Heb dich weg von mir, Satan

Melchior Franck’s SATB motet, Heb dich weg von mir, Satan, opens with direct, imitative entries in the voices, quickly building a powerful texture. The German text, drawn from Matthew 4:10-11, vividly portrays Christ’s rejection of Satan’s temptation. The music effectively conveys the assertive command, “Get thee hence, Satan!” and the subsequent resolute affirmation of devotion to God alone. As the narrative progresses, the music shifts to reflect the angelic presence and ministry that follow the devil’s departure, offering a stirring musical setting of this pivotal Gospel passage.