Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

stabat mater

Noun

/ˈstæ bæ t ˈmɑː tər/

Definition

A traditional Catholic hymn that expresses the pain of the Virgin Mary as she stands by the cross of Jesus during his crucifixion.

Examples

The stabat mater is often sung during Good Friday services.
Many composers, including Vivaldi and Pergolesi, have set the stabat mater to music.
In art, the stabat mater is portrayed in various forms, depicting the Virgin Mary in her grief.

Meaning

The phrase ‘stabat mater’ translates to ‘the mother stood,’ referring specifically to Mary standing at the foot of the cross. It reflects the sorrow and suffering of a mother witnessing her child’s suffering.