👑 Salve Regina – Hail, Holy Queen
The Salve Regina is one of the most beautiful and beloved Marian antiphons in the Catholic tradition. This prayer, dating from the 11th century, honors Mary as our Queen and Mother of Mercy. It is traditionally sung at the end of Compline and is one of the four Marian antiphons of the Church.
Salve Regina Prayer
Latin
Salve Regina, Mater misericordiae,
Vita, dulcedo, et spes nostra, salve.
Ad te clamamus, exsules filii Evae.
Ad te suspiramus, gementes et flentes
in hac lacrimarum valle.
Eia ergo, advocata nostra,
illos tuos misericordes oculos
ad nos converte.
Et Iesum, benedictum fructum ventris tui,
nobis, post hoc exsilium, ostende.
O clemens, O pia, O dulcis Virgo Maria.
Ora pro nobis, sancta Dei Genitrix,
ut digni efficiamur promissionibus Christi.
English
Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy,
our life, our sweetness, and our hope.
To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve.
To thee do we send up our sighs,
mourning and weeping in this valley of tears.
Turn then, most gracious advocate,
thine eyes of mercy toward us.
And after this our exile,
show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.
Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
When to Pray Salve Regina
- • At the end of Compline - Traditional evening prayer of the Church
- • During Marian feasts - Especially on Marian solemnities
- • Personal devotion - As a beautiful prayer to Mary
- • In times of sorrow - When seeking Mary's comfort and mercy
- • Before sleep - As a peaceful way to end the day
- • During pilgrimages - Especially Marian pilgrimages
- • Family prayer - As a beautiful family devotion
History and Significance
Medieval Origins
The Salve Regina dates from the 11th century and is attributed to Hermann of Reichenau. It became a popular prayer in medieval monasteries and churches.
Mother of Mercy
This prayer emphasizes Mary's role as Mother of Mercy, highlighting her compassion and intercessory power for us sinners.
Valley of Tears
The prayer acknowledges our earthly exile and suffering, calling this world a "valley of tears" and seeking Mary's comfort.
Liturgical Use
The Salve Regina is one of the four Marian antiphons and is traditionally sung at the end of Compline during certain liturgical seasons.
How to Pray Salve Regina
Structure of the Prayer
1. Invocation
"Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy" - We address Mary with her most beautiful titles.
2. Recognition of Our State
We acknowledge our exile and suffering in this "valley of tears."
3. Petition
We ask Mary to turn her merciful eyes toward us and show us Jesus.
4. Final Appeal
We call on Mary's mercy and ask for her intercession.
Tips for Praying
- • Pray slowly, meditating on each phrase
- • Reflect on Mary's mercy and compassion
- • Consider your own need for God's mercy
- • Sing the prayer if you know the traditional melody
Biblical Foundation
The Salve Regina is deeply rooted in Scripture and tradition:
Luke 1:28
"Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you" - The greeting that Mary received from the angel.
Luke 1:42
"Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb" - Elizabeth's greeting to Mary.
John 19:26-27
"Woman, behold your son... Behold your mother" - Jesus giving Mary to us as our mother.
Spiritual Benefits
Comfort in Suffering
The Salve Regina brings comfort and hope in times of difficulty and suffering.
Marian Devotion
This prayer deepens our devotion to Mary and helps us see her as our merciful mother.
Liturgical Connection
Praying this antiphon connects us to the rich liturgical tradition of the Church.
Hope for Heaven
The prayer reminds us of our heavenly home and Mary's role in leading us there.