An Evaluation of the Social Role of the Sri Lankan Women Portrayed in the Sinhala Marian Hymns: Based on the Marian Hymns of Rev. Fr. Marcelline Jayakody

Abstract

Marian devotion holds a significant place in Christianity, with Mary symbolizing the ideal representation of women. Over time, a rich tradition of Marian devotion developed, resulting in the creation of prayers, hymns, sculptures, paintings, and churches dedicated to her. Among these artistic expressions, hymns, in particular, have a unique ability to resonate with people's hearts through the power of music as an art medium. The origins of Sinhala Marian hymns can be traced back to the compositions of Catholic hymns by Rev. Fr. Jacome Gonzalvez. Rev. Fr. Gonzalvez compared Mary to Sri Lankan women, highlighting her noble, humble, and maternal qualities within the context of the Jewish society in which she was born. However, a comprehensive academic evaluation of the social role of Sri Lankan women as portrayed in Sinhala Marian hymns is yet to be undertaken. This study aims to fill the existing research gap in the academic exploration of this subject, as previous research has primarily focused on the aesthetic aspects of femininity portrayed in Sinhala Marian hymns. This research employs a qualitative research methodology, drawing upon Sinhala hymns, historical reports, academic journals, internet sources, and interviews. By analysing these diverse sources, the study seeks to identify and understand the social role attributed to Sri Lankan women in Sinhala Marian hymns. By delimiting the research scope to the hymns found in the book "Thun Kekula" written by Fr. Marcelline Jayakody, the study ensures a focused analysis within a specific context. The findings of this research will shed light on the social role ascribed to Sri Lankan women in the context of Sinhala Marian hymns. It will contribute to a deeper understanding of how cultural and religious beliefs influence the portrayal of women in religious contexts, providing valuable insights for scholars, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of religious studies, gender studies, and cultural studies.