Lo How a Rose E'er Blooming
Frederica von Stade Boyschoir & Orchestra Lyrics


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Lo, how a rose e'er blooming
From tender stem hath sprung!
Of Jesse's lineage coming,
As men of old have sung
It came a flow'ret bright,
Amid the cold of winter
When half-spent was the night
Isaiah 'twas foretold it,
The rose I have in mind
With Mary we behold it,
The Virgin Mother kind
To show God's love aright




She bore to men a Savior
When half-spent was the night

Overall Meaning

The song "Lo How A Rose E'er Blooming" is a beautiful Christmas carol that explores the symbolism of the rose in relation to the birth of Jesus Christ. The lyrics describe a rose that blooms from a tender stem, representing the miraculous birth of Jesus from the virgin Mary. The mention of Jesse's lineage refers to the biblical genealogy of Jesus, tracing his ancestry back to King David. This highlights the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies regarding the coming of the Messiah.


The song emphasizes the contrast between the blooming rose and the cold winter night. This symbolizes the arrival of Jesus, the light of the world, during a time of darkness and despair. The reference to Isaiah implies that the birth of Jesus was foretold in the Old Testament, further reinforcing the significance of this event.


The role of Mary as the Virgin Mother is also highlighted, acknowledging her privilege to give birth to the Savior. By bearing Jesus, Mary exemplifies God's love for humanity, illustrating his desire to save mankind from sin and bring light and hope into the world.


Overall, "Lo How A Rose E'er Blooming" celebrates the birth of Jesus as a pivotal moment in history, underscoring the fulfillment of ancient prophecies and the expression of God's love through the Virgin Mary.


Line by Line Meaning

Lo, how a rose e'er blooming
Behold, the miracle of a rose that is blossoming


From tender stem hath sprung!
It has emerged from a delicate stem!


Of Jesse's lineage coming,
This rose has descended from the lineage of Jesse


As men of old have sung
As the tales of ancient times have been sung


It came a flow'ret bright,
It arrived as a radiant flower


Amid the cold of winter
During the harshness of winter's chill


When half-spent was the night
At a time when the night was almost over


Isaiah 'twas foretold it,
Isaiah had prophesied about it


The rose I have in mind
This is the rose I am referring to


With Mary we behold it,
Together with Mary, we witness its presence


The Virgin Mother kind
The compassionate Virgin Mother


To show God's love aright
To demonstrate God's love in the correct way


She bore to men a Savior
She gave birth to a Savior for humanity


When half-spent was the night
During a time when the night was almost over




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Kolner Gesangbuch

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

multuminparvo5

Lo, how a rose e’er blooming,
On tender root has grown.
A Rose by prophet’s singing,
To all the world made known.

The Rose ‘midst winter’s cold;
A lonely blossom bearing,
In former days foretold.

This Rose then of my story,
Isaiah did proclaim.
What God ordain’d in glory,
By blessed Mary came.
The Child the Virgin bore,
The world’s salvation bringing
Through Him for evermore.

The Rosebud small and tender
Gives fragrance every day.
And by It’s brilliant splendor
Makes darkness pass away.

True God, true Man, we pray,
Help us in ev’ry sorrow,
And guard us on our way.



All comments from YouTube:

Marcia Weber

One of my favorites!! My son, Collin, was at The American Boychoir School at the time (the blond next to Ms. von Strade). I watch his each year for the last 20, and I'm always moved. What an honor!

Marcia Weber

@Bob Zeschin not professionally.

Bob Zeschin

Did he continue with music into adulthood?

arlene hensley

You can't beat this beautiful voice and the professional way she sings it.

Petuniannilly

She sang "Lo" and my tears began to flow. Such a moving carol and sung so beautifully.

Linda Garden

Wishing I could be in San Francisco tonight to attend the tribute to Flicka by an all-star cast of her dear friends: Kiri, Suzi, Joyce, Sam et al. Flicka is the epitome of artistry, warmth and grace. Thank You, Dear Flicka for enriching my life for so many years. You ARE Christmas to me.

1PapaElk

My appreciation for placing this here, what a comfort from God to hear this woman sing praise for our Saviour.  Melts one heart.

Zuzanna Wisniewska

Thank you very much. 2022.

varadero1839

1PapaElk Hi PapaElk,
I posted this, and hearing her perform is a blessing indeed! Thanks so much for you comment.
Best regards,
varadero

Sophia Keller

Outstanding rendition of this exquisite ancient carol... one of the great jewels of the Christmas treasury.  Thank you so much for sharing.

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