O nata lux
Voces8 & Christian Forshaw Lyrics
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Jesu redemptor saeculi
Dignare clemens supplicum
Laudes precesque sumere
Qui carne quondam contegi
Dignatus es pro perditis
Nos membra confer effici
--
O Light born of Light
Jesus, redeemer of the world
With loving-kindness deign to receive
Suppliant praise and prayer
Thou who once deigned to be clothed in flesh
For the sake of the lost
Grant us to be members
Of thy blessed body
The Latin hymn "O Nata Lux" has been set to music by many composers over the centuries, including the modern arrangement by Voces8 and Christian Forshaw. The text of the hymn asks for the light of Christ to shine on the supplicants, for Christ to receive their praises and supplications with loving-kindness, and for them to be granted the privilege of being members of Christ's blessed body. The hymn is a perfect example of the humility and reverence for Christ that is present in so many religious texts.
The opening lines of "O Nata Lux" are particularly beautiful in the way they convey the divine nature of Christ. "O Light born of Light" invokes Christ's divinity, stating that He is of the same essence as God. The lyric "Thou who once deigned to be clothed in flesh" is also significant, as it acknowledges Christ's human nature and His willingness to take on our humanity in order to save us.
Overall, the hymn asks for Christ's mercy and to be united with Him as members of his body. The tenderness and humility of the lyrics exemplify the devotion and piety of the faithful.
Line by Line Meaning
O nata lux de lumine
Oh born light from light
Jesu redemptor saeculi
Jesus, redeemer of the world
Dignare clemens supplicum
Oh merciful one, deign to accept supplication
Laudes precesque sumere
To receive hymns and prayers
Qui carne quondam contegi
Who once deigned to be clothed in flesh
Dignatus es pro perditis
For the sake of the lost, you have deigned
Nos membra confer effici
Grant that we may become members
Tui beati corporis
Of your blessed body
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Thomas Tallis
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind