Eram quasi agnus, ZWV 55:07

This setting of a sorrowful Latin text comes from Jan Dismas Zelenka's Tenebrae responsories. Originally intended for use in the Holy Week services of the Catholic Church, this sacred work is scored for SATB choir. The text describes the composer's suffering as the innocence of a lamb led to slaughter, unaware of the conspiracy of his enemies to destroy him. The music would have been heard in the solemn atmosphere of Tenebrae, a service of shadow and lamentation. Zelenka's dramatic setting reflects the profound sadness and betrayal expressed in the words, making it a powerful choice for liturgical or concert settings during Lent or Holy Week.