Christian Worship (1993) ‎#554

554. Oh, How Blest Are They

1 Oh, how blest are they whose toils are ended,
Who through death have unto God ascended!
They have arisen
From the cares which keep us still in prison.

2 We are still as in a dungeon living,
Still oppressed with sorrow and misgiving;
Our undertakings
Are but toils and troubles and heartbreakings.

3 They meanwhile are in their chambers sleeping,
Quiet and set free from all their weeping;
No cross or sadness
There can hinder their untroubled gladness.

4 Christ has wiped away their tears forever;
They have that for which we still endeavor.
To them are chanted
Songs that ne'er to mortal ears were granted.

5 Come, O Christ, and loose the chains that bind us;
Lead us forth and cast this world behind us.
With you, th' Anointed,
Finds the soul its joy and rest appointed.

Text Information

• First Line: Oh, how blest are they whose toils are ended
• Title: Oh, How Blest Are They
• Author: Simon Dach, 1605-59 (abr.)
• Translator: Henry W. Longfellow, 1807-92 (alt.)
• Meter: 10 10 5 10
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1993
• Topic: Saints and Martyrs

Tune Information

• Name: O WIE SELIG
• Meter: 10 10 5 10
• Key: D Major
• Source: Johann Störls...Schlag-Gesang-Und Noten-Buch, Stuttgart, 1744