1 When downward to the darksome tomb
I thoughtful turn my eyes,
Frail nature trembles at the gloom
And anxious fears arise.
2 Why shrinks my soul?--in death's embrace
Once Jesus captive slept:
And angels, hovering o'er the place,
His lowly pillow kept.
3 Thus shall they guard my sleeping dust,
And, as the Saviour rose,
The grave again shall yield her trust,
And end my deep repose.
4 My Lord, before to glory gone,
Shall bid me come away;
And calm and bright shall break the dawn
Of heaven's eternal day.
5 Then let my faith each fear dispel,
And gild with light the grave;
To him my loftiest praises swell,
Who died, from death to save.
Source: Laudes Domini: a selection of spiritual songs ancient & modern (Abr. ed.) #575