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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 (31–40)

Hymn No. 582: ‘Jesus, the Son of God’John Douglas Scott

Based on the Scottish folk song “Annie Laurie,” the lyrics were written with reference to 1 Peter 5:8–10 in the New Testament.

It sings of faith: “Stand firm in the faith and resist this devil.

As you know, your brothers and sisters throughout the world have undergone the same sufferings.”

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.

The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is EndedChoir of King’s College

“The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended,” performed by the Choir of King’s College, founded by King Henry VI, who also established King’s College.

This Christian hymn was written by Reverend John Ellerton and is sung primarily across Europe.

With a message centered on prayer to God and the worldwide fellowship of the Church, it resounds with a grand and beautiful melody.

Its radiant tones evoke hope for a brighter future, and the choir’s clear, pure singing makes it a soothing hymn.

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.

Hymnal, Second Volume, No. 184: “God Gave His Only Son”Mitani Taneyoshi

This is a revival hymn of Hymn No.

13, “God Is Love.” The lyrics were written by Japan’s first music evangelist, Tanekichi Mitani, and, drawing from the Gospel according to John in the New Testament, sing of God’s love—declaring that God is love—shown in giving even His one and only, irreplaceable Son.

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

Lord, from the depths of the abyssJ.S.Bach

Ah, O Lord, Out of the Deep [Hymnal Second Volume No. 227] — Shuichi Toma, Symphonia Collegium OSAKA, Osaka H. Schütz Chamber Choir
Lord, from the depths of the abyssJ.S.Bach

This is a majestic work that turns a soul’s urgent cry, echoing from the depths of profound anguish, into music.

It is a church cantata by Johann Sebastian Bach, known as the father of music, premiered in Leipzig in October 1724.

Based on a hymn by Martin Luther, the piece explores the deep themes of confessing sin and the hope for forgiveness.

The four trombones doubling the choir create a weighty sonority that sets a solemn atmosphere and profoundly moves the listener.

This work is recommended for times when your heart feels heavy or on quiet nights when you want to face yourself.

Its powerful progression, which seems to find a sure light beyond suffering, gives you the courage to step forward into tomorrow.

I vow to thee my countryChoir of King’s College, Cambridge

If you listen to this piece, most people will probably recognize the melody as Holst’s “Jupiter.” This hymn, “I Vow to Thee, My Country,” sets a poem by Cecil Spring Rice, a British diplomat, to the tune of “Jupiter.” It is a British patriotic song and also a hymn of the Church of England.

The lyrics speak of loyalty to one’s homeland and an ideal nation, and the piece is often sung at state occasions.