Which European National Anthems Are Most Christian?

Europe, a continent with a rich history of religion and culture, finds its national anthems reflecting diverse religious and cultural heritage. Among these, which one is the most Christian? Let's explore this question deeply.

The Dutch National Anthem: The Wilhelmus

A Religious Verse in the Dutch National Anthem

The Dutch national anthem, known as "Het Wilhelmus," has a rich and storied history. The anthem is famously dedicated to William of Orange, who played a crucial role in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule. However, the anthology's religious undertones are often overlooked. What many may not know is that the second (or sixth, depending on the version) verse of Het Wilhelmus is marked with deeply Christian sentiment.

OGod, Thou Ever Wart

A shield and my reliance,
O God Thou ever wert.
Ill trust unto Thy guidance,
O leave me not ungirt.
That I may stay a pious servant of Thine for ay,
And drive the plagues that try us,
And tyranny away.

These lines sing of trust, guidance, and divine protection, making it one of the most overtly Christian verses in the anthem. While the first verse is less religious and more secular, this religious verse is deeply embedded in the anthem's musical and cultural fabric. Interestingly, this verse is predominantly sung in churches.

The title “Het Wilhelmus” itself is an acrostic, formed from the first letters of the lines. The letters 'W' and 'M' are taken from the name Willem van Nassov, a prominent historical figure. Sadly, the full poem, with its religious acrostic, is rarely used in public events today due to its overtly religious content.

The Roman National Anthem: O Felix Roma

Another stand-out example of a Christian anthem is the Roman national anthem, "O Felix Roma." This anthem is unique due to its history and its religious language. Unlike many European anthems, O Felix Roma is steeped in Christian references and even includes the papal title. One of the verses reads:

O Felix Roma O felix Roma, nobilis.
O felix Roma, Roma felix, Roma nobilis.
Sedes es Petri qui Christi vicem gerit
Sedes es Petri qui apostolus est pacis.
Pontifex tecum erimus omnes nos Pontifex es magister qui tuos confirmas fratres.
Pontifex tecum erimus omnes nos
Pontifex fundamentum ac robur nostrum
Hominumque piscator, pastor es gregis ligans terram et coelum.
Petre tu es Christi es Vicarius super terram
Rupes inter fluctus tu es pharus ac veritas.
Tu Christi es caritas, tu es unitatis custos.
Promptus libertatis defensor in te auctoritas.
Petre tu es Christi es Vicarius super terram
Rupes inter fluctus tu es pharus ac veritas.
Tu Christi es caritas, tu es unitatis custos.
Promptus libertatis defensor in te auctoritas.

This anthem speaks directly to the papal importance of Rome, with verses like 'Sedes es Petri qui Christi vicem gerit' (Thou art the seat of Peter, who bears the office of Christ) and 'Hominumque piscator, pastor es gregis ligans terram et coelum' (Thou art the fisher of men, who bonds the earth and the skies). It is a testament to the deep-rooted Christian influence in the Italian capital.

The British National Anthem: God Save the Queen

Ironically, It's Not About Religion

When considering Christian anthems, one might think of "God Save the Queen." However, the sentiment of this anthem is somewhat ironic. The Church of England, which the anthem is associated with, no longer inspires the same level of devotion as it once did. The lyrics are certainly religious, but they center more on loyalty and protection rather than religious piety:

God save our gracious Queen,
Long live our noble Queen.
God save the Queen.
Send her victorious
To her enemy's surprise!

H3: Exploring Other European Anthems

While the Dutch and Roman anthems are notably Christian, other European anthems are less religious in nature. For example, the German "Deutschlandlied," while majestic and historically significant, does not contain overtly religious themes. Similarly, the French "La Marseillaise" is secular, emphasizing the unity and resolve of the nation.

Conclusion

Though Europe is a diverse continent, the Christian influence is evident in many of its national anthems. The Dutch "Het Wilhelmus," the Roman "O Felix Roma," and others reflect rich traditions and religious heritage. However, the gradual shift in religious devotion over time has also led to some nuances, such as the irony of "God Save the Queen."