O Root of Jesse - The Great O Antiphons

19 December - O Root of Jesse.<br />
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The Great O Antiphons are a series of short verses which count down the days to Christmas Eve. Sung at the beginning and end of the Magnificat during Evensong, each antiphon begins with a different name for Jesus. They draw on Scripture to help us learn about who Jesus will be, as predicted by the prophets. <br />
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At Westminster Abbey, these antiphons are sung at Evensong from the 17th to 23rd of December. This year, we have recorded them in the Abbey’s beautiful Chapter House and will release a new music video on the appointed day for each antiphon. <br />
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Text:<br />
O radix Jesse, <br />
qui stas in signum populorum, <br />
super quem continebunt reges os suum, <br />
quem gentes deprecabuntur: <br />
veni ad liberandum nos, jam noli tardare.<br />
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Translation:<br />
O Root of Jesse,<br />
which standest for an ensign of the peoples,<br />
at whom kings shall shut their mouths,<br />
to whom the Gentiles shall sing<br />
come and deliver us, and tarry not<br />
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Learn more about the O Antiphons at Westminster Abbey: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/the-great-o-antiphons/<br />
Find out more about Advent & Christmas at the Abbey: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/