Since By Man Came Death

"Since By Man Came Death" is one of the most dramatic and deeply theological choruses from G.F. Handel’s Messiah. The piece is built on striking musical contrasts. It opens with slow, solemn, unaccompanied chords that reflect on mortality and the fall of Adam. Then, without warning, the choir bursts into a bright, fast-paced declaration of victory: "by man came also the resurrection of the dead."

In Nigerian choir lofts, this anthem is a powerful choice for Easter Sunday and solemn burial Masses. Rehearsing it requires strict attention to dynamics and tempo. The singers must hold their pitch perfectly during the hushed, grave sections, only to unleash their full, joyful volume for the allegro passages. It demands discipline from every voice part, but the result is always electrifying when it comes together.

The words, taken directly from Corinthians, carry a profound weight. Moving from the sorrow of "For as in Adam all die" to the triumphant promise that "in Christ shall all be made alive" offers immense comfort. When the choir delivers that final, resounding phrase, it leaves the congregation with a renewed sense of hope and the absolute certainty of the resurrection.