O nata lux
The Zurich Chamber Singers Lyrics

The lyrics of "O nata lux" by The Zurich Chamber Singers are a Latin hymn that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and his redemptive role in the world. The opening line, "O nata lux de lumine" translates to "O Light born from light." This line speaks to the divine nature of Jesus, emphasizing his origin from the ultimate source of light.

The following line, "Jesu redemptor saeculi," translates to "Jesus, redeemer of the world." This highlights Jesus' role as the one who saves humanity from sin and offers redemption. The lyrics then continue, "Dignare clemens supplicum," which means "Be merciful, O kind one, towards your supplicants." Here, the singers express a plea for Jesus' merciful acceptance of their prayers and praises.

The final two lines of the stanza, "Laudes precesque sumere" and "Qui carne quondam contegi," translate to "Accept the praises and prayers" and "Who once deigned to be cloaked in flesh," respectively. These lines acknowledge Jesus' incarnation, where he took on human form to redeem humanity. The last two lines, "Dignatus es pro perditis / Nos membra confer effici / Tui beati corporis," can be understood as an appeal for Jesus to unite them as members of his blessed body, emphasizing their desire to be a part of his redemptive work.

Overall, "O nata lux" is a hymn that praises Jesus as the bringer of light, the redeemer of the world, and appeals for his mercy and inclusion in his redemptive mission.