Stabat Mater: the hymn of Mary’s compassion

# Stabat Mater: The Hymn of Mary’s Compassion

## The Text and Its Authorship

The poem, in Latin, consists of 20 stanzas of three lines each. It is attributed to Jacopone da Todi (a Franciscan from the 13th century), though authorship is debated. The text describes Mary “standing” at the Cross, suffering alongside her Son, and invites the faithful to share in this compassionate pain: “Make my heart burn with love for Christ God, that I may give thanks to Him.”

## Great Musical Compositions

The *Stabat Mater* has been set to music by numerous composers throughout history, including Vivaldi, Pergolesi, Haydn, Schubert, Dvořák, Verdi, and Poulenc. Pergolesi’s version (1736), composed shortly before his death, is considered one of the most moving works in sacred music. The text’s versatility, suitable for both Renaissance polyphony and Romanticism, accounts for its extraordinary musical richness.

## Liturgy

The *Stabat Mater* is part of the Office for the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows (September 15) and accompanies the *Via Crucis* (Way of the Cross) in many traditions. Its place in the Divine Office was confirmed by Pope Benedict XIII in 1727.

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## Church Magisterium

> *Stabat mater dolorosa / iuxta crucem lacrimosa / dum pendebat Filius.*
>
> *Iacobus de Benedictis (attr.), Stabat Mater Dolorosa (13th century), liturgical hymn approved*

**Translation:** The Mother was in pain / standing by the sorrowful cross / while the Son hung.