No one knows for sure how old they are, but the “O Antiphons” date back to at least the 8th century and may have been used for hundreds of years before that.
The “O Antiphons” are a series of chants that are used in Vespers over the last seven days of Advent in many Roman Catholic churches, as well as some Lutheran and Presbyterian churches.
The hymn, “O come, O come, Emmanuel” (in Latin, Veni Emmanuel) is a verse-by-verse paraphrase of these seven songs.
They are called the “O Antiphons” because the title of each begins with “O,” followed by a title of Jesus. If you are unaccustomed to Gregorian chant, these tunes may sound strange. However, many people find them conducive to prayer and meditation.
Why not make the “O Antiphons” a part of your evening prayers this Advent?
Whether they’re new to you or not, they can provide a uniquely ancient and modern way to pray this week, as you follow the link provided after each date to watch and listen to a online video (with the English translation) for each prayer:
December 17: O Sapientia (O Wisdom)
December 18: O Adonai (O Lord)
December 19: O Radix Jesse (O Root of Jesse)
December 20: O Clavis David (O Key of David)
December 21: O Oriens (O Dayspring)
December 22: O Rex Gentium (O King of the nations)
December 23: O Emmanuel (O With Us is God)
When you have prayed all seven of the “O Antiphons,” you will have presented perhaps the best Christmas “wish list” of all, praying for prudence (i.e., good judgment), freedom, help, liberty for captives, light for those in darkness, deliverance and salvation.
If you have prayed–or will pray this year–the “O Antiphons,” please leave a comment and share something about your experience.
