Pange Lingua Gloriosi

Written by Saint Thomas Aquinas, 'Pange Lingua Gloriosi' is a profound hymn that delves into the sacred mystery of the Eucharist, a central tenet of the Christian faith. The hymn is a beautiful blend of theological depth and poetic expression, celebrating the transformation of bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ. The opening lines, 'Pange, lingua, Gloriosi / Corporis mysterium,' call upon the tongue to sing of the glorious mystery of the body and precious blood of Christ, emphasizing the sacrificial nature of Jesus' offering for the salvation of humanity.

The hymn continues by recounting the events of the Last Supper, where Jesus, 'Recumbens cum fratribus / Observata lege plene,' sat with his disciples and instituted the Eucharist. This moment is depicted as a fulfillment of the Old Testament law, transforming the traditional Passover meal into a new covenant. The phrase 'Cibum turbae duodenae / Se dat suis manibus' highlights the intimate act of Jesus giving himself to his disciples, symbolizing the ultimate act of love and self-giving.

Aquinas also addresses the mystery of transubstantiation, where 'Verbo carnem efficit / Fitque Sanguis CHRISTI merum,' the bread and wine become the flesh and blood of Christ through the power of his word. The hymn acknowledges the limitations of human senses in comprehending this mystery, stating 'Et si sensus deficit / Ad firmandum cor sincerum / Sola fides sufficit,' meaning that faith alone suffices to affirm the sincere heart. The final verses call for reverence and worship, urging believers to let the old covenant give way to the new rite, and to offer praise and adoration to the Holy Trinity.

'Pange Lingua Gloriosi' is not just a hymn but a theological reflection that invites believers to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the Eucharist. It encapsulates the essence of Christian worship, blending doctrine with devotion, and calling the faithful to a profound reverence for the sacred mysteries of their faith.