Virga Jesse Floruit WAB 52
Anton Bruckner Lyrics


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Virga Jesse floruit:
Virgo Deum et hominem genuit:
Pacem Deus reddidit,
In se reconcilians ima summis.
Alleluia.

The branch from Jesse blooms:
A Virgin brings forth God and man:
God restores peace,




Reconciling in Himself the lowest with the highest.
Alleluia.

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Anton Bruckner's song Virga Jesse Floruit beautifully convey the essence of the nativity story. The first line refers to the prophesy from Isaiah that a branch will grow from the stump of Jesse, and this branch will bear fruit (Isaiah 11:1-10). Bruckner reflects on this prophesy and underscores that it has come to fruition in the Virgin Mary, who has birthed God and man, as stated in the second line of the song.


The third line speaks of God's great act of restoration and bringing peace into the world. This refers to the idea that through Jesus Christ, God reconciled humanity with Himself, restoring the relationship between God and man that was damaged by sin. Finally, the last line speaks of the reconciling power of God's action, bringing together the lowest and the highest. This is reminiscent of the words of Jesus that "the last shall be first, and the first shall be last" (Matthew 20:16). Bruckner ends the song with a resounding alleluia, a word that signifies praise and rejoicing.


Overall, Virga Jesse Floruit is a song that speaks of the beauty and miracle of the nativity story, reminding us of the hope and peace that the birth of Jesus brings. It is a powerful representation of Bruckner's skills as a composer, his ability to craft music that speaks to the soul and inspires the heart.


Line by Line Meaning

Virga Jesse floruit:
The branch from Jesse blooms:


Virgo Deum et hominem genuit:
A Virgin brings forth God and man:


pacem Deus reddidit,
God restores peace,


in se reconcilians ima summis.
reconciling in Himself the lowest with the highest.


Alleluia.
Alleluia.




Contributed by Owen E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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