¶ Trinitie Sunday.
Lord, who hast formd me out of mud, And hast redeemd me through thy bloud, And sanctifid me to do good; Purge all my sinnes done heretofore: For I confesse my heavie score, And I will strive to sinne no more. Enrich my heart, mouth, hands in me, With faith, with hope, with charitie; That I may runne, rise, rest with thee. |
Note: 3 lines in triple rhyme. First stanza (Invocation): first line to the Father, second line to the Son and the third to the Holy Spirit. Second stanza (prayer of confession): past, present and future. Third stanza (prayer of expectation): 33 or 3x3 or 3*3.
Trinity Sunday is celebrated the Sunday after Pentecost, Whitsunday. On imposed form (sonnets, emblems) or chosen (the number 3 in this poem): To the insane its a strait jacket. To the magician its entertainment. To Herbert its expertise in service, taking what is at hand and creating a morality play of meaning. Music: William Byrd (1543-1623); English composer, "Gloria Tibi Trinitas" |
1633 Poem Index | George Herbert & The Temple |