O magnum mysterium [misterium] (Gradualia . . . liber secundus [1607])

O Great Mystery

Voicing:
Mixed Choir → SATB

Accompaniment:
Unaccompanied

Function/Language(s):
Latin

Occasion:

Proper of Time → Christmas Season → The Nativity of the Lord → General

Publication Information:
Oxford University Press — TCM 140 (1996, 2000)
ISBN 0-19-352247-0

Text Information:
Reference: Responsory IV, Matins of Christmas Day
Source: Liturgy of the Hours

Lyrics:

O magnum mysterium, et admirabile sacramentum,
ut animalia viderent Dominum natum, 
jacentem in praesepio.
Beata Virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt
portare Dominum Christum.  

Ave Maria, gratia plena,
Dominus tecum.

Beata Virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt
portare Dominum Christum.

English translation:
O great mystery and wonderful sacrament,
That animals should see the Lord 
born lying in a manger.
O Blessed Virgin, whose womb was worthy
to carry Christ the Lord.

Hail Mary, full of grace;
the Lord is with you.

Blessed is the Virgin whose womb was privileged
to carry Christ the Lord.

Notes: Includes the versicle “Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum.” This is the original text as found in the Divine Office, 1963 edition in Latin and English.
Submitted by: Brian Luckner Added: Oct 27, 2021 Last updated: Dec 13, 2022