O Root of Jesse

The third O Antiphon:

O Root of Jesse, standing as an ensign before the peoples, before whom all kings are mute, to whom the nations will do homage: Come quickly to deliver us. Amen.

This antiphon draws its inspiration from Isaiah 11. The prophet there sees the Messiah coming “as a signal for the peoples.” We are also reminded of Jesus’ words: “I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself.” He said this to show by what kind of death He was going to die (John 22:32-33).

There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. [Isaiah 11:1]

In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples—of Him shall the nations inquire, and His resting place shall be glorious. [Isaiah 11:10]

O come, Thou Branch of Jesse’s tree, 

Free them from Satan’s tyranny 

That trust Thy mighty pow’r to save, 

And give them vict’ry o’er the grave. 

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 

Shall come to thee, O Israel! 

[LSB 357, stanza 4]