Today begins the addition of the O Antiphons to the liturgy of Advent. The O Antiphons, also known as the Great Advent Antiphons, are canticles (songs) used in traditional Christian worship during the last days of Advent, from December 16-23, leading up to the high feast day of Christmas. These antiphons are the basis for the beloved Christmas hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”. Each antiphon is rich with theology and biblical imagery, pulling from Old Testament prophecies and their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus’ incarnation. It is likely that they originated in Italy sometime during the sixth century, and have been widely used since the eighth century.
Traditionally, one antiphon is sung during Advent vespers each day, building on the anticipation of the arrival of the Messiah at the Feast of the Nativity (December 25). While the antiphons are written to be used in corporate worship, they can be used in personal devotions. We encourage you follow along with each antiphon during the period of December 16-December 23 during the Daily Office, and personal or family prayer. If you would like to sing them there are several excellent videos on YouTube. For additional resources about the O Antiphons, please see the recommended resources below.
O Sapientia (December 16)
O Wisdom of our God Most High,
guiding creation with power and love:
come to teach us the path of knowledge!
O Adonai (December 17)
O Leader of the House of Israel,
giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai:
come to rescue us with your mighty power!
O Radix Jesse (December 18)
O Root of Jesse’s stem,
sign of God’s love for all his people:
come to save us without delay!
O Clavis David (December 19)
O Key of David,
opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom:
come and free the prisoners of darkness!
O Oriens (December 20)
O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:
come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.
O Rex Gentium (December 21)
O King of all nations and keystone of the Church:
come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!
O Emmanuel (December 22)
O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law:
come to save us, Lord our God!
O Virgo Virginum (December 23)
O Virgin of Virgins, how shall this be? For neither before you was any like you, nor shall there be after. Daughters of Jerusalem, why do you marvel at me? That which you behold is a divine mystery.
Recommended Resources
- Waiting on the Word: A poem a day for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany by Malcolm Guite
- The Liturgical Home: Advent by Ashley Tumlin Wallace
- The Great Advent O Antiphons (English)
- O Antiphons and Magnifcat (Latin)
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