Antiphona 4

From Psalm 71:8, this antiphon describes the geographical extent of Christ's reign: 'Dominabitur a mari usque ad mare' (he shall have dominion from sea to sea). The phrase 'a flumine usque ad terminos orbis terrarum' (from the river unto the ends of the earth) employs the ancient concept of world boundaries - the Mediterranean, the great River (Euphrates or Nile), and the earth's edges. The universality is comprehensive: no territory lies outside Christ's jurisdiction. At Lauds, this cosmic scope elevates the soul beyond parochial concerns to contemplate the King whose scepter extends over every inch of creation.