The Ave Maria, also known as the Hail Mary, is a traditional Catholic prayer seeking the intercession of Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is one of the most well-known and beloved prayers in the Catholic tradition. The prayer is typically recited in either Latin, the official language of the Catholic Church, or in the local language of the worshipper. Having both the Latin and English versions allows individuals to understand the prayer's original text and its meaning in their own language. The Ave Maria is often recited during the Rosary and other devotional practices.