[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!
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[Hymns] Famous Hymns and Sacred Songs. Recommended Hymns and Sacred Songs (31–40)
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.
God be with usSakushi: Jeremaia Rankin / Sakkyoku: Uiriamu Touma
This is a hymn with lyrics by Jeremiah Rankin, a pastor from the United States.
Published in 1880, it has become so popular that it appears in over 900 hymnals.
It is often sung at farewells and is characterized by its simple, moving melody.
The lyrics were written with the meaning behind the word “goodbye”—“God be with you”—in mind.
Beyond church services, it is also sung at funerals and during processions, and its touching lyrics and familiar melody have comforted many hearts.
Consider listening to it when you want to soothe a mind weary from stress or when parting from someone dear.
At the end of the wilderness

This is a captivating number with a majestic, melancholic sound reminiscent of a Western.
It’s the song that brought singer Yuzo Yamashita to wide recognition.
Released in November 1972 as the theme for the TV period drama “Hissatsu Shikakenin,” it’s included on the album “Uta, Sono Shuppatsu” (Song, Its Departure).
In the desolate world painted by the lyricist, the protagonist’s profound inner spirit—bearing a merciless fate yet holding fast to his convictions—is conveyed through Yamashita’s richly emotive vocals.
The dramatic structure, ascending from silence to a climactic peak, is breathtaking.
It’s a soul-stirring track for those who want to immerse themselves in highly narrative music.
Hymn No. 122: “Midori mo Fukaki”Eustace Rogers Condor

This is a hymn written by Eustace Rogers Conder, an English minister and lyricist.
Composed in the 19th century, it portrays the life of Jesus Christ.
Notably, it sings of Jesus, born as the son of a carpenter, becoming the Savior.
It focuses on Jesus’s childhood and growth, the time he spent among people, and the influence of Conder’s teachings.
The lush green hills of Galilee are depicted as watching over the growth of Jesus of Nazareth, expressing the humility, truthfulness, sense of duty, and love for God and humankind that marked his life.
While the piece holds deep meaning for those of faith, it can also be enjoyed as a soothing song by those without religious beliefs.
Hymn No. 262: “Beneath the Cross”Elizabeth Cecelia Douglas Clephane

This is a hymn with lyrics by Elizabeth C.
Clephane, a Scottish native active in the 19th century.
Born in Edinburgh as the daughter of a distinguished sheriff, she spent most of her life in Melrose.
Though left frail by a severe illness in early childhood, this deepened her faith and compassion, and she devoted her wealth and strength to serving the poor around her.
The hymn was published posthumously.
The melody was composed by Frederick Charles Maker specifically for these lyrics.
Marked by chromatic movement and skillful modulations, it is cherished as one of his representative works.



