O Oriens: O Dayspring

The 5th of the Advent 'O Antiphons' is inspired by these words of the prophet Isaiah, often read at Christmas services:
"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who live in a land of deep darkness - on them has light shined." Isaiah 9:2
For those of us who live in the Northern Hemisphere it seems especially appropriate to read these words today 21 December, which has the shortest hours of daylight of the year. After today we can look forward to the nights getting shorter and the days longer. The deeper meaning for Christians is the association with Christ the Light of the World coming into its spiritual darkness. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
"O Morning Star,splendour of light eternal and son of righteousness:come and enlighten those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death."

Here's a beautiful Gregorian chant version with solo tenor voice:





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