Dr. Jeanette Pinto –
The exceptional exhibition of “Magdalene in Ecstasy,” is one of Caravaggio’s most compelling and influential works, recently displayed at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Bangalore. I visited the exhibition and viewed this extraordinary painting, meant to capture a moment of intense spiritual transformation. Her enraptured body leaned backward in ecstasy. Her loosened hair, parted lips, eyes half closed and a tear rolling down, she is one could say in a state of surrender. As a masterpiece, it is beautiful, however, the distinct visual language of this portrayal puzzled me, and I wondered who really is Mary Magdalene.
Mary Magdalene, was one of the celebrated female figures of Jesus’ time, described differently by early writers. She was “of Magdala,” an old fishing town; she was one from whom Christ cast out “seven demons,” (Luke 8:2)- an indication of extreme demonic possession. She is the repentant sinner who anointed Christ’s feet with costly ointment and bathed them in tears. She was part of the entourage following Jesus everywhere, as mentioned in the four canonical gospels. She is a witness to Jesus’ death and resurrection, the first to announce the joyful message of Easter, and finally, she is a sinner turned saint.
Early Christian writings portray Mary Magdalene as a spiritual figure favoured by Jesus, challenging traditional patriarchal norms. She shot into fame after being exorcised by Jesus. Bart D Ehrman a New Testament scholar and historian of early Christianity, contends that the number seven may be symbolic in Jewish tradition. Mary is also wealthy, for she supported Jesus’ ministry financially. Truly, she is quite a perplexing and enigmatic person!
Women played an active and important role in Jesus’ ministry as it brought them greater liberation than what prevailed in mainstream Jewish society. Mary was among several women who watched Jesus’ crucifixion from a distance, perhaps because women were less likely to be arrested than male disciples who fled the scene out of fear. It was Mary who first discovered the empty tomb. In the 18th century moral reformers established ‘Magdalene asylums’ to help save women from prostitution. In the modern era, she became the patroness of “wayward women.” Lastly, she accompanied St John the Evangelist to Ephesus where she died.
Sainthood: “Apostle of the Apostles” is the title given to Mary Magdalene by St Thomas Aquinas. She was not formally canonized by a specific declaration, instead, her veneration as a saint developed over time. Pope Gregory I in the 6th century identified her as a “sinful woman.” This influenced Western Christian understanding for centuries. Legends in the Middle Ages, particularly in Provence, France, claimed she evangelized the region after the resurrection. The Eastern Orthodox Church did not make much of Mary Magdalene.
There is no specific date for her canonization because she was recognized a saint. Her feast day was earlier fixed on July 22nd in the Roman calendar of the 13th century. In the 20th and 21st centuries, with the influence of ecumenical efforts and Biblical scholarship, the Church clarified the distinctions between the different women and highlighted Mary Magdalene’s unique role as a witness to the resurrection making her a figure of veneration.
Mary Magdalene was beatified by Pope Pius XII in 1941 and canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1988. In 2016, Pope Francis elevated her memorial to a feast, aligning it with the liturgical rank of the apostles. Saint Mary Magdalene is now the patroness of converts, repentant sinners, sexual temptations, pharmacists, tanners, women, and many ranks.
Jesus was respectful and honored women. The extraordinary part in the life story of Mary Magdalene, is that a single encounter with the Savior Jesus, was so powerful that it captivated, redirected, and propelled her to a new life. We too have the same opportunity today. Accepting the love of God launches one into a new life. It is not a life without struggles but a life with Jesus walking beside you, providing hope and comfort despite your mistakes and wrong turns.
The many Biblical characters teach us important lessons and humanize God’s words. The life story of Mary Magdalene is especially interesting, her past struggles and the radical change resulting in healing, made her bold and confident. Her life teaches us firstly that our past does not dictate our future. God can save you regardless of where you have been or what you have done. You have your identity intact- “a loved child of God.”
Secondly, Mary Magdalene passionately dedicated her life to support Christ’s work to spread the gospel. Invest in the kingdom of God, your returns will be fruitful. Thirdly, fear not, overcome difficulties and problems, surrender them to God who will help you. Fourthly, reconnect with Jesus. Love others unconditionally, it is the best way to open their spirit. Prayer, worship, and Bible study, will help reflect His love to others. Mary Magdalene’s story is one of true friendship that endured redemption healing and love. I hope her life has inspired you as it has inspired me.