The answer is: She was a virgin

Matt 1:23 - Matthew clearly understands this to be a literal virgin (cf Luke 1:34) and implies that the conception was miraculous.

The story of Jesus’ birth is packed with meaning and wonder, particularly about his mother, Mary. She is often celebrated not just for her miraculous virginal conception but also for embodying immense courage and faith. Imagine a young woman faced with the daunting news of an extraordinary kind—being told she would bear the Son of God! Her heart must have been a whirlwind of emotions, but instead of running, she embraced her role, highlighted in Luke 1:38 where she says, “I am the Lord’s servant.”

Now, if you think about it, Mary's virginity enriches the narrative quite beautifully. In ancient cultures, virgin births were seen as divine, a fascinating theme echoed in other historical figures considered great, like the births of figures in Greek mythology. But there’s another angle too: the very concept emphasizes purity—symbolizing a divinely-sent mission untainted by worldly influences.

In biblical writings, the notion of virginity appears multiple times, tying back to prophecies earlier in Isaiah (7:14). It’s interesting how often the stars had to align for this event, leading to the anticipation surrounding the Messiah. Later reflections on Mary's story also inspire thoughts around motherhood—her unwavering strength reminds us that creating something beautiful often requires facing impossible challenges with faith and trust. So, next time the tale is told, consider Mary’s profound impact on faith traditions throughout history and her pivotal role in the unfolding of human spirituality!