AND HE SHALL PURIFY THE SONS OF LEVI

"And He Shall Purify the Sons of Levi" is a magnificent choral chorus drawn from George Frideric Händel’s legendary oratorio, Messiah. Based on the prophetic words of Malachi 3:3, the song captures the awe and rigorous preparation of the Advent season. It speaks of the Lord coming like a refiner's fire to cleanse His people—represented by the priestly "sons of Levi"—so that their offerings may be made in true righteousness.

For a choir, mastering this piece is both a thrilling challenge and a profound joy. The intricate, weaving vocal lines demand agility and precision, with the voices entering one after another to build a sense of continuous, refining motion. The sweeping runs on the word "purify" physically sing out the process of cleansing and renewal.

In Catholic and liturgical settings, this chorus serves beautifully as a formal Advent anthem or a striking Offertory piece. As the choir sings of offering "unto the Lord an offering in righteousness," it reminds the congregation that preparing for the Lord’s coming is a transformative work of the heart, calling us to bring our best and purest selves to the altar.