This edition was prepared by Andreas Stenberg — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Hostis Herodes impie
Staff Notation • Sacred, Office hymns
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Hostis Herodes impie by Wolfgang Grefinger — Lyrics
1. Hostis Herodes impie,
Christum venire quid times?
Non eripit mortalia,
Qui regna dat caelestia.
2. Ibant magi, quam viderant,
Stellam sequentes praeviam:
Lumen requirunt lumine,
Deum fatentur munere.
3. Lavacra puri gurgitis
Caelestis Agnus attigit;
Peccata, quae non detulit,
Nos abluendo sustulit.
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About Hostis Herodes impie
This powerful setting of a Latin text is for SATB choir. The hymn Hostis Herodes impie is traditionally sung during the Christmas season, reflecting on the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles. It recounts the Magi's journey, the purification of Jesus in the Jordan, and the miracle at Cana. The text moves from the fear of Herod to the adoration of the Magi and culminates in a doxology praising God's appearance. Grefinger's composition provides a fitting musical frame for these significant theological events, suitable for services during Epiphany and Christmastide.
