If you’re looking for some uplifting and soulful hymns, then you’ll definitely want to check out “O Come Emmanuel.” This classic Catholic hymn is a beautiful reminder of the joy and hope that the Christmas season brings.
The Lyrics
“O Come Emmanuel” was originally written in Latin in the 12th century and has been translated into English over the centuries. The lyrics feature a call-and-response between the choir and the congregation, with each verse beginning with a plea for Emmanuel, which is a name for Jesus meaning “God with us.”
Here are the complete lyrics:
O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, Thou Wisdom from on high,
And order all things, far and nigh,
To us the path of knowledge show,
And teach us in her ways to go.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, O come, Thou Lord of might,
Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai’s height,
In ancient times did’st give the Law,
In cloud, and majesty, and awe.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan’s tyranny;
From depths of hell Thy people save,
And give them victory o’er the grave.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, Desire of nations, bind
All peoples in one heart and mind;
Bid envy, strife and quarrels cease;
Fill all the world with heaven’s peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
The Music
“O Come Emmanuel” is typically sung to the tune of “Veni Emmanuel,” which has a hauntingly beautiful melody that perfectly captures the hymn’s melancholic yet hopeful tone. The music builds throughout the verses, with the choir and congregation joining together in a soaring crescendo on the refrain.
This hymn is usually performed a cappella or with simple accompaniment, such as an organ or piano, to let the lyrics and melody shine. Some modern arrangements have incorporated more contemporary instruments, like guitar and drums, but the traditional version remains the most popular.
The Meaning
“O Come Emmanuel” is a song of longing and anticipation for the coming of Christ. It speaks to the deep desire in our hearts for God’s presence in our lives, and the hope that His coming brings.
The first verse references the Israelites who were exiled from their homeland and longed for a savior to deliver them. The other verses address Christ as the embodiment of Wisdom, Lawgiver, Savior, Light, and Prince of Peace, each emphasizing a different aspect of His character and mission on earth.
Overall, “O Come Emmanuel” is a powerful reminder of the significance of Christmas as a celebration of God becoming human and dwelling among us. It inspires us to rejoice in the gift of His presence and to eagerly await His return.
Conclusion
“O Come Emmanuel” is a beloved Christmas hymn that has been treasured by generations of Christians. Its timeless lyrics and haunting melody remind us of the hope and joy that come with Christ’s coming, and its call-and-response structure invites us to join together in praising and anticipating His arrival.
Whether you’re singing it in church, listening to a recording, or performing it yourself, “O Come Emmanuel” is sure to lift your spirits and fill your heart with the wonder of God’s love.
