Mariological Dictionary: Terms and Concepts of the Theology of Mary

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Mariological dictionary: a glossary of the main terms and concepts of the theology of Mary.

Mariological dictionary: introduction

The Mariological dictionary is an essential reference tool for anyone who wishes to study Mariology in depth. It gathers, in alphabetical order, the main Marian terms, concepts, titles, and devotions, with theological explanations and patristic, magisterial, and biblical references. A good Mariological dictionary is the gateway to the serious study of the theology of Mary.

I. What a Mariological dictionary is

A Mariological dictionary is not merely a collection of words: it is an organized synthesis of centuries of reflection on Mary. The Mariological dictionary gathers biblical terms (Theotokos, Aeiparthenos, Kecharitomene), patristic terms (New Eve, Panagia), medieval terms (Mediatrix, Corredemptrix), modern terms (Immaculate Conception, Assumption), and contemporary terms (Mater Ecclesiae).

II. Thematic areas of the Mariological dictionary

The Mariological dictionary is organized into major areas: biblical Mariology, patristic Mariology, medieval Mariology, modern Mariology, contemporary Mariology, Marian devotions, Marian apparitions, shrines, iconography, and liturgical feasts. In each area, the Mariological dictionary presents its own terms and cross-references.

III. Core terms of the Mariological dictionary

Among the core terms that every Mariological dictionary includes are Theotokos (Mother of God, Ephesus, 431), Immaculate Conception (dogma of 1854), Assumption (dogma of 1950), Spiritual Motherhood, Mediation, Perpetual Virginity, Queenship of Mary, Immaculate Heart, Rosary, Magnificat, and New Eve. Each entry in the Mariological dictionary opens a door to universal Mariology.

IV. Whom the Mariological dictionary is for

The Mariological dictionary is intended for theology students, teachers, parish priests, catechists, devotees, and researchers. It is a working tool for preaching, catechesis, academic research, and Marian consecration. The Mariological dictionary of Locus Mariologicus, in particular, was designed to serve the Portuguese-speaking Mariological community.

V. How to consult the Mariological dictionary

To consult the Mariological dictionary profitably, it is advisable to start from the term, read the entry, compare it with the cross-references, and look for its application in the recent Magisterium. This method turns the Mariological dictionary into a true school of Mariology. To go deeper, consult the encyclical Redemptoris Mater.

Deepen your studies: explore the Mariology portal, Marian Theology, and the patristic Mariological dictionary of Locus Mariologicus.

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This article grows out of the works in the Locus Mariologicus library. The Postgraduate Program in Mariology takes you to the same source, with academic guidance: Scripture, the Fathers of the Church, and the Magisterium, from the first dogma to contemporary questions.

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