The Hymnal 1982 ‎#520

520. Blessed city, heavenly Salem

1 Blessed city, heavenly Salem,
vision dear of peace and love,
who of living stones art builded
in the height of heaven above,
and, with angel hosts encircled,
as a bride dost earthward move;

2 from celestial realms descending,
bridal glory round thee shed,
meet for him whose love espoused thee,
to thy Lord shalt thou be led;
all thy streets and all thy bulwarks
of pure gold are fashioned.

3 Bright thy gates of pearl are shining;
they are open evermore;
and by virtue of his merits
thither faithful souls do soar,
who, for Christ's dear Name, in this world
pain and tribulation bore.

4 Many a blow and biting sculpture
polished well those stones elect,
in their places now compacted
by the heavenly Architect,
who therewith hath willed for ever
that his palace should be decked.

5 Laud and honour to the Father,
laud and honour to the Son,
laud and honour to the Spirit,
ever Three, and ever One,
consubstantial, co-eternal,
while unending ages run.

Text Information

• First Line: Blessed city, heavenly Salem
• Translator: John Mason Neale, 1818-1866 (alt.)
• Meter: 87. 87. 87
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1985
• Source: Latin ca. 7th cent.; Hymns Ancient and Modern, 1861 (tr. after John Mason Neale))

Tune Information

• Name: ORIEL
• Composer: Caspar Ett , 1788-1847
• Meter: 87. 87. 87
• Key: A♭ Major