Felix Mendelssohn - “There Shall A Star Come Out Of Jacob”

Today is the sixth day of Hanukkah, and the idea that the light of love is strong enough to weather any darkness rings true for me once again.

Today’s song is by Felix Mendelssohn, a man who was baptized Protestant by his parents but whom was very very proud of his jewish heritage and his relation to Moses Mendelssohn. I like the idea that though he never personally talked about his innermost beliefs he was wise enough to see the divinity in both religions. Taking this text from the Torah he was able to write a transcendent piece of music about the plight of Israel. Though not a traditional Hanukkah song, I always think of this song during the holidays. 

This song sings of hope. Hope for tomorrow, for the life to come, and in the belief that things though dark at times, will always turn out for the best.

So today I choose Felix Mendelssohn’s “There Shall A Star Come Out Of Jacob” as my, let your heart believe, hope may be frail - but it is hard to kill, one more step, song for a, let the stars be your guide, you may falter but you may not quit, though your body may be broken, battered, and bloody, your weary eyes will rise up and with this sight your heart shall be healed Friday.

I have given you an SATB arrangement and a TTBB arrangement.