Fürsten sind meine Feinde, SWV 224
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
3 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Fürsten sind meine Feinde, SWV 224 by Heinrich Schütz — Lyrics
About Fürsten sind meine Feinde, SWV 224
Heinrich Schütz composed this sacred motet for SATB voices, setting a German text alongside a Latin one drawn from Psalm 119. It opens with an Alleluia and the Latin words 'Beati immaculati in via' (Blessed are the undefiled in the way), forming a reflection on the divine law. The subsequent German text, 'Fürsten sind meine Feinde' (Princes are my enemies), introduces a contrasting personal lament. This juxtaposition of scriptural psalmody with personal anguish makes for a powerful devotional experience. The motet’s rich SATB writing offers a profound musical setting of these introspective and prayerful words, suitable for thoughtful reflection within a service or concert setting.