Exploring St. Hildegard's Roots (to help you strengthen your own roots)

It was when I was in my doctoral program years ago, that I first discovered that the foundation of the Celtic traditions that appeared to seep into St. Hildegard’s work might have actually been in Ancient Hinduism. This connection and relationship fascinated me

​Our roots run deep don't they?

​In the ancient Celtic tradition, this image of the Tree of Life has always struck me as one of incredible strength and power.  In the language of the Celts, the mighty oak is called duir, related to the words endurance, duration, and doorway in English.
 
This magnificent tree is like a doorway into the past and into the future.  Its roots reach deep into the nourishment of the soil of Mother Earth. Its trunk stands upright and strong with branches spreading in a magnificent crown over its surroundings.  Sharing its endurance, might, and maturity to the world.                           

​In the song O VIRGA AC DIADEMA, St. Hildegard shares how deep our roots reach to the Divine.  

​When I picture these roots in her song, I imagine how I’ve gained strength and endurance through the inspiration of St. Hildegard, who in turn was inspired by those who came before. Mighty roots reaching deep into the past. 
 
Here are some of the words (in English) from her song. 
 
O branch and diadem…
 
Unfolding your leaves, you blossomed
in another way…
 
O flower, you did not spring from the dew,
nor from drops of rain,
nor did an airy wind fly over you,
but the divine radiance
brought you forth on the noblest bough.
 
O branch, God foresaw
your blossoming
on the first day of creation.
 
And he made you as a golden matrix
for his Word…
 
So the instruments of heaven chime
and the whole earth marvels…
for God has greatly loved you…
 
you who bore the new light
for humankind…
into celestial harmony.
 
Now bring your attention to your own roots and feel the connection to your ancestors and lineage of the past that have helped you become who you are today.  

Explore - where are your ancient roots? 
 
Now gather the strength from those ancient roots and bring them into the present to inspire and support you today. Imagine how you can stretch and grow into your magnificent branches supported by your strong trunk and mighty roots. 
 
Contemplate - how do you need to stretch and grow in this new year? 
 
Listen to a meditation and chant I have created inspired by St. Hildegard’s song, O Virga Ac Diadema with these images and questions in mind. It is most powerful when you chant with me.  Click here to access the recording .