119. Once to Every Soul and Nation

1 Once to every man and nation
comes the moment to decide,
in the strife of truth with falsehood,
for the good or evil side:
then to side with truth is noble,
When we share her wretched crust;
ere that cause bring fame and profit,
and 'tis prosperous to be just.

2 Though the cause of evil prosper,
yet 'tis truth alone is strong;
though its portion be the scaffold,
and upon the throne be wrong.
Then it is the brave one chooses,
while the coward stands aside,
till the multitude make virtue
of the faith they have denied.

Text Information
First Line: Once to every soul and nation
Title: Once to Every Soul and Nation
Author: James Russell Lowell, 1819-1891
Meter: 8.7.8.7.D.
Language: English
Publication Date: 1993
Topic: Words and Deeds of Prophetic Women and Men: Commitment and Action; Courage; The Living Tradition (1 more...)
Tune Information
Name: EBENEZER
Composer: Thomas John Williams, 1869-1944
Meter: 8.7.8.7.D.
Key: f minor



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