The “O” Antiphons

These very ancient verses, probably dating from at least the sixth century, are used in daily prayer in the last days of Advent.

The hymn O come, O come Emmanuel is a paraphrase of them.

The titles given to the Messiah are all to be found in prophecy.

O Oriens    21 December

 Splendour of light eternal and sun of righteousness:
Come and enlighten those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.

Oriens   Light, Dayspring      Isaiah 9:2,    Isaiah 60:1-2

As we await the coming of our Lord, we pray “Even so come, Lord Jesus”.