Often an added note of interpretation is found in the antiphon recited before and after a given psalm or canticle. |
Earlier in the chapter, Hannah recites a canticle not unlike Mary's as she praises God for Samuel and offers him to God. |
The Roman Missal used the canticle as a text on Ember Saturday, and suggested it for the priest's thanksgiving after Mass. |
An antiphon usually refers to a syllabic setting of a brief Scriptural text sung before and after a psalm or canticle. |
Ultimately, it is impossible to know with certainty who is the author of the canticle, nor the date of its composition. |
Voices shift in the canticle, and interpretations vary widely, depending on the era and religious bent of the reader. |