This piece is Psalm 51, but first set to music by Allegri around 1630. It is one of the finest and most popular examples of renaissance polyphony. It is often heard in Churches of the apostolic Christian tradition on Ash Wednesday, immediately following Shrove (or pancake) Tuesday, marking Christ's return to Jerusalem. Beautifully performed here by The Sixteen, listen out for the simplicity, humility and reverence.
PSALM 51
1
[For the choirmaster Of David When the prophet Nathan
had come to him because he had gone to Bathsheba] Have mercy on me, O
God, in your faithful love, in your great tenderness wipe away my
offences;
3
For I am well aware of my offences, my sin is constantly in mind.
4
Against you, you alone, I have sinned, I have done what you see to be wrong, that you may show your saving justice when you pass sentence, and your victory may appear when you give judgement,
6
But you delight in sincerity of heart, and in secret you teach me wisdom.
7
Purify me with hyssop till I am clean, wash me till I am whiter than snow.
8
Let me hear the sound of joy and gladness, and the bones you have crushed will dance.
11
do not thrust me away from your presence, do not take away from me your spirit of holiness.
13
I shall teach the wicked your paths, and sinners will return to you.
14
Deliver me from bloodshed, God, God of my salvation, and my tongue will acclaim your saving justice.
15
Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will speak out your praise.
17
Sacrifice to God is a broken spirit, a broken, contrite heart you never scorn.
18
In your graciousness do good to Zion, rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
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