This edition was prepared by Klaas Spijker — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Christe, der du bist Tag und licht
Staff Notation • Sacred, Motets
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Christe, der du bist Tag und licht by Samuel Scheidt — Lyrics
after Christe qui lux es et dies (c.600)
1.
Christe, der du bist Tag und Licht,
vor dir ist, Herr, verborgen nichts;
du väterlichen Lichtes Glanz
lehr uns den Weg der Wahrheit ganz.
2.
Wir bitten dein göttliche Kraft:
behüt uns, Herr, in dieser Nacht,
bewahr uns, Herr, vor allem Leid,
Gott, Vater der Barmherzigkeit.
3.
Vertreib den schweren Schlaf, Herr Christ,
daß uns nicht schad des Feindes List;
das Fleisch in Züchten reine sei,
so sind wir mancher Sorge frei.
4.
So unsre Augen schlafen schier,
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About Christe, der du bist Tag und licht
Samuel Scheidt's motet Christe, der du bist Tag und Licht is a substantial sacred work for double choir (SATB.SATB), with opportunities for smaller divisions of voices. The text, a German paraphrase of the Latin antiphon Christe qui lux es et dies, is a prayer for protection through the night and for spiritual vigilance. The composer's mastery of contrapuntal writing and textural contrast is evident throughout, making this a powerful and moving setting of profound devotional texts. The motet explores themes of divine light, guidance, and protection from spiritual foes, asking Christ to keep the hearts of believers awake even as their bodies sleep. Its rich sonority and earnest plea make it a compelling choice for liturgical or concert use.
