He was despised and rejected of men

Georg Friedrich Haendel's 'He was despised and rejected of men' is a poignant and deeply moving piece that draws its lyrics directly from the Bible, specifically the Book of Isaiah. This song is part of Haendel's larger work, 'Messiah,' which is an oratorio that tells the story of Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection. The lyrics focus on the suffering and rejection that Jesus endured, highlighting his role as the 'Man of Sorrows' who was well-acquainted with grief and pain.

The song opens with the line 'He was despised and rejected of men,' immediately setting a tone of sorrow and lamentation. This phrase, taken from Isaiah 53:3, encapsulates the emotional and physical suffering that Jesus experienced. The repetition of this line, along with the da capo (meaning 'from the beginning'), emphasizes the depth of his rejection and the continuous nature of his suffering. The use of biblical text not only lends a sense of gravitas to the piece but also connects it to a long tradition of religious music that seeks to explore and express the human experience of suffering and redemption.

Further into the lyrics, the song describes how Jesus 'gave His back to the smiters' and 'hid not His face from shame and spitting,' referencing Isaiah 50:6. These vivid and painful images serve to illustrate the extent of Jesus's sacrifice and his willingness to endure humiliation and physical pain for the sake of humanity. Haendel's composition, with its somber and reflective melodies, enhances the emotional weight of these words, inviting listeners to contemplate the profound mystery of suffering and the redemptive power of love. Through this piece, Haendel not only tells a story but also invites a deep, personal reflection on the themes of sacrifice, rejection, and ultimate redemption.