Composer

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Gregorian Chant

Genre

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Choral

Style

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Chant

Average_duration

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1:23

"Te lucis ante terminum" is a hymn from the Compline, the final service of the monastic day. It is a Gregorian chant in mode 8, which is characterized by a descending melody and a range of a fifth. The hymn is traditionally sung at the end of the day, before retiring to bed, and is a prayer for protection during the night. The exact date of composition of "Te lucis ante terminum" is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the early Christian church, possibly in the 4th or 5th century. The text of the hymn is attributed to St. Ambrose, the Bishop of Milan in the 4th century, who is also credited with composing several other hymns. The hymn has been a part of the Compline service since the early Middle Ages and has been sung in monasteries and churches throughout the world. It has also been set to music by many composers, including Palestrina, Tallis, and Byrd. "Te lucis ante terminum" consists of four verses, each with a refrain. The text is a prayer for protection during the night, asking for the intercession of the Virgin Mary and the saints. The first verse begins with the words "Te lucis ante terminum" (Before the ending of the day), and the refrain is "Procul recedant somnia" (Let all dreams depart). The second verse asks for protection from the devil and his temptations, and the refrain is "Et noctium phantasmata" (And the phantoms of the night). The third verse asks for protection from sin and the fear of death, and the refrain is "Hostemque nostrum comprime" (Crush our enemy). The final verse is a prayer for peace and rest, and the refrain is "Ne polluantur corpora" (That our bodies may not be defiled). The hymn ends with the words "Sit laus Patri cum Filio, Sancto simul Paraclito" (Praise be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit). Overall, "Te lucis ante terminum" is a beautiful and timeless hymn that has been sung for centuries as a prayer for protection and peace during the night. Its simple melody and powerful text continue to inspire and comfort people of all faiths.

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