Por Que Amo Maria?

Padre Antônio Maria's song 'Por Que Amo Maria?' is a heartfelt tribute to the Virgin Mary, reflecting deep religious devotion and reverence. The lyrics explore the reasons behind the singer's love for Mary, emphasizing her unique role in the Christian faith. The song begins with a rhetorical question, 'Por que amo assim Maria?' (Why do I love Mary so much?), and answers it by highlighting Mary's significance as the mother of Jesus, the savior. This sets the tone for a song that is both a personal declaration of faith and a broader theological reflection.

The lyrics draw on the Christian doctrine of loving one's neighbor, extending this love to Mary, who is seen as a pivotal figure in the salvation narrative. The repeated invocation of 'Ave Maria' (Hail Mary) and the description of Mary as a 'estrela guia' (guiding star) and 'Mãe admirável' (admirable mother) underscore her importance in guiding believers towards God. The song suggests that just as one must love their enemies, one must also love Mary, who brought forth the savior, thus making her an essential part of the divine plan.

The song also delves into theological concepts, such as the idea that God chose Mary to bring peace to the world and that it is impossible to find Jesus without acknowledging Mary. This is encapsulated in the lines, 'Não encontra quem quiser encontrar Cristo sem cruz / Impossível é sem Maria encontrar também Jesus' (One cannot find Christ without the cross / It is impossible to find Jesus without Mary). The song beautifully intertwines the themes of love, faith, and the indispensable role of Mary in the Christian journey, making it a profound piece of devotional music.