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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
National
Harriet Sherwood

Who was Zadok the Priest who inspired Handel’s anthem played at King Charles’s coronation?

Zadok Nathan UEFA Champions League Oil King Charles III Jerusalem
Embroidered screens are put in place by military personnel in red coats at Westminster Abbey
Screens are put up as Charles III is anointed with holy oil during the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday. Photograph: Yui Mok/AP

Zadok the Priest
and Nathan the Prophet
anointed Solomon King.
And all the people rejoiced and said:
God save The King!
Long live The King!
May The King live for ever!
Amen, Alleluia! Amen.

It was an electrifying moment. As Handel’s music built to a crescendo, the king’s coronation robes were removed to reveal a simple white linen tunic. Screened by intricately embroidered panels, Charles III was anointed with holy oil as the choir sang Zadok the Priest, causing hairs to stand on end.

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