O ANTIPHON Meaning and
Definition
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O Antiphons are a series of ancient liturgical chants or prayers that are traditionally recited or sung during the period of Advent in Christian liturgy. They are called "O Antiphons" because each chant begins with an invocation of the Messiah using a different title or attribute, beginning with the word "O." These antiphons are primarily known in the Western Christian traditions and are associated with the Roman Catholic Church and Anglican liturgy.
The O Antiphons are rooted in the Old Testament prophecies that foretell the coming of the Messiah. They draw upon various biblical passages, especially from the Book of Isaiah. The seven antiphons are called by distinct names: O Sapientia (O Wisdom), O Adonai (O Lord), O Radix Jesse (O Root of Jesse), O Clavis David (O Key of David), O Oriens (O Dayspring), O Rex Gentium (O King of the Nations), and O Emmanuel (O God with us).
These antiphons are traditionally chanted or sung during the Magnificat at the evening prayer service known as Vespers, starting from December 17th and leading up to Christmas Eve. Each antiphon highlights different aspects of the Messiah's role and attributes, encapsulating the hopes and longings of the faithful during the Advent season. They have also inspired hymns, prayers, and reflections that are used in devotional practices and liturgical celebrations related to Advent and the anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Etymology of O ANTIPHON
The word "antiphon" comes from the Greek word "antiphōna" (ἀντίφωνα), which is derived from the prefix "anti-" meaning "opposite" or "against", and "phōnē" (φωνή) meaning "voice" or "sound". Thus, "antiphōna" can be understood as "sounding against" or "response".
The word "o" in "O Antiphon" serves as a vocative interjection expressing excitement or longing. It is commonly used in liturgical texts and hymns, particularly during Advent, as a way to address or invoke a person or deity. In the context of "O Antiphons", it is used to address Jesus Christ.
