JESUS AND MARY
WAS HE DISHONORING HIS MOTHER BY SAYING “WOMAN”?
Jesus’ use of the term “woman” when addressing His mother Mary carries deep theological significance and is not disrespectful as it might seem in modern English. This form of address appears in two key moments: at the wedding in Cana (Jn 2:4) and at the foot of the cross (Jn 19:26). These instances reflect important biblical themes that reveal profound truths about Mary’s role in salvation history, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, and Christ’s divine mission.
Fulfillment of Genesis 3:15
Jesus’ use of “woman” echoes God’s words to the serpent in Genesis 3:15: “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”
This prophecy, often called the “protoevangelium” or first gospel, finds its fulfillment in Mary as the new Eve and Jesus as the promised offspring who defeats Satan. By calling Mary “woman,” Jesus identifies her with this prophetic figure, emphasizing her role in the ultimate victory over sin and evil.
Mary’s Role in Salvation History
By addressing Mary as “woman,” Jesus underscores her unique role in God’s plan of salvation. This title connects her to Eve, highlighting Mary’s obedience in contrast to Eve’s disobedience. Mary, as the new Eve, cooperates with God’s grace in a pivotal way, participating in the redemption brought about through her Son, Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Motherhood
At the foot of the cross, Jesus entrusts Mary to the beloved disciple, saying: “Woman, behold your son.” (Jn 19:26)
This moment establishes Mary’s spiritual motherhood for all believers. By entrusting her to John, Jesus extends her maternal care to the entire Church, symbolizing her role as the spiritual mother of all Christians. This act signifies the formation of a new family of faith, united through the sacrificial love of Christ.
Jesus’ Divine Mission
Using “woman” instead of “mother” subtly indicates Jesus’ shift from earthly familial ties to His divine mission. It underscores His identity as the Son of God rather than merely Mary’s son. This form of address highlights Jesus’ divine authority and the universal scope of His redemptive work.
Cultural Context
In Jesus’ time and culture, addressing a woman as “woman” was not disrespectful. It was a formal yet polite form of address, similar to “ma’am” in modern English. This cultural understanding helps to clarify that Jesus’ use of the term was respectful and appropriate for the context.
REFLECTION
For Christians, Jesus’ use of “woman” for Mary reveals profound truths about her role in salvation history, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, and Christ’s divine nature. It invites us to reflect on Mary’s example of faith and her unique relationship with her Son and our Savior. Through this term, Jesus honors Mary, highlights her significance in God’s salvific plan, and establishes her as the spiritual mother of all believers. It invites us to reflect on Mary’s example of faith and her unique relationship with Jesus.