Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary is an ancient custom, tied to a passage from the Gospel of Luke that speaks of Mary’s heart, “(and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:35).
The devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary became more popular and the image of the Immaculate Heart also spread around the world.
The image seems to be simple, but the symbolism behind it is complex.
- Mary’s Heart is Visible Outside of her Body
This shows her undying love for all people. It also explains the love she cannot depict within her mind. Some artists choose to depict the Blessed Virgin carrying her heart in her hand or simply pointing a finger at her heart. The gesture suggests that Mary wants to give her heart to the one who is viewing the image.
2. Mary’s Heart is Typically on Fire
This emphasizes the imagery of the intensity of her love for God and for humanity.
3. Heart is Encircled with White Roses
The Immaculate Heart of Mary is encircled with white roses. These symbolize her purity, brought about by her Immaculate Conception, creating within her the purest heart.
Some artists depict her heart is also shown with a lily coming out of the top, also symbolizing her purity.
4. A Single Sword Piers into Heart
Referring to the passage of Luke (“a sword shall pierce…”) brings to mind the sorrows she endured during her lifetime, especially during the crucifixion.
5. The Heart is Surrounded by Rays of Light
This brings to mind Revelation 12:1, which describes the Blessed Virgin Mary as “a woman clothed with the sun.”