Hildegard von Bingen Voice of the Blood
“This stuff sounds unadulterated to me. I was shocked years ago when I searched for Gregorian Chants — nearly all of the recordings had been poisoned, IMHO, with “new age” background music, instruments, probably A440 tuning. In contrast, listening to my new find (Hildegard von Bingen) collated (?) by the ensemble “SEQUENTIA” is at once invigorating and calming. I wish I had found these gems sooner.”
Mykl
Hildegard von Bingen, a German abbess, mystic, composer, and philosopher of the 12th century, wrote extensively on theological, botanical, and medicinal subjects. One of her notable concepts is that of the “Voice of the Blood” (“Vox Sanguinis” in Latin).
According to Hildegard’s understanding, the “Voice of the Blood” refers to an inner spiritual guidance or intuition that speaks to individuals through their blood. She believed that this inner voice, which she considered divine in origin, could offer insights, warnings, and guidance to those who were receptive to it.
For Hildegard, the “Voice of the Blood” was closely linked to the idea of the microcosm reflecting the macrocosm. In other words, the human body, including its fluids like blood, was seen as a miniature reflection of the larger cosmos. Therefore, listening to the “Voice of the Blood” was akin to attuning oneself to the divine harmony and order of the universe.
Hildegard’s concept of the “Voice of the Blood” underscores her holistic approach to spirituality and health. She believed in the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit, and she advocated for practices that promoted balance and harmony within the individual.
In Hildegard’s writings, particularly in her mystical visions and theological works such as “Scivias” and “Liber Vitae Meritorum,” she elaborates on the importance of listening to the inner voice and heeding its guidance as a means of attaining spiritual enlightenment and well-being. Her teachings continue to inspire individuals interested in spirituality, holistic health, and the integration of mind, body, and spirit.
Recordings / Playlists
Sequentia is an early music ensemble, founded in 1977 by Benjamin Bagby and Barbara Thornton. The group specializes mainly in Medieval music. Sequentia focuses particularly on music with texts, specifically chants and other stories with music, such as the Icelandic Edda. They are interested in the interplay between drama and music, and sometimes do partially staged performances, such as that of Hildegard of Bingen’s Ordo Virtutum. Bagby and Thornton have both been active in original research on the projects they perform.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEo_vSWtxxoAaATFge98msw
See also
