SUNESIOS VAN KURENE, HIMNE 6: VERTALING EN KOMMENTAAR
Abstract
Following a translation of hymn 6 in Afrikaans, and a few remarks on its structure and nature, an analysis of this christological hymn is provided in the form of a commentary on each of the 7 strophes. Several "perspectives" occur throughout the hymn, namely that of praise (strophes 1 and 3), prayer (2/7), historical reference (4), liturgical context (5), while the hymn concludes with a cosmic perspective (6). Although the hymn lacks a clear philosophical and theological reflection, and is characterised by a soberness absent from hymns 7-8, which constitute with hymn 6 his christological trilogy, Synesius nevertheless shows forth the distinct nature of his poetry as hymn of praise. In the "historical" section of his hymn he uses the amazement of the Magi to contrast human wisdom with divine omniscience, while interpreting the gifts of the Magi allegorically in order to arouse his audience to participate in the praise of Christ, the Son of God and the virgin.
Published
2014-03-30
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