Perpetual Virginity

Definition

Perpetual virginity refers to the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, remained a virgin before, during, and after the birth of Christ. This doctrine emphasizes her unique role in salvation history and is significant in understanding how Mary is viewed within Roman Catholicism as both a holy figure and a model of purity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The doctrine of perpetual virginity is rooted in early Christian writings and was formally articulated in the 2nd century by church fathers like St. Ignatius of Antioch.
2. Roman Catholicism sees Mary's perpetual virginity as a sign of her complete devotion to God and an integral part of her identity as the Mother of God.
3. The Council of Ephesus in 431 AD affirmed Mary’s title as Theotokos, which implicitly supports the idea of her perpetual virginity.
4. This belief is not universally accepted among all Christian denominations; many Protestant groups do not adhere to the idea of Mary’s perpetual virginity.
5. In art and literature, Mary is often depicted symbolically representing purity, which is deeply connected to the belief in her perpetual virginity.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of perpetual virginity reflect on Mary's role within the Roman Catholic faith?
  • The concept of perpetual virginity underscores Mary's unique role in salvation history as the Mother of God. By remaining a virgin before, during, and after the birth of Jesus, she embodies purity and complete devotion to God. This belief elevates her status within Roman Catholicism, portraying her as a model for all believers and reinforcing the significance of her contributions to Christian faith.
• Evaluate the theological implications of perpetual virginity in contrast to other beliefs about Mary, such as the Immaculate Conception and Assumption.
  • Perpetual virginity complements other doctrines about Mary, like the Immaculate Conception and Assumption, by emphasizing her purity and divine selection. The Immaculate Conception posits that Mary was free from original sin, which aligns with her role as a perpetual virgin; both doctrines collectively enhance her sanctity. The Assumption further solidifies her esteemed position in Catholic theology by declaring her bodily elevation into heaven, affirming that her life was uniquely blessed and free from sin.
• Critically assess how differing views on Mary's perpetual virginity affect interdenominational relationships within Christianity today.
  • Differing views on Mary's perpetual virginity can create theological divides between Roman Catholics and many Protestant denominations. While Catholics uphold this doctrine as central to their understanding of Mary's sanctity, many Protestants reject it, viewing it as unbiblical. This divergence can lead to misunderstandings and tension during ecumenical discussions, as differing beliefs about Mary can reflect broader differences in how scripture is interpreted and how tradition shapes doctrine within Christianity.

Related terms

Immaculate Conception:

The doctrine that Mary was conceived without original sin, which underscores her purity and suitability to be the mother of Jesus.

Assumption: The belief that Mary was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory at the end of her earthly life, reflecting her elevated status in Catholic teaching.

Theotokos: A Greek term meaning 'God-bearer' or 'Mother of God', used to affirm Mary's role as the mother of Jesus Christ, who is both divine and human.