Composer

:

Hildegard von Bingen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Antiphon

Compose Date

:

ca. 1140 - 1179

Average_duration

:

3:30

'O beata infantia' is a sacred vocal composition composed by Hildegard von Bingen, a German composer, writer, and mystic of the 12th century. The piece is a hymn in honor of the Holy Innocents, the children who were killed by King Herod in his attempt to kill the infant Jesus. The composition is believed to have been composed in the late 12th century, during Hildegard's time as the abbess of the Rupertsberg convent. It is one of the many liturgical works that she composed during her lifetime, and is considered to be one of her most beautiful and haunting compositions. 'O beata infantia' is a monophonic chant, meaning that it is sung by a single voice without any accompanying instruments. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which has its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is a joyful and celebratory hymn in honor of the Holy Innocents. It begins with the words "O beata infantia, quae te suscipit Christus," which translate to "O blessed infancy, which Christ receives." The melody is lively and upbeat, with a sense of joy and celebration that reflects the innocence and purity of the children who were martyred. The second movement is a mournful lament for the children who were killed by Herod. It begins with the words "O vos omnes, qui transitis per viam, attendite et videte," which translate to "O all you who pass by the way, pay attention and see." The melody is slow and mournful, with a sense of sadness and grief that reflects the tragedy of the children's deaths. The third movement is a prayer for the souls of the Holy Innocents, asking for their intercession and protection. It begins with the words "Sancti Innocentes, vos ad regna caelorum pervenistis," which translate to "Holy Innocents, you have reached the kingdom of heaven." The melody is peaceful and serene, with a sense of calm and tranquility that reflects the hope and faith of the faithful. Overall, 'O beata infantia' is a beautiful and moving composition that reflects Hildegard's deep spirituality and devotion to the Christian faith. Its three movements capture the full range of emotions associated with the Holy Innocents, from joy and celebration to sadness and grief, and ultimately to hope and faith in the promise of eternal life.

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