Brother Sun and Sister Moon
Reverence awakens in the soul a sympathetic power through which we attract qualities in the beings which surround us, which would otherwise remain concealed. ~ Rudolf Steiner
Whisperia is a weekly email newsletter that helps readers attune to spirit and the divine. It’s free! To receive this weekly encouragement, hit the Subscribe button!
Yesterday, here in the Northern Hemisphere, we experienced the summer solstice. It was the longest day of this year, 2024.
Today, (Friday, June 21, 2024) the lowest full moon of the year, called the Strawberry Moon, can be witnessed by those of us who will direct our gazes heavenward. It’s the first full moon of summer. Native Americans have several names for it such as the Green Corn Moon and the Late Berries Moon. The Ojibwe, of the Great Lakes region call it Waabigonii Giizis (Blooming Moon).
The best time to see it will be tonight, Friday. It will rise very close to the horizon, just about the time of sunset. If you’d like to witness this beautiful moon, be sure to situate yourself where you can see a low view of the eastern horizon.
We are all One. All of creation is One. As we gaze upon our Sun and Moon, we can allow ourselves to be filled with appreciation and reverence for all of which we’re a part and which, in turn, is a part of us. It is fitting that Saint Francis of Assisi’s, “Canticle of Brother Sun and Sister Moon,” be included here.
Although born to a wealthy family in Italy in the late 12th century, Francis forsook his position in society and abandoned his life of wealth and ease. This remarkable man is credited with composing the first poem in the Italian language (vulgate) called, “Canticle of Brother Sun and Sister Moon.” It is known by other titles as well, such as “Canticle of the Creatures,” or simply “Canticle of the Sun.” It seems that Francis wrote the canticle, or song, in three phases. Below, is the initial part, focused on praises of and through the world of nature.
There are various English translations. Below is a fusion of two different translations.
“Canticle of Brother Sun and Sister Moon” **
By Saint Francis of Assisi
Most High, all-powerful, all-good Lord! All praise is Yours, all glory, all honour and all blessings.
To you alone, Most High, do they belong, and no mortal lips are worthy to pronounce Your Name.
Be praised, my Lord, with all Your creatures, especially my lord Brother Sun, Who brings and is the day through whom You give us light. And he is beautiful and radiant in all his great splendour! Of You Most High, he bears the likeness.
Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars; In the heavens you have made them bright, precious and fair.
Be praised, my Lord, through Brothers Wind and Air, And clouds and storms, fair and stormy, all weather’s moods, through which You cherish and sustain all that You have made.
Be praised, my Lord through Sister Water; She is very useful, humble, precious and pure.
Be praised, my Lord through Brother Fire, through whom You light the night. He is beautiful and playful and robust and strong.
Be praised, my Lord through our Sister, Mother Earth who sustains and governs us, producing varied fruits with colored flowers and herbs.
Perhaps, looking to the skies and to creation around us, will enable us to foster that state of being within ourselves called reverence.
Noe remerciant Dieu d’avoir suave La Creation (1625) Rowland Savery (Flemish 1576-1639)
With this in mind, here is a recording of the famous hymn entitled, “How Great Thou Art.” The song originally comes from Sweden, written in 1885 by Carl Boberg, an author, editor, and member of the Swedish Parliament. The song became popular in various countries, eventually being adapted with English lyrics.
The majestic scenery depicted in the YouTube video, the gorgeous voices, beautiful harmony and profound lyrics may enable each of us to spend a few moments contemplating our Oneness, God’s creation, and our place in it.
Amidst such beauty and mystery, let’s take moments to listen for the whispers emanated by all of creation and to train our ears to hear the voice of the One Infinite Creator.
Until next time,
K. M. Anderson
PhD, Metaphysics
PhD, Spiritual Counseling
Whisperia
** Based on translations by:
Bill Barrett from the Umbrian text of the Assisi Codex at http://faculty.webster.edu/barrettb/.canticle.htm
A translation found at http://franciscanmedia.org
K. M.,
Thank you for reminding us of the marvelous work of Creation. I was fortunate enough to witness this cosmic event with my wife and our little pup. It was beautiful! 🌕🙏🏼❤️