Ave Satani

Jerry Goldsmith's 'Ave Satani' is a haunting and evocative piece that serves as the theme for the 1976 horror film 'The Omen.' The lyrics, written in Latin, create an eerie atmosphere that perfectly complements the film's sinister themes. The repeated phrases 'Sanguis bibimus, Corpus edimus' translate to 'We drink the blood, We eat the body,' which is a dark inversion of the Christian Eucharist. This perversion of a sacred ritual underscores the film's exploration of the Antichrist and the battle between good and evil.

The chant 'Tolle corpus satani' translates to 'Raise the body of Satan,' further emphasizing the song's blasphemous nature. The repeated exclamations of 'Ave!' and 'Ave satani!' mirror the traditional Christian 'Ave Maria,' but instead, they are directed towards Satan. This inversion of religious iconography is a powerful tool in horror, as it taps into deep-seated fears and taboos. The phrase 'Ave, ave versus christus!' translates to 'Hail, hail, against Christ,' making the song's anti-Christian sentiment explicit.

Goldsmith's composition is not just about shock value; it also serves to deepen the film's narrative. The use of Latin, a language often associated with the sacred and the ancient, adds a layer of authenticity and gravitas to the song. The choral arrangement and the ominous melody create a sense of dread and foreboding, making 'Ave Satani' an unforgettable piece of film music. The song's themes of sacrilege, the inversion of religious rituals, and the glorification of evil are central to its impact, making it a chilling and effective piece of art.