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[Hymns] Famous hymns and sacred songs. Recommended hymns and sacred songs.

Hymns and sacred songs beloved around the world.

Hymns and sacred songs are known as songs that praise the Christian God, but in Japan—where many people are Buddhist—their recognition is by no means high.

There are many excellent pieces, but the difficulty is that they can be hard to find.

This time, we’ve picked out some famous works among hymns and sacred songs.

We also explain in detail the background of each piece and the meaning of the lyrics, so even those without prior knowledge of hymns and sacred songs can enjoy it.

How about soothing a heart worn down by daily stress with hymns and sacred songs?

Please sit back and enjoy!

[Hymns] Famous Hymns and Sacred Songs. Recommended Hymns and Sacred Songs (41–50)

God is love.Sakushi: Mitani Taneyoshi / Sakkyoku: Fushō

“God is love” is a representative work by Mitani Tanekichi, Japan’s first music evangelist.

In the 1900 Gospel Hymns it is in 9/8 time, but in the 1909 Revival Hymns and the 1967 Hymnal, Second Part, it is in 6/4 time.

In the 1958 Seika hymnal, the fourth verse is by Nakata Ugo, and the lyrics have also been altered.

You Raise Me UpCeltic Woman

Celtic Woman – You Raise Me Up (Live)
You Raise Me UpCeltic Woman

“You Raise Me Up” is a song released in 2002 by the British musical duo Secret Garden.

In Japan, the cover version by the Irish female group Celtic Woman is well known.

Although the lyrics do not explicitly mention God by name, looking at the song as a whole, it’s clear that it is addressed to God.

This is because the lyrics include references drawn from the Bible and phrases commonly found in hymns.

While it differs from traditional hymns, its beautiful melody and God-praising lyrics make it a timeless classic that soothes the hearts of listeners.

Oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, Act III: See, the Conqu’ring Hero ComesGeorg Friedrich Händel

See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes – Handel [A standard piece for award ceremonies and graduations]
Oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, Act III: See, the Conqu'ring Hero ComesGeorg Friedrich Händel

When you hear “the awards ceremony song,” isn’t this the melody many people think of? This famous tune, beloved in settings ranging from school sports days to many other occasions, was written in the 1740s by the Baroque master George Frideric Handel.

In fact, within the oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, this piece is performed as the people greet a hero returning victorious from battle with jubilant celebration.

Not only does it have a background perfectly suited to award scenes, but its dignified, stately melody impressed even Beethoven, who wrote a set of variations on its theme.

It’s said that Handel originally composed it for a different work, then incorporated it into this piece himself as a confident showpiece.

A song that proclaims the glory of victory in resounding tones—truly a triumphant march worthy of the name.

Guide Me, O Thou Great RedeemerEly Cathedral Choir

This hymn is a famous piece also known by the title “Cwm Rhondda.” Although the song is based on the Book of Exodus—which recounts God’s people escaping from Egypt and journeying through the wilderness—it is often sung at weddings and funerals in the United Kingdom and is a familiar piece to many.

The lyrics exist in various versions, and it is also sung at rugby and football matches.

Come, let us praise God together.J.S.Bach

Now then, let us praise God together [from 3D Band Book, page 14]
Come, let us praise God together.J.S.Bach

A majestic chorale composed by Bach, the father of music.

Born in Germany in 1685, Bach created works suffused with profound spirituality.

This piece evokes a powerful yet warm vision of communal prayer in praise of God.

Its four-part texture weaves rich harmonies that recall the sound of an organ resounding through a church, filling the heart with purity.

The work has also been included in educational collections for wind band and has been performed by many who are learning ensemble fundamentals.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to immerse yourself in music in a quiet space or enjoy performing while feeling a sense of unity with your companions.

Lend your ear to this musical treasure, where beautiful melodies interlace.