O Come, O Come, Emmanuel - Enya

Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel is the second of my favorite Christmas carols. This rendition is performed by another of my favorite artists, Enya.

The origin of this carol is a little blurred.  The version we're accustomed to was arranged in the 19th Century.  The traditional music can be traced back to the 15th century (once again, explaining my love for this song), with possibly even 8th Century Gregorian roots, and the "lyrics" to the 12th Century. 

Generally, I prefer these carols to remain as true and simple as possible, but sometimes it's nice to mix up the flavor a bit.  Hence, the Enya version of Emmanuel, and the McKennitt version of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.

Christmas Blessings to All.

   

 

Oh come, Oh come, Emmanuel
To free your captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice, rejoice, Oh Israel
To you shall come Emmanuel

Oh come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan's tyranny
From depths of Hell Thy people save
And give them victory o'er the grave
Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, oh Israel

Oh come, Thou Day-Spring
Come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night
And death's dark shadows put to flight
Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, o Israel

Oh come, Thou Key of David, come
And open wide our heavenly home
Make safe the way that leads on high
And close the path to misery
Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, o Israel

Oh come, Oh come, Thou Lord of might
Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai's height
In ancient times did'st give the Law
In cloud, and majesty and awe
Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, o Israel