Put together, the daily titles work as an acrostic statement, taking the first letter of each to form an even greater meaning. If one starts with the last title and takes the first letter of each one - Emmanuel, Rex, Oriens, Clavis, Radix, Adonai, Sapientia - the Latin words ero cras are formed, meaning, Tomorrow, I will come. The O Antiphons, therefore, intensifies our Advent waiting, joyfully preparing for tomorrow, Christmas.
Follow daily below for a reflection on each title.
December 23rd - O Emmanuel (God with Us)
In the final O Antiphon, we receive Jesus' most complete title: Emmanuel. God has come to His people in an unparalleled way in the birth of the Savior.
This is referred to by the Prophet Isaiah:
December 22nd - Rex Gentium (King of the Nations)
Jesus comes as a king -- not just in the Davidic line but of all the nations.
This is referred to by the Prophet Isaiah twice:
December 21st - O Oriens (Radiant Dawn)
Jesus comes as the breaking dawn, offering new orientation.
This is referred to by the prophets twice:
December 20th - O Clavis David (Key of David)
Jesus comes as a king -- perhaps different from expectations, but a king still. Therefore, he has the power and authority as such.
This is referred to by the Prophet Isaiah twice:
December 19th - O Radix Jesse (Root of Jesse)
Jesus comes as the fulfillment of God's promise, emerging from the line of King David and his father Jesse.
This is referred to many times in scripture:
But you, Bethlehem-Ephrathaha, least among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel; whose origin is from of old, from ancient times. (Micah 5:1)
For I say that Christ Jesus was minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers. But that the Gentiles are to glorify God for his mercy, as it is written: Therefore will I confess to you, O Lord, among the Gentiles, and will sing to your name. And again he says: Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people. And again: Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; and magnify him, all ye people. And again Isaiah says: There shall be a root of Jesse; and he that shall rise up to rule the Gentiles, in him the Gentiles shall hope. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing; that you may abound in hope, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:8-13)December 18th - O Adonai (Lord)
Jesus is the Lord, our God from of old, the Law bearer.
This is referred to in Isaiah's prophecies twice:
December 17th - O Sapientia (Wisdom)
Jesus is the Wisdom of God, the Divine Word that gives logic and life to our undertakings.
This is referred to in Isaiah's prophecies twice: