The Origin of the Ave Maria
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There is no doubt in my mind that one of the most famous and beloved Catholic songs celebrating Mary is undoubtedly the Ave Maria. Whether it is performed during a joyful wedding ceremony or a solemn funeral service, this beautiful and profound song has a way of making its presence felt in any of these Mass celebrations . Sung in the elegant and timeless language of Latin, this beautiful and deeply humble tribute to the Virgin Mary has its origins in a poem written by the well-known and respected author Sir Walter Scott. The song's poignant lyrics are adapted from Scott's esteemed poem "The Lady of the Lake," which captures a captivating narrative. Meanwhile, the melody was masterfully composed by the talented and celebrated musician Franz Schubert in the year 1825. The well-known and beloved hymn "Ave Maria" actually originates from "Ellen's Third Song," a piece written by Schubert in 1825 as part of his Op. 52. This work includes a remarkable setting of seven songs drawn from Sir Walter Scott's famous classic poem, The Lady of the Lake, further enhancing its enduring legacy. Ave Maria is the Latin name for the Hail Mary prayer and is also the main phrase and chorus of Ellen's song, which is a prayer to the Virgin Mary.
The text is historically divided into two parts, with the third part being added later.The first part references Luke 1:28, where the Angel Gabriel greets the Blessed Virgin Mary on the Annunciation, informing her that she will conceive by the Holy Spirit. The second part, based on Luke 1:40-42, describes St. Elizabeth's greeting of Mary, who is now pregnant. When Elizabeth hears Mary's greeting, her baby (John the Baptist) leaps for joy in her womb.Elizabeth tells Mary that she is blessed, as is the child she is carrying (who will be Jesus Christ).
The Ave Maria has been sung by many. This beautiful piece of music continues to resonate in both religious ceremonies and personal contemplations alike, preserving its significance for years to come.
English/Latin lyrics
Hail Mary, full of grace
Ave, Maria, grátia plena
Mary full of grace
Maria grátia plena
Mary full of grace
Maria grátia plena
Hail, Hail, Lord
Ave, ave Dóminus
The Lord is with you
Dóminus tecum
Blessed are you among women
Benedícta tu in muliéribus
And blessed, blessed
Et benedíctus, benedíctus
The fruit of your womb, Jesus
Fructus fructus ventris tui, Iesus
Farewell, Mary
Ave, Maria
Hail Mary, Mother of God
Ave Maria, Mater Dei
Pray for us sinners
Ora pro nobis peccatóribus
Pray, pray for us
Ora, ora pro nobis
Pray, pray for us sinners
Ora, ora pro nobis peccatóribus
Now and in the hour of death
Nunc et in hora mortis
At the hour of our death
In hora mortis nostrae
At the hour of our death
In hora mortis mortis nostrae
At the hour of our death
In hora mortis nostrae
Hail Mary
Ave Maria
" Ave Maria, Totus tuus" or "Totally yours"
Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.
