Hino a São Bento

The song 'Hino a São Bento' by Músicas Católicas is a heartfelt tribute to Saint Benedict, a revered figure in the Catholic Church known for his dedication to prayer and work. The lyrics celebrate São Bento as a 'patriarca, mestre do amor' (patriarch, master of love), highlighting his role as a spiritual guide and protector. The repetition of the phrases 'orar - trabalhar - agir - contemplar' (pray - work - act - contemplate) underscores the Benedictine motto 'Ora et Labora' (Pray and Work), emphasizing a balanced life of spiritual devotion and practical labor.

The song paints São Bento as a lover of silence and prayer, who prioritized his relationship with God above all else. This devotion is described as planting 'grande valor' (great value) in his being, leading to perfection. The imagery of prayer and work as 'orvalho fecundo e criador' (fertile and creative dew) that germinates in hearts and brings new ardor to the earth is a powerful metaphor for the transformative power of faith and dedication.

The hymn also invokes the sacred cross as São Bento's guiding light, asking for his protection against all evil. The lyrics express a deep sense of community and unity, with the people electing São Bento as their protector and intercessor. The song concludes with a plea for São Bento to pray for the community in the name of the Lord, reinforcing the communal and intercessory aspects of Catholic worship. Through its poetic language and spiritual themes, 'Hino a São Bento' serves as both a prayer and a celebration of the saint's enduring legacy.