Sanctus
The Abbey School Choir Tewkesbury / Andrew Swait / Benjamin Nicholas Lyrics

The lyrics "Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus, Dominus Deus Sabaoth!" can be translated to "Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts!". This phrase is often used in religious contexts to express the holiness and majesty of God. The repetition of "Sanctus" emphasizes the absolute purity and divine nature of God, who is revered as the ultimate authority over all creation. The mention of "Dominus Deus Sabaoth" further emphasizes God's omnipotence and lordship over all heavenly hosts, highlighting the power and strength of the divine ruler. The exclamation point at the end adds intensity to the declaration, underscoring the reverence and awe that the singers express towards God.

Following the declaration of God's holiness and lordship, the lyrics continue with "Pleni sunt caeli et terra gloria tua." which means "Heaven and earth are full of your glory." This line reflects the idea that the glory of God is all-encompassing and fills both the celestial realms and the earthly domain. It conveys the belief that every aspect of creation bears witness to the greatness and splendor of God, and that divine glory is present everywhere, transcending all boundaries and realms. The imagery of the heavens and the earth being filled with God's glory evokes a sense of grandeur and magnificence, emphasizing the omnipresence and omnipotence of the divine.

The phrase "Hosanna in excelsis!" is a joyful exclamation that means "Hosanna in the highest!". It is a declaration of praise and adoration, expressing a heartfelt cry of worship and celebration. The use of "Hosanna", a term of Hebrew origin that signifies a plea for salvation or deliverance, further underscores the reverence and devotion of the singers towards God. By proclaiming "Hosanna in excelsis", the choir acknowledges God's supremacy and exaltation above all, lifting their voices in jubilant acclaim to the highest heavens. This final exclamation serves as a resounding climax to the song, culminating in a triumphant expression of praise and worship.

Overall, the lyrics of "Sanctus" in this choral piece convey a profound sense of reverence, awe, and adoration towards God. Through the repetition of sacred words like "Sanctus" and the powerful declarations of God's holiness, glory, and exaltation, the choir seeks to evoke a deep spiritual connection and sense of divine presence. The combination of Latin phrases and poetic imagery creates a majestic and transcendent atmosphere, inviting listeners to join in the choir's heartfelt proclamation of praise. Ultimately, the song serves as a magnificent tribute to the splendor and majesty of the Lord God of Hosts, inspiring awe and devotion in those who experience its sacred beauty.