This edition was prepared by Ross Jallo — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Have mercy upon me, O God
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
ATTBB, SAATB · Ross Jallo
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Have mercy upon me, O God by Thomas Tomkins — Lyrics
In finem. Psalmus David,
cum venit ad eum Nathan propheta, quando intravit ad Bethsabee.
Miserere mei, Deus, secundum magnam misericordiam tuam; et secundum multitudinem miserationum tuarum, dele iniquitatem meam.
Amplius lava me ab iniquitate mea: et a peccato meo munda me.
Quoniam iniquitatem meam ego cognosco, et peccatum meum contra me est semper.
Tibi soli peccavi, et malum coram te feci; ut justificeris in sermonibus tuis, et vincas cum judicaris.
Ecce enim in iniquitatibus conceptus sum: et in peccatis concepit me mater mea.
Ecce enim veritatem dilexisti; incerta et occulta sapientiae tuae manifestasti mihi.
Asperges me hyssopo, et mundabor; lavabis me, et super nivem dealbabor.
Auditui meo dabis gaudium et laetitiam: et exsultabunt ossa humiliata.
Averte faciem tuam a peccatis meis, et omnes iniquitates meas dele.
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About Have mercy upon me, O God
This powerful anthem by Thomas Tomkins sets the opening verses of Psalm 51, a deeply personal plea for divine forgiveness. The text, originating from a specific moment of repentance in the life of King David, expresses profound sorrow for sin and a fervent hope for cleansing and absolution. Tomkins masterfully crafts the music to reflect the gravity of these words, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for choirs. The work is presented in a setting for either ATTBB or SAATB voices, allowing flexibility in ensemble. The Latin text is paired with its English translation, making it accessible for diverse choral settings and suitable for services focused on penitence or reflection.
