**Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum**
**Definition:**
*Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* is a medieval Latin theological and exegetical treatise that offers a detailed commentary on the biblical *Hymn of the Three Young Men* (also known as the *Song of the Three Holy Children*), a canticle found in the deuterocanonical additions to the Book of Daniel. The work explores the hymn’s theological significance, liturgical use, and its role in Christian doctrine and spirituality.
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# Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum
## Introduction
*Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* (Latin for „Deliberation on the Hymn of the Three Young Men”) is a significant medieval theological treatise dedicated to the exegesis and interpretation of the *Hymn of the Three Young Men*, a canticle originating from the biblical narrative of the three youths—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—who were cast into the fiery furnace but miraculously saved by divine intervention. This hymn, also known as the *Song of the Three Holy Children*, is included in the Septuagint and Catholic and Orthodox biblical canons but is absent from the Hebrew Bible and most Protestant Bibles.
The *Deliberatio* is notable for its comprehensive theological analysis, its reflection on the hymn’s liturgical function, and its place within the broader context of medieval Christian thought. It exemplifies the scholastic method of biblical commentary prevalent in the Middle Ages, combining scriptural exegesis with doctrinal reflection and moral instruction.
## Historical Context
### Origin and Authorship
The precise authorship of *Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* remains uncertain, as is common with many medieval theological treatises. It is generally attributed to a learned cleric or monk active during the High Middle Ages (12th to 14th centuries), a period marked by the flourishing of scholastic theology and biblical commentary. The work reflects the intellectual milieu of medieval Christendom, where scriptural texts, especially those with liturgical significance, were subject to rigorous theological scrutiny.
The treatise likely emerged within a monastic or cathedral school setting, where the study of scripture was central to clerical education. Its Latin composition indicates its intended audience: educated clergy and theologians proficient in the language of the Church and scholarship.
### The Hymn of the Three Young Men
The *Hymn of the Three Young Men* is a poetic canticle found in the additions to the Book of Daniel (Daniel 3:52–90 in the Septuagint and Catholic Bibles). It is a song of praise and thanksgiving sung by the three youths after their deliverance from the fiery furnace. The hymn is characterized by its liturgical and doxological nature, invoking the angels, praising God’s creation, and celebrating divine mercy and justice.
This hymn has been incorporated into various Christian liturgical traditions, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox and Catholic rites, where it is used in the Office of Matins and other services. Its theological themes of divine protection, faithfulness, and cosmic praise have made it a subject of interest for medieval theologians.
## Content and Structure
### Overview
*Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* is structured as a systematic commentary on the hymn, proceeding verse by verse or section by section. The treatise combines literal, allegorical, moral, and anagogical interpretations, reflecting the fourfold sense of Scripture that was standard in medieval exegesis.
The work is divided into several parts:
1. **Introduction:** Contextualizes the hymn within the biblical narrative and explains its liturgical and theological importance.
2. **Exegetical Commentary:** Provides detailed analysis of the hymn’s text, exploring linguistic, theological, and symbolic dimensions.
3. **Theological Reflection:** Discusses the hymn’s implications for understanding God’s nature, angelology, and the relationship between creation and Creator.
4. **Moral and Spiritual Application:** Offers guidance on how the hymn’s themes can inspire Christian virtue and piety.
5. **Liturgical Significance:** Examines the hymn’s role in worship and its function in the spiritual life of the faithful.
### Introduction
The treatise begins by situating the hymn within the story of the three youths in the fiery furnace, emphasizing the miraculous nature of their deliverance as a sign of God’s providence and power. It highlights the hymn as an expression of gratitude and cosmic praise, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of its content.
### Exegetical Commentary
The core of the *Deliberatio* is its verse-by-verse commentary. Each line of the hymn is analyzed for its literal meaning and its symbolic resonance. For example, the invocation of angels is interpreted not only as a call to heavenly beings but also as a recognition of the ordered hierarchy of creation. The repeated praise of God’s works is seen as an affirmation of divine omnipotence and benevolence.
The commentary often draws on patristic sources, such as Augustine, Gregory the Great, and Ambrose, integrating their insights into the medieval scholastic framework. The treatise also references biblical cross-texts, linking the hymn to other scriptural passages that emphasize praise, deliverance, and divine justice.
### Theological Reflection
Beyond exegesis, the *Deliberatio* delves into theological themes raised by the hymn. It discusses the nature of God as revealed through the hymn’s language of praise, emphasizing attributes such as holiness, mercy, and justice. The role of angels is elaborated upon, reflecting medieval angelology, which saw angels as messengers and servants of God’s will.
The treatise also reflects on the cosmic scope of the hymn’s praise, interpreting it as a vision of the entire created order glorifying God. This universal praise is linked to the eschatological hope of the final reconciliation of all creation with its Creator.
### Moral and Spiritual Application
The *Deliberatio* does not confine itself to intellectual analysis but seeks to inspire moral and spiritual growth. It interprets the hymn as a model for Christian prayer and devotion, encouraging believers to emulate the faith and trust of the three youths. The themes of steadfastness in trial, reliance on divine protection, and joyful praise are presented as virtues to cultivate.
The treatise also addresses the role of liturgical prayer in shaping the spiritual life, suggesting that participation in the hymn’s praise can transform the soul and align it with divine will.
### Liturgical Significance
The final section of the treatise examines the hymn’s place in Christian worship. It discusses its use in the Divine Office, particularly in Matins, and its function in sanctifying time and space through prayer. The *Deliberatio* underscores the importance of liturgical chant as a means of communal and individual encounter with the divine.
The treatise may also comment on the musical and performative aspects of the hymn, reflecting medieval concerns with the beauty and order of worship.
## Influence and Legacy
### Reception in Medieval Theology
*Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* contributed to the medieval tradition of biblical commentary and liturgical theology. Its detailed exegesis and theological reflections influenced subsequent commentators and preachers who sought to deepen the understanding of scriptural hymns and canticles.
The treatise exemplifies the scholastic approach to scripture, combining rigorous analysis with spiritual application. It reflects the medieval synthesis of patristic tradition and contemporary theological inquiry.
### Liturgical and Devotional Impact
By elucidating the theological and spiritual dimensions of the *Hymn of the Three Young Men*, the *Deliberatio* helped to reinforce the hymn’s role in Christian worship and devotion. Its insights supported the hymn’s continued use in liturgical settings and encouraged personal meditation on its themes.
The treatise’s emphasis on the cosmic and angelic praise of God contributed to the medieval vision of the Church as a microcosm of heavenly worship.
### Modern Scholarship
In modern times, *Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* is studied primarily by scholars of medieval theology, biblical exegesis, and liturgical history. It provides valuable insight into the interpretive methods and spiritual concerns of medieval theologians.
The treatise also offers a window into the reception of deuterocanonical texts in the Middle Ages and their integration into Christian doctrine and practice.
## Conclusion
*Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* stands as a testament to the medieval Church’s engagement with scripture, liturgy, and theology. Through its detailed commentary on the *Hymn of the Three Young Men*, it illuminates the rich interplay between biblical text, doctrinal reflection, and spiritual devotion that characterized medieval Christian thought.
Its legacy endures in the continued appreciation of the hymn within Christian liturgical traditions and in the scholarly study of medieval biblical interpretation.
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**Meta Description:**
*Deliberatio supra hymnum trium puerorum* is a medieval Latin treatise offering a detailed theological and exegetical commentary on the biblical *Hymn of the Three Young Men*, exploring its liturgical significance and spiritual themes within medieval Christian thought.