[1] It is scored for SATB soloists, mixed choir, 2 oboes, 2 bassoons, 2 trumpets, violin I and II, viola, timpani and basso continuo (cello, double bass and organ).

The autograph score is dated 25 September 1816, and was likely to have been composed for vespers at the Lichtental Church.

[3] The work is divided into three distinct movements, forming a musical triptych.

Schubert used a shortened version of the hymn, omitting the lines quia fecit mihi magna to dispersit superbos mente cordis sui.

He also changed the line ecce enim ex hoc beatam me dicent omnes generationes ("For behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed") to ecce enim ex hoc me beatam dicent gentes ("For behold, from henceforth all nations shall call me blessed").