete submission to God's command.
- A Righteous Role Model: Muslims revere her not because she is the "Mother of God" (a concept rejected in Islamic theology), but because of her supreme personal piety, righteousness, and devotion.
The Jewish Perspective
- Historical Context: In traditional Judaism, Mary is simply the historical Jewish mother of Jesus of Nazareth. However, she is recognized for her devotion to chastity, her piety and her purity. She is treated as a role model, leading us to salvation.
And today, we honor her birth. Hail Mary, full of Grace.
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