Musical Offerings ⦁ 2021 ⦁ Volume 12 ⦁ Number 2 67 Example 1: Hildegard von Bingen, “O dulcissime amator” from Symphonia virginum. 8 After acknowledging possible temptation, Hildegard writes of purification in Strophe 4, “Tamen confidimus in te, quod tu desideres gemmam requirere in putredine.” (Yet we have put our trust in you, for you desire to seek again a gem in putrefaction.)9 Hildegard begins the comparison between Jesus as the Savior of the church and Christ the bridegroom of the church, a theme she picks up in Strophe 5. Nunc advocamus te, sponsum et consolatorem, qui nos redemisti in cruce. Now unto you we cry, our bridegroom and our consolation, who has redeemed us on the Cross.10 Christ the Savior delivers them from temptation so they can better reflect the picture of the church as a pure (virginal) bride in Strophe 6. In tuo sanguine copulate sumus tibi cum desponsatione, repudiantes virum et eligentes te, Filium Dei. For in your blood we are betrothed to you— your blood our wedding gift; for mortal husbands we refuse, choosing you instead, the Son of God.11 Hildegard, and those at the convent, remained unmarried to give themselves in service to church and maintain a closer connection to God. 8 Campbell, “O dulcissime amator.” 9 Campbell, “O dulcissime amator.” 10 Campbell, “O dulcissime amator.” 11 Campbell, “O dulcissime amator.”
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