Composer

:

Hildegard von Bingen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Responsory

Compose Date

:

ca. 1140 - 1179

Average_duration

:

5:44

'O viriditas digiti Dei' is a hymn composed by Hildegard von Bingen, a German Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, and philosopher of the 12th century. The hymn is part of her collection of liturgical songs known as the 'Symphonia armonie celestium revelationum' (Symphony of the Harmony of Celestial Revelations), which consists of 77 pieces of music and poetry. The hymn 'O viriditas digiti Dei' is believed to have been composed in the late 12th century, and it was likely premiered in the abbey of Rupertsberg, where Hildegard lived and worked. The hymn is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the opening phrase, "O viriditas digiti Dei," which translates to "O greenness of the finger of God." The melody is simple and repetitive, with a gentle rhythm that evokes the image of a flowing stream or a gentle breeze. The lyrics praise the beauty and vitality of nature, which Hildegard saw as a reflection of God's creative power. The second movement features a more complex melody, with multiple voices singing in harmony. The lyrics continue to celebrate the beauty of nature, but also emphasize the importance of spiritual renewal and transformation. The imagery is rich and vivid, with references to the sun, moon, stars, and the four elements of earth, air, fire, and water. The final movement returns to the simplicity of the opening, with a solo voice singing the closing phrase, "O viriditas digiti Dei." The melody is slightly different, with a more contemplative tone that suggests a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of God's creation. Overall, 'O viriditas digiti Dei' is a beautiful and evocative hymn that reflects Hildegard's deep reverence for nature and her belief in the interconnectedness of all things. The music is characterized by its simplicity, repetition, and gentle rhythms, which create a sense of peace and harmony that is both soothing and uplifting.

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