STABAT MATER Meaning and
Definition
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Stabat Mater is a Latin phrase that translates to "the sorrowful mother." It refers to a medieval Catholic hymn that commemorates the suffering and grief of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, as she stood at the foot of the cross during his crucifixion. The Stabat Mater hymn is based on a 13th-century poem attributed to Jacopone da Todi and has been set to music by various composers throughout history.
The Stabat Mater hymn typically consists of 20 stanzas, each of which addresses a different aspect of Mary's anguish and her profound empathy for her son's suffering. It reflects on the pain she endured witnessing the crucifixion, expressing her deep sorrow and devotion. The lyrics often depict her as a compassionate figure, grieving for her child while also contemplating the significance of his sacrifice for humanity.
The Stabat Mater has become an essential part of Catholic liturgical music, often performed during the Lenten season, particularly on Good Friday. Its powerful and emotional text has inspired numerous musical compositions, including oratorios, choral works, and even operas, by renowned composers such as Giovanni Pergolesi, Antonio Vivaldi, Franz Joseph Haydn, and Giuseppe Verdi.
The phrase "Stabat Mater" has also become a general term referring to any artistic depiction or representation of the Virgin Mary in her sorrowful state at the crucifixion. It evokes a sense of profound mourning and devotion, capturing the enduring pain and enduring faith of Mary during one of the most pivotal moments in Christian history.
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The mother stood, the first words of a celebrated Latin hymn composed in the 14th century, set to music by nearly all the great composers, performed in the services of R. Cath. Ch. during Holy Week.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for STABAT MATER
- atabat mater
- ztabat mater
- xtabat mater
- dtabat mater
- etabat mater
- wtabat mater
- srabat mater
- sfabat mater
- sgabat mater
- syabat mater
- s6abat mater
- s5abat mater
- stzbat mater
- stsbat mater
- stwbat mater
- stqbat mater
- stavat mater
- stanat mater
- stahat mater
- stagat mater
Etymology of STABAT MATER
The term "Stabat Mater" originates from Latin and translates to "the mother stood". It is derived from the first line of a medieval Catholic hymn, "Stabat Mater dolorósa", which means "the sorrowful mother stood". This hymn, attributed to Jacopone da Todi in the 13th century, describes the grief of the Virgin Mary standing by the cross of her son, Jesus Christ, during his crucifixion. The words "Stabat Mater" have been widely used as a title for various artistic and musical compositions, particularly those related to depicting Mary's agony at the crucifixion.
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