Die liturgiese loflied en die relata refero-beginsel – wesenskenmerk van reformatoriese himnografie

Abstract

This short study proceeds from the central theological argument that in hymnography the regulating principle at all times and in all respects is the revelation of God in Scripture. The hymnological action of worshippers stems from this revelation by God of His character and his almighty deeds for the benefit of His people. As a consequence of this revelatory action of God, his people responds by means of doxological hymns of praise reflecting on what He says, who He is and what He does and has done in revelation history. The liturgical hymnody also actualizes His revelation. A short introduction to the effect of the relata refero-principle (“I am telling forth what is revealed”) in sixteenth century Reformation is discussed, after which some guidelines based on the principle are indicated for the practice of hymnography (song writing).