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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2:17

O Radix Jesse is an antiphon that is part of the O Antiphons, which are seven antiphons that are sung or recited during the week leading up to Christmas Eve. The O Antiphons are believed to have originated in the 8th century and are an important part of the liturgical tradition of the Catholic Church. The antiphon O Radix Jesse is based on a passage from the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament, which prophesies the coming of the Messiah from the root of Jesse, the father of King David. The text of the antiphon is as follows: 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, standing as a sign among the peoples; before you kings will shut their mouths, to you the nations will make their prayer: Come and deliver us, and delay no longer. The melody of O Radix Jesse is a Gregorian chant, which is a type of plainchant that is named after Pope Gregory I, who is believed to have codified the chant in the 6th century. The Gregorian chant is characterized by its simple melody, which is sung in unison by a choir or congregation. The chant is also known for its use of neumes, which are symbols that indicate the shape and direction of the melody. O Radix Jesse is typically sung on December 19th, which is the fifth day of the O Antiphons. The antiphon is part of the Vespers service, which is a liturgical service that is held in the evening. The Vespers service includes psalms, hymns, and readings from the Bible, as well as the O Antiphons. Overall, O Radix Jesse is a beautiful and powerful antiphon that expresses the longing for the coming of the Messiah. The Gregorian chant melody adds to the solemnity and reverence of the text, making it a beloved part of the Christmas liturgy.

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