727. Blessed city, heavenly Salem

PART ONE -
1 Blessèd city, heavenly Salem,
vision dear of peace and love,
who of living stones art builded
in the height of heaven above,
and with angel hosts encircled,
as a bride dost earthward move.

2 From celestial realms descending,
bridal glory round thee shed,
meet for him whose love espoused thee,
to thy Lord shalt thou be led;
all thy streets and all thy bulwarks
of pure gold are fashionèd.

3 Bright thy gates of pearl are shining,
they are open evermore;
and by virtue of his merits
thither faithful souls do soar,
who for Christ's dear name in this world
pain and tribulation bore.

4 Many a blow and biting sculpture
polished well those stones elect,
in their places now compacted
by the heavenly Architect,
who therewith hath willed for ever
that his palace should be decked.

Text Information
First Line: Blessed city, heavenly Salem
Latin Title: Urbs beata Jerusalem
Author: Anonymous
Translator: John Mason Neale, 1818-1866
Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7
Language: English
Publication Date: 2010
Scripture:
Topic: Sacraments and Other Occasions: Dedication Festival
Source: c7th century, Latin
Tune Information
Name: WESTMINTER ABBEY
Composer: Henry Purcell, 1659-1695
Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7
Key: B♭ Major



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