CPWI Hymnal ‎#771b

771b. O Zion, open wide thy gates

1 O Zion, open wide thy gates,
let symbols disappear;
a priest and victim, both in one,
the Truth himself, is here.

2 Aware of hidden deity,
the lowly Virgin brings
her newborn babe, with two young doves,
her humble offerings.

3 The agèd Simeon sees at last
his Lord, so long desired,
and Anna welcomes Israel's hope,
with holy rapture fired.

4 But silent knelt the mother blest
of the yet silent Word,
and pondering all things in her heart,
with speechless praise adored.

5 All glory to the Father be,
all glory to the Son,
all glory, Holy Ghost, to thee,
while endless ages run.

Text Information

• First Line: O Zion, open wide thy gates
• Latin Title: Praecursor altus luminis
• Author: Jean-Baptiste de Santeüil, 1630-1697
• Translator: Edward Caswall, 1814-1878 (alt.)
• Meter: C.M.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2010
• Topic: Saints' and Other Holy Days: The Presentation
• Notes: A fauxbourdon setting of BRISTOL is found at 40

Tune Information

• Name: BRISTOL
• Composer: Thomas Ravenscroft, c1592-c1635
• Meter: C.M.
• Key: G Major
• Source: Psalms, London, 1621