From Famous Women in the Bible and History
Symbols of the Virgin Mary
In the previous issue, we mentioned symbols and titles of the Virgin Mary, including: the Burning Bush, the Censer, the Second Heaven, the Tabernacle of Moses, the Holy of Holies, and the Ark of the Covenant. We add to these:
7, 8. The Golden Pot of Manna and the Golden Lampstand:
- The Lord Christ was likened to the manna (John 6:58; Rev. 2:17). Therefore, it is not surprising that the Virgin is called the Golden Pot of Manna, which contained the manna within it.
- In the same way, the Virgin was called the Golden Lampstand, because it bears the light.
The Virgin bore within her the True Light, and for this reason she was given the title “Mother of the Light.” See the Theotokia of Sunday.
9. Aaron’s Rod That Budded:
Aaron’s rod, which brought forth life and budded (Num. 17:8), was a symbol of the Virgin Mary, who gave birth while remaining a virgin. The explanation of this symbol is found in the Sunday Psali.
10. The Eastern Gate Seen by Ezekiel:
It is the closed gate in the east that Ezekiel saw. Through it the Lord of Glory entered and went out, yet it remained closed.
It is a symbol of the Virgin Mary, whose virginity remained sealed, although the Lord of Glory dwelt in her and was born of her.
An article by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, published in El-Keraza Magazine, Year Eight, Issue Fifty-Two, December 30, 1977.
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