Christ after having lain for only three days in the tomb, rose again and ascended to heaven. Likewise, the death of the Virgin resembled rather a short sleep, hence it was called "Dormitio" and before corruption could defile her body, God restored her to life and glorified her in heaven. These three privileges are celebrated by the feast of the Assumption which follows logically from the privilege of the Immaculate Conception and the Mystery of the Incarnation. For sin never having defiled the soul of Mary, it was right that her body, in which the Word had become Incarnate, should not be tainted by the corruption of the tomb.Vultum tuum deprecabuntur omnes divites plebis: adducentur regi virgines post eam: proximae ejus adducentur tibi in laetitia et exsultatione. * Eructavit cor meum verbum bonum: dico ego opera mea regi.
All the rich among the people shall entreat thy countenance: after her shall virgins be brought to the King: her neighbours shall be brought to Thee in gladness and rejoicing. * My heart hath uttered a good word: I speak my works to the King.
(Psalm 44:13,15-16,2 from the introit of Mass)
Deus, qui virginalem aulam beatae Mariae, in qua habitares, eligere dignatus es: da, quaesumus; ut, sua nos defensione munitos, jucundos facias suae interesse festivitati.
O God, who didst vouchsafe to choose for Thy dwelling the virginal womb of blessed Mary; grant, we beseech Thee, that we who enjoy her intercession, may assist with joy at her festival.
(Collect)
From the Catholic Encyclopaedia: http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02006b.htm
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