The Cyber Hymnal ‎#5368

5368. O Thou to Whom, in Ancient Time

1. O Thou, to whom, in ancient time,
The lyre of Hebrews bards was strung,
Whom kings adored in song sublime,
And prophets praised with glowing tongue.

2. Not now in Zion’s height alone
The favored worshiper may dwell,
Nor where, at sultry noon, Thy Son
Sat weary by the patriarch’s well.

3. From every place below the skies,
The grateful song, the fervent prayer,
The incense of the heart, may rise
To heaven, and find acceptance there.

4. O Thou to whom, in ancient time,
The lyre of prophet bards was strung,
To Thee at last in every clime,
Shall temples rise and praise be sung.

Text Information

• First Line: O Thou, to whom, in ancient time
• Title: O Thou to Whom, in Ancient Time
• Author: John Pierpoint (1824)
• Meter: LM
• Language: English
• Copyright: Public Domain
• Notes: 'Universal Worship' is the title which this hymn bears in the author's Poems and Hymns, 1840. It was written for the opening of the Independent Congregational Church in Barton Square, Salem, Massachusetts, December 7, 1824, and was printed at the close of the sermon preached by Rev. Henry Coleman on that day. The sentiment of verses two and three seems to have been inspired by Christ's conversation with the woman of Samaria at the well. Nutter, pp. 10-11. Al­ter­nate tune: MAINZER, Jo­seph Mainz­er, cir­ca 1845

Tune Information

• Name: WALTHAM (Calkin)
• Composer: John Baptiste Calkin (1872)
• Meter: LM
• Incipit: 13233 43445 17665
• Key: E♭ Major
• Copyright: Public Domain