O Key of David - The Great O Antiphons

20 December - O Key of David.<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 Clavis David <br />
et sceptrum domus Israël, <br />
qui aperis, et nemo claudit; <br />
claudis, et nemo aperit; <br />
veni, et educ vinctum de domo carceris, <br />
sedentem in tenebris, et umbra mortis.<br />
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Translation:<br />
O Key of David<br />
and sceptre of the house of Israel,<br />
that openest and no man shutteth,<br />
and shuttest and no man openeth,<br />
come and bring the prisoner out of the prisonhouse,<br />
and him that sitteth in darkness and the shadow of death.<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/