“Gaudete” might be the most well-known Christmas carol performed in Latin. Its up-tempo and joyous melody make it accessible for audiences who might not understand a word of the lyrics.
Thought to have been composed in the 16th century, “Gainey’s” was published in “Piae Cantiones,” a collection of Finnish and Swedish sacred songs in the early 1580s. It is typically performed with accompaniment.
Reflecting the joyous themes of “Gaudeyte,” this Sunday will mark the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. It is a special time in the Christian calendar, signaling a shift from a period of waiting to one of joy and anticipation as the celebration of Christ’s birth draws near. “Gaudete,” beautifully embodies this spirit of joy.
The Latin text of the song represents a quintessential 16th-century song of praise, conforming to the period’s typical format of a series of four-line stanzas, each prefaced by a two-line refrain, known in early English carols as the “burden.” While these carols varied in subject matter, they predominantly focused on themes such as the Virgin Mary, saints, or aspects of the Yuletide season, reflecting the prevalent religious and cultural narratives of the era.
The closed gate of Ezekiel referenced in “Gaudete,” refers to a prophecy from the Book of Ezekiel. Ezekiel 44:1-2 describes a closed gate in the temple that only the Lord can pass through.
This passage, and accordingly the verse in “Gaudete” are seen as a prophecy about the Virgin Mary and the birth of Jesus Christ. The “closed gate” is symbolically understood as Mary’s virginity, and the only one passing through the gate is seen as Jesus, signifying the virgin birth.
The upbeat “Gaudete” helps elevate the Advent season from the more melancholy carols associated with the first two Sundays. The song reminds us of the rejoicing that will soon come on Christmas which enables every person to ultimately experience eternal joy through Christ.
North State Journal has curated a selection of hymns for each week of Advent on our Spotify channel, including two versions of “Gaudete” that highlight the upbeat nature of the ancient tune.
