The O Antiphons (also known as the Great Advent Antiphons or Great Os) are Magnificat antiphons used at vespers on the last seven days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. They likely date to sixth-century Italy, when Boethius refers to the text in The Consolation of Philosophy.

How many O antiphons are there?

Each of the seven antiphons begins by addressing Jesus using an Old Testament title for the Messiah. These seven names or titles, all from the Book of Isaiah, are: Dec. 17, O' Sapientia (meaning O Wisdom), from Isaiah 11:2-3.

What are vespers prayers?

Vespers, also called Evening Prayer, takes place as dusk begins to fall. Evening Prayer gives thanks for the day just past and makes an evening sacrifice of praise to God (Psalm 141:1). The general structure of the Roman Rite Catholic service of vespers is as follows: ... (O God, come to my assistance.