The O Antiphons are prayed during Vespers from December 17 to December 23.
Since Advent is a time of preparation, where we recall our need for a Savior, these antiphons speak the words of the prophets who
prefigure the coming of the Messiah.
Each antiphon begins with the word “O,” followed by a title for the Messiah, and a petition for Jesus to come and save the people of God by fulfilling the Scriptures.
Below are the O Antiphon’s for each day as well as a scriptural verse from the Old Testament that it is in reference to.
December 17: O Sapientia “O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love:
come to teach us the path of knowledge!”
Sirach 24:3: “From the mouth of the Most High I came forth, and like mist covered the earth”.
December 18: O Adonai “O Lord of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue
us with your mighty power!”
Micah 5:2 “But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall
come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.”
December 19: O Radix Jesse “O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save
us without delay!”
Isaiah 11:10 “On that day the root of Jesse shall stand as a signal to the peoples; the nations shall inquire
of him, and his dwelling shall be glorious.”
December 20: O Clavis David “O Key of David opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and
free the prisoners of darkness!”
Isaiah 22:22 “I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David; he shall open, and no one shall
shut; he shall shut, and no one shall open.”
December 21: O Oriens “O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come and shine on
those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.”
Malachi 3:20: “For you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays.”
December 22: O Rex Gentium “O King of the Nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man,
whom you formed from the dust!”
Ps. 118:22 “The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.”
December 23: O Emmanuel “O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God!”
Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman is with child and shall
bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel.”
Visit Mary’s side altar on these days to see a display for each “O” Antiphon.
Through prayer, we prepare the manger of our hearts for the Lord of Hosts to dwell this Christmas.