Agnus Dei
Hill David/Winchester Cathedral Choir Lyrics
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Qui tollis peccata mundi,
Miserere nobis.
Agnus Dei,
Qui tollis peccata mundi,
Miserere nobis.
Qui tollis peccata mundi,
Dona nobis pacem.
The lyrics to Hill David/Winchester Cathedral Choir's song "Agnus Dei" are in Latin and are a prayer to Jesus Christ, known as the Lamb of God. The prayer consists of three repeated lines, with slight variations in each. The first line, "Agnus Dei," translates to "Lamb of God" and is a reference to John the Baptist's description of Jesus in the Bible. The next line, "Qui tollis peccata mundi," translates to "who takes away the sins of the world." This line acknowledges Jesus' role as the savior of humanity and the one who carries the burden of their sins. The final line in the first two verses, "Miserere nobis," translates to "have mercy on us," further emphasizing the need for God's forgiveness and compassion.
In the last verse, the final line changes to "Dona nobis pacem," which translates to "grant us peace." This line is a plea for peace and harmony in a world that is often fraught with conflict and suffering. The repetition of the three lines throughout the song creates a sense of reverence and humility, as if the singer is begging for forgiveness and mercy.
Line by Line Meaning
Agnus Dei
Lamb of God
Qui tollis peccata mundi
Who takes away the sins of the world
Miserere nobis
Have mercy on us
Dona nobis pacem
Grant us peace
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Samuel Barber
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind