Mary Magdalene is commonly symbolized by a jar of oil, long hair, and, in her later years, a hairshirt. These symbols represent different aspects of her biblical narrative and traditional iconography, particularly her devotion, repentance, and asceticism.
Primary Symbols of Mary Magdalene
Her most recognized symbols are deeply rooted in biblical accounts and later traditions that highlight her significant role among the followers of Jesus Christ.
- Jar of Oil (Alabaster Jar):
- This is perhaps her most prominent symbol.
- It references the act of anointing Jesus's feet with precious ointment, demonstrating her profound devotion and humility. This event is a cornerstone of her association with penitence and sacred anointing.
- Long Hair:
- Often depicted with flowing, unbound long hair, this symbol connects to the same act of anointing where she is said to have wiped Jesus's feet with her hair after washing them with her tears.
- It can also symbolize her beauty and, for some interpretations, her past life before her conversion, or her asceticism when depicted as disheveled due to penance.
Symbolism in Later Life
In artistic depictions of her later life, particularly as a hermit, an additional symbol emerges:
- Hairshirt:
- In older age or depictions of her as a penitent living in solitude, Mary Magdalene is sometimes shown wearing a hairshirt.
- This garment, traditionally made from coarse animal hair, signifies severe self-discipline, penance, and renunciation of worldly comforts, reflecting her ascetic life in the wilderness.
Summary of Symbols
To provide a clear overview, here's a table summarizing Mary Magdalene's key symbols:
| Symbol | Significance | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Jar of Oil | Devotion, anointing, repentance, sacred service | Anointing Jesus's feet |
| Long Hair | Humility, devotion, wiping feet with hair, beauty | Associated with the feet-washing incident |
| Hairshirt | Penance, asceticism, spiritual devotion | Depictions of her later life as a hermit in the wilderness |
These symbols have been consistently used in art and religious iconography to identify Mary Magdalene and convey her story of devotion, transformation, and enduring faith.
