This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Blessed is he
Staff Notation • Sacred, Verse anthems
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Blessed is he by Henry Purcell — Lyrics
In finem. Psalmus ipsi David.
Beatus qui intelligit super egenum et pauperem: in die mala liberabit eum Dominus.
Dominus conservet eum, et vivificet eum, et beatum faciat eum in terra,
et non tradat eum in animam inimicorum ejus.
Dominus opem ferat illi super lectum doloris ejus; universum stratum ejus versasti in infirmitate ejus.
Ego dixi: Domine, miserere mei; sana animam meam, quia peccavi tibi.
Inimici mei dixerunt mala mihi: Quando morietur, et peribit nomen ejus?
Et si ingrediebatur ut videret, vana loquebatur; cor ejus congregavit iniquitatem sibi.
Egrediebatur foras et loquebatur.
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About Blessed is he
Henry Purcell's Blessed is he is a compelling verse anthem, suitable for services marking times of tribulation or repentance. Its Latin text, drawn from Psalm 41, opens with a prayer for the fortunate soul who cares for the poor and needy, trusting in God's deliverance. The music shifts between a solo trio of voices (ATB) and the full choir, creating a dramatic dialogue that reflects the psalm's movement from confidence to personal confession and the taunts of enemies. The setting captures the plea for mercy and healing, culminating in a powerful expression of faith amidst adversity. This work offers a rich opportunity for interpretative singing, blending solo intimacy with choral grandeur.
