Gems 6

 

The Prayer From Lohengrin
Act 1 scene 3
Nun höret mich und achtet wohl

At the end of the first act, the King says a prayer before Lohengrin and Telramund do battle. When the King is through, the other principals comment on their feelings, all at once, and presently the chorus takes up the prayer, which rises to a glorious climax.
KING
O Lord God, on Thee I call
All bare their heads and give themselves over to earnest devotion
to preside over this combat!
Through victory by the sword let Thy will be done and falsehood and truth be clearly revealed!
Grant the righteous arm a hero's migh and let the strength of the wrong falter!
O help us, God, at this time,for our wisdom is but foolishness!
ELSA AND LOHENGRIN
Thou wilt reveal Thy just decree, O Lord and God, therefore I do not fear!
FREDERICK
I go forth, trusting in Thy decree! Lord God, let me not be dishonoured!
ORTRUD
I place my trust in his strength, which brings him victory whenever he fights.
HERALD AND ALL THE MEN
Grant the righteous arm a hero's might and let the strength of the wrong falter!
Then reveal to us Thy just decree, O Lord our God, do not delay!
ALL THE WOMEN
O Lord our God, favour him! worthy to acclaim you, rich in highest praise!
In you I am lost, before you I am as naught;
if I am to be blessed, take me wholly, as I am!
LOHENGRIN
I gained the victory only through your purity; now shall you be richly recompensed
for all that you have suffered!
FREDERICK
Alas, God has struck me down; through Him I am defeated.
I must despair of salvation, I am ruined and disgraced.
ORTRUD
Who is it who has struck me down, before whom I am helpless?
Must I despair before him and all my hopes be dashed?
KING AND MEN
Raise a song of victory

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Last updated 9 May, 2008
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