nothing in scripture proves that Mary is the ark of the new covenant or that she is the woman mentioned in Revelation as being clothed with the sun. In fact, she isn’t mentioned once past the book of Acts. Again, more Catholic add ons and gossip
“An Ark truly royal, an Ark most precious is the ever-Virgin Mother of God, an Ark which received the treasure of entire satisfaction.” - St. Chrysippus of Jerusalem, 455 A.D.
Throughout the Litany of Loreto, we are given glimpses into the Blessed Virgin’s prerogatives, into her various roles within the Church, and even insights into her own physical and spiritual beauty. Reading the Litany gives us a sense that we are viewing a panoramic sweep of history, as Old Testament imagery, such as “House of Gold” or “Tower of David,” stands alongside imagery associated with its fulfillment, such as “Mother of Our Savior” and “Mother of the Church.”
Surely one of the most - if not the most - interesting of all the Marian titles preserved in the Litany is Foederis Arca, “Ark of the Covenant.” What makes this title of such particular interest is the manner in which the Old and New Testaments seem to be almost “superimposed” over each in this one image, while, at the same time, the richness of our Catholic tradition of Scriptural exegesis is truly made manifest.
For starters, ReformationPlus, I refer you Exodus 25:10-20.
Certain aspects of this description stand out. The Ark was constructed of setim wood - possibly the wood of the acacia tree, a very hard and durable substance - which was purported to be indestructable. It was then overlaid with the purest gold, within and without. The Ark was not intended to be handled by the hands of men, for it was constructed with four golden rings, through which wooden bars could be inserted; thus, it could be lifted and carried to any destination. A covering for the Ark, called a Propitiatory, was also built; it was also referred to as the Mercy Seat, for the Lord was supposed to sit there upon the wings of the golden cherubim, the Ark serving as His footstool, and from there dispense His mercy to the people (it was also known as the Oracle, a place from which the Lord would command and receive replies from the people). Finally, golden cherubim covered both sides of the Propitiatory, facing each other, their wings spread to cover the Oracle. How well do the attributes of the Ark fit the Mother of God! In fact, important Marian doctrines are present in this initial Scriptural description, albeit in a veiled form, as foreshadowings of the “Living Ark” who would be born to Sts. Joachim and Anne.
