This edition was prepared by Andrew Sims — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Her Virgin eyes saw God incarnate born
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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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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Her Virgin eyes saw God incarnate born by Henry Lawes — Lyrics
Her Virgin eyes saw God incarnate born,
When she to Bethl'em came that happy morn;
How high her raptures then began to swell,
None but her own omniscient Son can tell.
As Eve, when she her fontal sin reviewed,
Wept for herself and all she should include,
Blest Mary with man's Saviour in embrace
Joyed for herself and for all human race.
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About Her Virgin eyes saw God incarnate born
Henry Lawes was a leading English composer of the 17th century, known for his songs and music for stage plays. This sacred anthem for SATB voices sets an English text that reflects on the Annunciation and the Nativity, and the role of the Virgin Mary in salvation history. The lyrics contrast Eve's lament for original sin with Mary's joy at bearing the Saviour for all humankind. It describes her ascension into heaven and her blessed status, foretelling that all generations will call her blessed, drawing parallels between her role in Christ's earthly life and her position in heaven. The music would have been intended for liturgical use or private devotion within the Anglican tradition.
