The Cyber Hymnal ‎#7487

7487. Wilt Thou Forgive?

1. Wilt Thou forgive that sin, by man begun,
Which was my sin though it were done before?
Wilt Thou forgive that sin, through which I run,
And do run still, though still I do deplore?
When Thou hast done, Thou hast not done,
For I have more.

2. Wilt Thou forgive that sin which I have won
Others to sin, and made my sin their door?
Wilt Thou forgive that sin which I did shun
A year or two, but wallowed in a score?
When Thou hast done, Thou hast not done,
For I have more.

3. I have a sin of fear, that when I’ve spun
My last thread, I shall perish on the shore;
But swear by Thyself, that at my death Thy Son
Shall shine, as He shines now and heretofore:
And, having done that, Thou hast done:
I fear no more.

Text Information

• First Line: Wilt Thou forgive that sin, by man begun
• Title: Wilt Thou Forgive?
• Author: John Donne, 1573-1631
• Meter: 10.10.10.10.8.4
• Language: English
• Copyright: Public Domain
• Notes: I have rather the mentioned this hymn for that he caused it to be set to a most grave and solemn tune, and to be often sung to the organ by the Choristers of St. Paul's [Cathedral] Church in his own hearing, especially at the evening service, and at his return from his customary devotions in that place, did occasionally say to a friend, "the words of this hymn have restored to me the same thoughts of joy that possessed my soul in my sickness, when I composed it. And, O the power of Church-music! that harmony added to this hymn has raised the affections of my heart, and quickened my grace of zeal and gratitude; and I observe that I always return from paying this public duty of prayer and praise with an unexpressible tranquility of mind, and willingness to leave the world." Izaak Walton, Lives, 1670

Tune Information

• Name: SO GIEBST DU
• Composer: Johann S. Bach, 1685-1750
• Meter: 10.10.10.10.8.4
• Incipit: 35435 43323 57655
• Key: f minor
• Copyright: Public Domain