Attende Domine - Traditional

Attende Domine, et miserere,
Quia peccavimus tibi.
Ad te Rex summe, omnium redemptor,
Oculos nostros sublevamus flentes:
Exaudi, Christe, supplicantum preces.

Dei Patris dextera, lapis angularis,
Via salutis, ianua caelestis,
Absterga sordes delictorum nostrorum.

Attende Domine, et miserere,
Quia peccavimus tibi.

Rogamus, Deus, tuam maiestatem:
Auribus sacris gemitus exaudi:
Crimina nostra placidus indulge.

Attende Domine, et miserere,
Quia peccavimus tibi.

Tibi fatemur crimina admissa:
Contrito corde pandimus occulta:
Tua, Redemptor, pietas ignoscat.

Attende Domine, et miserere,
Quia peccavimus tibi.

Innocens captus, nec repugnans ductus;
Testibus falsis pro impiis damnatus:
Quos redemisti, tu conserva, Christe.

Attende Domine, et miserere,
Quia peccavimus tibi.

Attende Domine Lyrics serve as one of the most significant musical expressions of repentance within the Roman Rite. The song Attende Domine features a repetitive refrain asking the Lord to hear and have mercy because we have sinned against Him. Historically used during the distribution of ashes and Lenten processions it emphasizes the gravity of human fault while clinging to the hope of God's infinite compassion. By chanting the Attende Domine lyrics the faithful engage in a deep spiritual cleansing acknowledging their shortcomings with a contrite heart. The melody is somber yet soaring providing a perfect backdrop for the internal conversion and sacrifice required during the forty days of Lent as believers prepare for the passion and resurrection of Christ.