What is the Magnificat?

• A. A parable about a sower.
• B. A hymn about the birth of John the Baptist.
• C. Mary's canticle of praise found in Luke 1:46-55.
• D. A prophecy about the Messiah in Isaiah.

Answer: (C)

The Magnificat is Mary’s canticle, a short hymn of praise to God found in Luke 1:46-55. It begins with “My soul magnifies the Lord” and expresses gratitude for God’s mercy, highlighting how He upholds the humble and brings down the mighty. The song ties God’s faithfulness to Israel’s promises and the reversal of social fortunes—a theme that runs through Luke’s infancy narrative and points to Jesus’ mission.

This isn’t a parable, nor is it a prophecy about Isaiah or a hymn about John the Baptist’s birth. It’s Mary’s vocal response of worship and recognition of God’s saving work, set within the context of the visit to Elizabeth and the unfolding of salvation history.