The O Antiphon “O Radix Jesse” holds a significant place in the liturgical tradition of Advent. These antiphons, chanted or recited during Vespers in the final days before Christmas, encapsulate Old Testament prophecies and their fulfillment in Christ. Each antiphon addresses Jesus with a different messianic title, derived from Scripture, and concludes with a petition for His coming. “O Radix Jesse,” translated as “O Root of Jesse,” is sung on December 19th and reflects the messianic hope rooted in God’s covenantal promises.
The imagery of the root comes directly from Isaiah 11:1: “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” Jesse, the father of King David, symbolizes the lineage through which the Messiah would come. The prophecy speaks of renewal and life springing forth from what appears lifeless. By calling Jesus the “Root of Jesse,” the antiphon acknowledges Him as the fulfillment of this prophecy and the source of new life for the people of God.
The full text of the antiphon is:
O Radix Jesse, qui stas in signum populorum, super quem continebunt reges os suum, quem Gentes deprecabuntur: veni ad liberandum nos, jam noli tardare.
In English, it translates:
O Root of Jesse, who stands as a sign for the peoples, before whom kings shall shut their mouths, to whom the nations shall make their supplication: come and deliver us, and do not delay.
This prayer not only identifies Jesus as the promised Redeemer but also emphasizes His universal kingship. The phrase “before whom kings shall shut their mouths” reflects the awe and reverence due to Christ’s authority, echoing Isaiah 52:15. The petition at the end—“come and deliver us”—captures the Advent longing for Christ’s arrival, both in the celebration of His Nativity and His ultimate return in glory.
The significance of “O Radix Jesse” extends beyond its poetic beauty. It reminds us that Jesus’ mission is deeply rooted in salvation history. God’s promises to Israel, symbolized by the tree of Jesse, find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ. This continuity reassures us that God is faithful to His word and works tirelessly for our redemption.
Furthermore, “O Radix Jesse” invites reflection on the universality of Christ’s mission. The antiphon’s reference to nations and kings underscores that Jesus is not merely the Savior of Israel but of all humanity. His kingship transcends earthly power, uniting peoples of every culture and language under His reign of peace and justice.
As we meditate on “O Radix Jesse,” we are called to place our hope in Christ, who brings life from barren places and fulfills the deepest longings of the human heart. It is a reminder that, just as a seemingly dead stump can give rise to new growth, so too can our lives bear fruit through the grace of God. This antiphon encourages us to trust in God’s plan, even when the way forward seems unclear, and to prepare our hearts for the coming of our King.
In this Advent season, let us echo the plea of “O Radix Jesse”: Come, Lord Jesus, and do not delay. Bring us life, hope, and salvation as we await the fullness of Your kingdom.
Crux Stationalis 