Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Ave, Generosa (Hildegard of Bingen)

Hail, girl of a noble house,  
shimmering and unpolluted,  
you, pupil in the eye of chastity,  
you, essence of sanctity,  
which was pleasing to God.  
   
For the Heavenly potion was poured into you  
in that the Heavenly word  
received a raiment of flesh in you.  

You are the lily that dazzles,
whom God knew before all others.

O most beautiful and delectable one;
how greatly God delighted in you!
In the clasp of His fire
He implanted in you so that
His son might be suckled by you.

Thus your womb held joy,
when the harmony of all Heaven chimed out from you,
because, Virgin, you carried the son of God
whence your chastity blazed in God.

Your flesh has known delight
like the grassland touched by dew
and immersed in its freshness:
so it was with you, O mother of all joy.

Now let the sunrise of joy be over all Ecclesia,
and let it resound in music
for the sweetest Virgin,
Mary compelling all praise,
mother of God.  Amen.

To hear this piece by Hildegard van Bingen, click on the video below:
--Hildegard of Bingen
Happy Feast of the Immaculate Conception!

Image source:  Bartholomé Estaban Perez Murillo, Immaculate Conception (1645-1655)

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