Nunc dimittis
Choir of Merton College Oxford & Benjamin Nicholas Lyrics
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peace: according to thy word.
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation: which thou hast prepared before the face of
all people
to be a light to lighten the gentiles:
and to be the glory of thy people Israel. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to
the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever
world without end. Amen.
The lyrics of "Nunc dimittis" are a Latin text that comes from the biblical passage known as the Song of Simeon or Canticle of Simeon. It is a beautiful and contemplative hymn that captures the moment when Simeon, a devout man who had been waiting for the coming of the Messiah, sees the infant Jesus in the temple. Simeon is filled with joy and a sense of fulfillment, knowing that he has now witnessed God's promised salvation.
The song begins with the words "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace: according to thy word." Here, Simeon expresses his readiness to depart from this world in peace, as he has now seen the fulfillment of God's promise. He acknowledges God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His word.
The following lines state, "For mine eyes have seen thy salvation: which thou hast prepared before the face of all people, to be a light to lighten the gentiles: and to be the glory of thy people Israel." Simeon recognizes that the baby Jesus is the long-awaited Savior, the fulfillment of God's salvation plan. He understands that Jesus is not only the Messiah for the Jewish people but also a light for all nations, including the gentiles. Simeon's joy comes from the realization that through Jesus, salvation is offered to everyone.
The song concludes with the words "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: world without end. Amen." These words affirm the eternal and unchanging nature of God's glory and capture the belief in the Holy Trinity.
Overall, "Nunc dimittis" is a powerful expression of faith, gratitude, and fulfillment. It celebrates the coming of Jesus as the promised Messiah and the hope He brings for the salvation of all people.
Line by Line Meaning
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace: according to thy word.
Lord, now you release your servant to depart in peace, as you promised.
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation: which thou hast prepared before the face of all people
Because my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people to witness.
to be a light to lighten the gentiles:
To serve as a guiding light, illuminating the gentiles with divine understanding.
and to be the glory of thy people Israel.
And to bring honor and pride to your people, Israel.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Let there be honor and praise given to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: world without end. Amen.
May this honor and praise continue from the beginning of time, throughout eternity. Amen.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: George Dyson
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind