Spem In Alium Nunquam HabuiMotet in Forty Parts

By Thomas Tallis

The original Latin text of the motet is from a prayer response adapted from the book of Judith, which was not included in the King James Version of the Bible.

Spem in alium nunquam habui praeter in te, Deus Israel, qui irasceris et propitius eris, et omnia peccata hominum in tribulatione dimittis.  Domine Deus, creator coeli et terrae, respice humilitatem nostram.

English translation

I have never founded by hope on any other than thee, O God of Israel, who shalt be angry, and yet be gracious, and who absolvest all the sins of mankind in tribulation.  Lord God, creator of heaven and earth, be mindful of our lowliness.

Source: Tallis:  Spem in alium; Lamentations.  King's College Choir, directed by Stephen Cleobury.  Argo  C115496 (1989).