Joyful Joyful We Adore Thee Lyrics
Tune Name: HYMN TO JOY
Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven
Meter: 8.7.8.7 D
Hymnbook Source: Hymns Ancient & Modern; evangelical hymnals
Verse 1
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,
God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,
Opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness;
Drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us with the light of day!
Verse 2
All Thy works with joy surround Thee,
Earth and Heaven reflect Thy rays,
Stars and angels sing around Thee,
Center of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain,
Flowery meadow, flashing sea,
Singing bird and flowing fountain
Call us to rejoice in Thee.
Verse 3
Thou art giving and forgiving,
Ever blessing, ever blessed,
Wellspring of the joy of living,
Ocean depth of happy rest!
Thou our Father, Christ our Brother,
All who live in love are Thine;
Teach us how to love each other,
Lift us to the joy divine.
Verse 4
Mortals, join the mighty chorus,
Which the morning stars began;
Father love is reigning o’er us,
Brother love binds man to man.
Ever singing, march we onward,
Victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us Sunward
In the triumph song of life.
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Joyful Joyful We Adore Thee |
| Author / Lyricist | Henry van Dyke (1852–1933) |
| Composer / Tune | Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) – melody adapted from Ode to Joy |
| Date Written / Published | 1907 |
| Historical Context | American hymn incorporating Beethoven’s classical melody; expresses exuberant praise. |
| Theme / Message | Joyful worship of God; celebration of creation and salvation. |
| Notable Features | Majestic and triumphant melody; suitable for festive congregational singing. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Widely used in Protestant hymnals; popular in church celebrations and special services. |
| Source / Scholarship | A Survey of English Hymns – Kenneth W. Osbeck |
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About the Hymn
I loved playing Joyful, Joyful, as a little boy growing up, especially since I knew the music was composed by Beethoven. Whether it was on the organ or on the piano, this hymn was a delight to play during Church services or just for my personal enjoyment. May we be joyful in our worship to God knowing that the joy of the Lord is our strength. May the Lord Jesus Christ be glorified as you read and sing this hymn, in Jesus' mighty Name Amen.
