What Bible verse is Handel's Hallelujah Chorus based on?
The Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah is based on Isaiah chapter 9, verse 6, which declares, “For unto us a child is born, and unto us a son is given.” The context identifies the “us” as Israel, the nation to whom the promised child and son are given.
Les teaches that every time you hear Handel's Messiah, especially the Hallelujah Chorus at the end, you should be reminded that it comes from Isaiah chapter 9, verse 6. He reads, “For unto us a child is born, and unto us a son is given,” and identifies the “us” as Israel, the nation of Israel. In the surrounding context, Les also explains that the servant in Isaiah is Christ the Messiah, upon whom God puts His Spirit, and who brings forth rule or government to the Gentiles.
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
More Questions
Why does Les connect Isaiah 9:6 to Handel's Messiah?
Isaiah 9:6 is the passage that makes Handel's Messiah what it is, and Les reads it with Messiah's music in mind.