Audivi vocem de caelo
John Taverner Lyrics


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cudivi vocem de caelo venientem :
Venite omnes virgines sapientissime,
Oleum recondite in vasis vestris
Dum sponsus advenerit.
 
Media autem nocte clamor factus est :
Ecce sponsus venit exite obviam ei.




Overall Meaning

The lyrics of John Taverner's song "Audivi vocem de caelo" can be interpreted as a call to wisdom and preparation for the arrival of the bridegroom. The phrase "Cudivi vocem de caelo venientem" translates to "I heard a voice coming from heaven." This suggests a divine message or revelation that is being conveyed to the listeners.


The next line, "Venite omnes virgines sapientissime," can be translated as "Come, all you wise virgins." This can be seen as a metaphorical invitation to those who possess wisdom to gather and heed the message from heaven. The mention of virgins could symbolize purity of heart and mind, suggesting that only those who are spiritually prepared and receptive can fully understand and respond to the divine call.


The following line, "Oleum recondite in vasis vestris," translates to "Store oil in your vessels." This line alludes to the parable of the ten virgins in the Gospel of Matthew, where the wise virgins had extra oil for their lamps while the foolish ones did not. The oil here can be interpreted as a symbol of spiritual readiness and preparation for the arrival of the bridegroom, who represents Christ or a heavenly figure.


The last line, "Dum sponsus advenerit," can be translated as "While the bridegroom arrives." This line emphasizes the need to be prepared and vigilant at all times, as one never knows when the arrival of the bridegroom, a metaphorical representation of a divine presence, will take place. The mention of "media autem nocte" or "midnight" suggests the idea of unexpectedness and urgency in being ready.


Overall, these lyrics convey a sense of urgency and the importance of spiritual readiness for the imminent arrival of a divine presence.


Line by Line Meaning

cudivi vocem de caelo venientem
I heard a voice coming from heaven


Venite omnes virgines sapientissime
Come, all you wise virgins


Oleum recondite in vasis vestris
Hide oil in your vessels


Dum sponsus advenerit
Until the bridegroom arrives


Media autem nocte clamor factus est
In the middle of the night, there was a cry


Ecce sponsus venit exite obviam ei
Behold, the bridegroom is coming, go out to meet him




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS

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Comments from YouTube:

@altareggo

Wow!! Taverner is one of the Renaissance's most under-rated composers EVAH!! Thanks so much for this.

@lauriethompson740

Heard Stile Antico perform this last night at the Wigmore Hall, and was blown away by its resonant beauty, a master class in 'stunning simplicity' in my view

@vernonwarner7402

Excellent heartfelt performance , thank you

@hudsonbailey674

Absolutely sublime!

@luisortega4991

So beautiful. Thank you!!!

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