Did you know that one of my nieces got married this weekend? I KNOW.. how wonderful is that? She’s a sweet girl and has married a good God-fearing man. They had three hymns at their wedding and Be Thou My Vision was one of them. When we were singing it I thought it would be a great hymn to share with you all.
I was surprised in my research to discover that this was an old Irish song. The words are attributed to Dallan Forgaill. They were translated in 1912 by an Eleanor Hull. Some versions have the verses divided into two lines each, others into the (to me) more common four lines per verse. The tune, like with many songs, has varied over the years. I think I picked two different ones to show case today.
It’s not one of those hymns that you belt out, but a quieter more contemplative song. Read the words… it’s a really nice, deep hymn. For a deeper understanding of the history visit Discipleship Ministries.
Lyrics:
Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.
Be Thou my wisdom, and Thou my true word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.
Be Thou my battle shield, sword for the fight;
Be Thou my dignity, Thou my delight;
Thou my soul’s shelter, Thou my high tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward, O power of my power.
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my treasure Thou art.
High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O ruler of all.
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