Theotokos is a Greek word that means “God-bearer” or “Mother of God.” It was used by Christians to describe Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, because they believed that her son was God himself. Theotokos emphasizes Mary’s special role in bringing Jesus into the world, and it acknowledges the unique nature of their relationship – that Jesus was both God and man. By calling Mary Theotokos, early Christians showed their belief that God was part of Jesus’ life on Earth, and they honored and respected her role in that.