“...Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” the unofficial EU anthem...”
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The composer meant it to be his religious expression. The EU likes the tune because it is pleasing to the ear. Beethoven is turning over in his grave.
The translated lyrics go:
To Joy
“Joy, thou beauteous godly lighting,
Daughter of Elysium,
Fire drunken we are ent’ring
Heavenly, thy holy home!
Thy enchantments bind together,
What did custom’s sword divide,
Beggars are a prince’s brother,
Where thy gentle wings abide...”
http://www.schillerinstitute.org/fid_91-96/931_Schiller_Ode.html
Certainly hinting at the ancient religions of Europe.