Messiah

Synopsis

(Music Sales America). The world-famous Novello choral edition of Handel's beautiful masterpiece. Arranged for SATB with piano part. Edited with piano reduction by Watkins Shaw.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Messiah's Birth

* Summary: The chapter describes the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ to Mary, a humble Jewish woman, and Joseph, a carpenter. An angel named Gabriel appears to Mary, proclaiming that she will bear a son named Jesus, who will be the Messiah and Son of God.
* Real Example: The Christmas story, celebrated around the world on December 25th, is a popular representation of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Chapter 2: The Messiah's Childhood

* Summary: The chapter focuses on Jesus' childhood years in Nazareth, where he grows up with his parents and siblings. He shows signs of exceptional wisdom and piety, even as a young boy.
* Real Example: The "Boy Jesus in the Temple" incident, where Jesus astonishes the Jewish elders with his knowledge and understanding, is often cited as an example of his precocious intellect.

Chapter 3: The Messiah's Ministry Begins

* Summary: As Jesus reaches adulthood, he is baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. This event marks the beginning of his public ministry. Jesus begins preaching the gospel, healing the sick, and performing miracles.
* Real Example: The miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana is a well-known example of Jesus' power during his early ministry.

Chapter 4: The Messiah's Teachings

* Summary: The chapter highlights the core teachings of Jesus, including the Sermon on the Mount, where he emphasizes love, forgiveness, and humility. He also teaches about the kingdom of God, which is present but yet to come.
* Real Example: The "Parable of the Sower," which illustrates the different responses to Jesus' message, is a famous example of his teaching style.

Chapter 5: The Messiah's Miracles

* Summary: The chapter recounts the numerous miracles performed by Jesus, including healing the sick, raising the dead, calming storms, and feeding the multitudes. These miracles demonstrate his divine power and compassion.
* Real Example: The miracle of the loaves and fishes, where Jesus feeds 5,000 people with just a few loaves of bread and fish, is a well-known example of his power over nature.

Chapter 6: The Messiah's Death and Resurrection

* Summary: The chapter describes the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion, his death on the cross, and his resurrection three days later. Jesus' death is seen as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, while his resurrection symbolizes victory over death.
* Real Example: The Easter story, celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox, commemorates Jesus' resurrection and its significance for Christian believers.

Chapter 7: The Messiah's Ascension and Return

* Summary: The chapter discusses Jesus' ascension into heaven and his promise to return someday. His return is believed to be a time of judgment and restoration.
* Real Example: The Second Coming of Christ is a central belief in Christianity, often symbolized by the image of a white horse or a cloud.