Symbolism of Our Lady of Guadalupe?

[minked01]

Hello. I am a recent convert to the Catholic faith who is curious about the symbolic meaning behind the bottom portion of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. I have read that she stands atop a crescent moon while others attest to her standing over horns. Which is correct and what is the greater meaning by that specific part of the image? Also, is the child under her feet tied to the symbolism of the “horns” or “crescent moon”? I appreciate your help. Thank you!

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

The image has no “official” explanation since Mary did not give one, she only gave the image. However the symbolism seems to have some obvious references and some that require a little knowledge of the ancient culture to which it was given.

For an in-depth explanation of the symbolism I recommend the website of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Austin, TX:

The Lady is standing upon the moon. Again, the symbolism is that of the woman of Rev. 12:1 who has the “moon under her feet”. The moon for the Meso-Americans was the god of the night. By standing on the moon, she shows that she is more powerful than the god of darkness. However, in Christian iconography the crescent moon under the Madonna’s feet is usually a symbol of her perpetual virginity, and sometimes it can refer to her Immaculate Conception or Assumption…

…The angel supporting the Lady testifies to her royalty. To the Meso-American Indians only kings, queens and other dignitaries would be carried on the shoulders of someone. The angel is transporting the Lady to the people as a sign that a new age has come.