O Antiphons: Advent Day Eighteen 18/12/24
Ever wondered why your parish starts singing different "O" prayers right before Christmas? You're about to discover one of the Catholic Church's most beautiful Advent traditions! The O Antiphons are seven powerful prayers that count down the final days before Christmas Eve. Think of them as spiritual countdown markers, each one revealing a different name for Jesus - and trust me, they're far more exciting than your average Advent calendar!
Why These Prayers Still Matter
These ancient prayers might be over 1,500 years old, but they speak to our modern hearts in marvellous ways. Each antiphon starts with "O" and gives Jesus a title that shows us who He is - like "O Wisdom," "O Key of David," or "O Emmanuel".
Let's explore the seven O Antiphons and their biblical foundations:
O Sapientia (O Wisdom) - December 17
Based on Isaiah 11:2-3: "The spirit of wisdom and understanding shall rest upon him." This antiphon recognises Christ as the eternal Wisdom of God who teaches us the path of knowledge.
O Adonai (O Lord) - December 18
Drawn from Exodus 6:6 and Isaiah 33:22: "The Lord himself will come and save us." This antiphon acknowledges Christ as the Lord who delivered Israel and gives us His laws of love.
O Radix Jesse (O Root of Jesse) - December 19
Referenced in Isaiah 11:1: "A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse." This antiphon celebrates Jesus as the promised descendant of King David's lineage.
O Clavis David (O Key of David) - December 20
Found in Isaiah 22:22: "I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David." This antiphon recognises Christ's authority to open the gates of heaven.
O Oriens (O Rising Sun) - December 21
Inspired by Malachi 4:2: "The sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings." This antiphon celebrates Christ as the Light of the World.
O Rex Gentium (O King of Nations) - December 22
Based on Isaiah 2:4: "He shall judge between the nations." This antiphon acknowledges Christ as the King of all peoples, uniting humanity in peace.
O Emmanuel (O God With Us) - December 23
Drawn from Isaiah 7:14: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Emmanuel." This final antiphon celebrates the fulfilment of God's promise to dwell among us.
St Bernard of Clairvaux said it best: "The name of Jesus is honey in the mouth, music to the ear, and joy in the heart." These antiphons help us taste that sweetness!
Think about it: Just like we have different (nick)names for our friends, these titles for Jesus help us connect with Him in personal ways.
Making It Real: Your Daily O Antiphon Guide
You might consider the following practical ways to practise this tradition this season:
- Set a daily reminder on your phone for 6 PM (traditional Vespers time)
- Follow along with the daily antiphon (you can find them in prayer apps!)
- Take 5 minutes to reflect on that day's title for Jesus
Today's Reflection
- Which of Jesus's titles speaks most to what you're going through right now?
- How can these ancient prayers help you prep for Christmas in a more meaningful way?
- What would you call Jesus based on your personal relationship with Him?
Make It Your Own
These prayers aren't just ancient history - they're your invitation to a deeper connection with Christ. Let them be your spiritual playlist this last week of Advent.
Prayer
Dear Lord, as we count down to Christmas, help us discover You in new ways through these beautiful prayers. Open our hearts to recognise You in all Your names and titles. Let these ancient words bring fresh meaning to our modern lives. Amen.
Your Challenge
Pick one O Antiphon that resonates with you and share it with someone this week.
God bless,
Mel
