Crucifixus

Recently I read a treatise on Bach's b minor mass. I learned many new things, some relating to form, others regarding the use of ritornello, and still other things on symbolism. But, perhaps the most important insight I gained was not a strictly musicological fact relating to some arcane detail or fact not previously realized but a greater understanding of Bach's mind and understanding of the passion of Christ. You see, the meat of theological meaning in the Latin Ordinary is the Nicene Creed. The creed is a statement of belief. For Bach, and the approximately twelve hundred years of tradition predating him, the creed stood as the essence of Christianity. But, as the author (John Butt) pointed out the most important part of the creed is the text dealing with the death and resurrection of Christ. Interestingly enough, Bach, when composing his Missa, separated two verses of text and effectively added a movement. Yet, what is so utterly profound is that his added movement is right at the very center of this part of the mass and deals solely with the crucifixion of Christ. To Bach, as to all other Lutherans of that age, the crucifixion of Christ was to be the non-negotiable center of life, and to this end, Bach even took care to frame his Missa as centered around the crucifixion.

This reminded me of a piece of poetry for my favorite hymn O Sacred Head Now Wounded.

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered

Was All for sinners' gain;

Mine, mine was teh transgression,

But Thine the deadly pain.

Lo Here I fall, my savior!

'Tis i deserve Thy place;

Look on me with Thy favor,

Vouchsafe to me Thy grace.

Yes, tis I deserve thy place. O lord, take me life, as I fall to thee, and grant me your grace! Help me to make you, and your crucifixion and sacrifice my daily thought! May my life be centered on you.