Selig ist der Mann, BWV 57

Set for the second day of Christmas, BWV 57 highlights Bach’s exceptional talents as a dramatist. Despite not writing any operas, the cantata is driven by a dramatic dialogue between Jesus and the Soul, depicted by bass and soprano soloists. He makes use of secco recitative—a common operatic feature of his time.

The final question posed by the soprano in the penultimate movement is, “My Savior, I die with the greatest eagerness, here you have my soul, what will you give me?” The final choral answers: “Rule yourself, beloved… I will remain your soul's friend for ever and ever.”