Magnificat O Antiphons (Divine Office)

----- Forwarded Message ---- From: William . . . Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 Subject: O Antiphons! Dear Father Donald, Thank you for the superb explanation of the tradition of the "O Antiphons". Quite enthralling to consider that since c.500 they have been recorded, and in use in the liturgical celebrations in Rome since the 8th century. What a heritage for us! I am quite intrigued by the ero cras formation, that is magnificent! Inspired by the tradition that unfold, I have typed them out in their modern idiom from the Divine Office so that I can delight in them across each day, to be able to relish them all the more (oh! how little we see as we walk with eyes that hasten before our racing minds!), for even as I typed them out, meanings that lay hidden at a single reading opened up for me. I show them below. Thank you sevenfold! In Our Lord, William. Magnificat O Antiphons (Divine Office) 17 December - O Wisdom, you come forth from the mouth of the Most High. You fill the universe and hold all things together in a strong yet gentle manner. O come to teach us the way of truth. 18 December - O Adonai (an ancient name of God) and leader of Israel, you appeared to Moses in a burning bush and you gave him the Law on Sinai. O come and save us with your mighty power. 19 December - O stock of Jesse, you stand as a signal for the nations; kings fall silent before you whom the peoples acclaim. O come to deliver us, and do not delay. 20 December - O key of David and sceptre of Israel, what you open no one else can close again; what you close no one can open. O come to lead the captive from prison; free those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death. 21 December - O Rising Sun, you are the splendour of eternal light and the sun of justice. O come and enlighten those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death. 22 December - O King whom all the peoples desire, you are the cornerstone which makes all one. O come and save man whom you made from clay. 23 December - O Immanuel, you are our king and judge, the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour. O come and save us, Lord, our God. ... leading to: Christmas Eve - When the sun rises in the heavens you will see the king of kings. He comes forth from the Father like a bridegroom coming in splendour from his wedding chamber. Christmas Day - Today Christ is born, today the Saviour has appeared; today the angels sing on earth, the archangels rejoice; today upright men shout out for joy: Glory be to God on high, alleluia.