O Radix Jesse - The Great O Antiphons

19 December - O Radix Jesse

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.

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.

Text:
O radix Jesse,
qui stas in signum populorum,
super quem continebunt reges os suum,
quem gentes deprecabuntur:
veni ad liberandum nos, jam noli tardare.

Translation:
O Root of Jesse,
which standest for an ensign of the peoples,
at whom kings shall shut their mouths,
to whom the Gentiles shall sing
come and deliver us, and tarry not

Learn more about the O Antiphons at Westminster Abbey: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/the-great-o-antiphons/
Find out more about Advent & Christmas at the Abbey: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/