3 Uncommon Facts About the Assumption

Have you ever wondered about where the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 15) came from? Who decided Mary was assumed into Heaven?

While many are familiar with the basic belief that Mary was assumed into heaven, delving into its origins, significance, and the nuances surrounding it reveals a deeper understanding of her role in salvation history. These lesser-known facts not only enhance our appreciation of this important teaching but also invite us to reflect on Mary’s impact on the faith and her continued relevance in our spiritual growth.

1. The Feast’s Origins in Eastern Christianity: The celebration of the Assumption, known as the "Dormition of the Theotokos" in Eastern Christianity, has its origins in early Christian traditions of the East. The term "Dormition" means "falling asleep," referring to Mary’s peaceful passing before her body was assumed into heaven. The feast was celebrated in the Eastern Church as early as the 6th century, and it emphasizes not just Mary’s assumption but also her role as the Mother of God (Theotokos).

2. Bodily Assumption is Unique to Mary: While several saints have been believed to have experienced bodily assumption into heaven, such as Elijah and possibly Enoch, the Assumption of Mary is unique in that it is a dogma of the Catholic Church, defined infallibly by Pope Pius XII in 1950. This doctrine asserts that Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, emphasizing her unique role in salvation history and her close association with her son, Jesus Christ.

3. Incorruptibility and the Assumption: Some traditions suggest that the reason for the lack of physical relics of the Blessed Virgin Mary is because of her Assumption. Unlike other saints whose relics (bones, clothing, etc.) are venerated, there are no bodily relics of Mary. This is seen as supporting evidence for her Assumption, as her body was taken up into heaven, leaving no earthly remains. This idea of incorruptibility ties into the broader belief that Mary was preserved from the corruption of the grave due to her sinless nature and her role as the Mother of God.

I love how taking a closer look at lesser known facts surrounding the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, while also debunking common myths, not only clarifies misconceptions but also deepens our appreciation for this significant belief in Catholic teaching.

By understanding that the Assumption is rooted in tradition rather than explicit scriptural accounts, recognizing the role of Mary’s death in her Assumption, and acknowledging its formal declaration as dogma, we gain a richer perspective on her unique place in salvation history. Embracing these truths invites us to honor Mary not just as a distant figure, but as a compassionate mother who intercedes for us, ultimately fostering a stronger connection to our faith and a greater understanding of her role in our spiritual journey.