Why is Mary the Queen of Heaven?
The title “Mary, Queen of Heaven” is one of the most well-known and meaningful titles given to Mary in Christian—especially Catholic—tradition. But do you know why she called the Queen of Heaven?
The belief——or doctrine——that Mary is the Queen of Heaven isn’t just a broad assumption or whimsical guesswork. Explore with us how its firmly rooted in Scripture, ancient Jewish tradition, early Christian teachings, and centuries of theological and catechismal reflection.
Mary’s Queenship and Jesus Christ the King
The most accessible reason that Mary is called the Queen of Heaven simply because her son Jesus is King. That’s a fact that has deep roots in both history and the Bible.
In Christian belief, Jesus——as the son of King David——is not only the Messiah but also the long-promised eternal King of Heaven and Earth. Since Mary is the mother of Jesus, she is therefore honored as Queen Mother.
This idea comes from ancient Jewish royal tradition. In the ancient Kingdom of David, the king’s mother——not his wife——held the title of queen (gebirah). She had a position of honor and acted as an intercessor for the people (see 1 Kings 2:19).
Biblical Foundations of Mary as Queen
While the Bible does not explicitly use the phrase “Queen of Heaven” for Mary, the concept is strongly implied in Scripture.
In Luke 1:32–33, the angel Gabriel tells Mary that her son will:
“Be great… and the Lord God will give him the throne of David… and of his kingdom there will be no end.”
If Jesus is the eternal King, Mary logically holds the role of Queen Mother.
Revelation 12:1 also describes:
“A woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.”
Many Christians interpret this image as symbolizing Mary glorified in heaven, crowned as queen.
Mary’s Humility and Obedience
Mary’s queenship is not based on her power or authority but on her unflinching humility and obedience to God. When Mary said “yes” to God at the Annunciation, she freely cooperated in God’s plan of salvation.
Jesus himself taught that greatness in God’s kingdom comes through service:
“Whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12)
Mary’s exaltation as Queen of Heaven is one of the greatest reflections of this principle.
The Coronation of Mary
From the early centuries of Christianity, Church Fathers and theologians referred to Mary using royal titles. By the Middle Ages, the Coronation of Mary became a common theme in Christian art and prayer.
In 1954, Pope Pius XII officially established the Feast of Mary, Queen of Heaven, celebrated on August 22 in the Catholic Church.
Queen and Intercessor
As Queen of Heaven, Mary is believed to intercede for humanity before her Son. This does not mean she replaces Jesus, but rather that she points people to him, just as she did at the wedding at Cana (John 2:1–11).
Catholics believe Mary’s role as queen is maternal and loving, not ruling by command but by prayer and care.
Is Mary Worshiped?
A common question is whether calling Mary “Queen of Heaven” means she is worshiped. The answer is no. Worship is given to God alone. Mary is honored, not worshiped, because of her unique role in salvation history.
Our Conclusion
So, why is Mary the Queen of Heaven? Because she is the mother of Jesus Christ the King, fulfills the biblical role of Queen Mother, and was exalted by God for her humility and faith.
Her queenship reflects God’s values——where service, obedience, and love are crowned with eternal glory.