Turning what they want to do into what they would like others to do

Lawyer in court: May we be heard?

[given permission to speak by the judge, makes an objection].

Judge: Objection overruled.

‘May we be heard’ is a very formal equivalent of ‘Can we say something?’, or ‘Let me say something,’ asking for permission before interrupting an ongoing discussion, with a passive that puts the focus on the other party rather than the person making the interruption.

Is it a question or a directive/order?

Other similar ‘May we be ..’ expressions:

• ‘May we be excused’ to mean, ‘Can we leave?’
• ‘May we be graced by your presence’ to mean, ‘It would be an (honor/gratifying/pleasing to us) to have you attend our event.’

But it is not a very productive form?

• May it be noted that ..

• It should be noted that ..

• May it be done

  I am the Lord’s slave,” said Mary. “May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel left her. And Mary said, Behold, the handmaid of the Lord; be …

An immaculate and passive (or active?) conception. I think this is an OK, rather than request.