“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is a traditional Advent hymn that expresses longing for the Messiah’s arrival.
Originally written in Latin as “Veni, Veni, Emmanuel,” it dates back to the 8th or 9th century and is based on the “O Antiphons,” which are prayers used in the final days of Advent.
The English translation was completed by John Mason Neale in 1851, making it widely accessible.
The hymn’s haunting melody is derived from a 15th-century French processional tune, and its lyrics reflect themes of hope and redemption, emphasizing titles of Christ such as Emmanuel, Wisdom, and Key of David.
It remains a cherished part of Christmas celebrations, often sung in churches and during festive gatherings.
O Come O Come Emmanuel Lyrics
O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, O come, Thou Lord of might
Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai’s height
In ancient times didst give the law
In cloud, and majesty and awe
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel
O 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, O Israel
O come, Thou Dayspring, 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
O 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
O come, Thou Wisdom from on high
And order all things, far and nigh
To us the path of knowledge show
And cause us in her ways to go
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, desire of nations, bind
In one the hearts of all mankind
Bid Thou our sad divisions cease
And be Thyself our King of peace
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel
