Al Dios de Abraham, loor

Author: Daniel ben Judah

Born in Italy, a Jewish liturgical poet who lived in Rome. One of his hymns, “Yigdal Elohim Hai” contains the 13 articles of belief of Maimonides. The poem forms part of the morning prayer of Ashkenazims, sung by the Sephardim on Sabbath eves and holy days, included in the Romaniot fritual for Saturday evenings. John Perry Go to person page >

Paraphraser: Thomas Olivers

Thomas Olivers was born in Tregonan, Montgomeryshire, in 1725. His youth was one of profligacy, but under the ministry of Whitefield, he was led to a change of life. He was for a time apprenticed to a shoemaker, and followed his trade in several places. In 1763, John Wesley engaged him as an assistant; and for twenty-five years he performed the duties of an itinerant ministry. During the latter portion of his life he was dependent on a pension granted him by the Wesleyan Conference. He died in 1799. --Annotations of the Hymnal, Charles Hutchins, M.A., 1872.… Go to person page >

Translator: George Paul Simmonds

At four years, George sang hymns with great devotion and enthusiasm. When he was ten he felt called to be a missionary. He retained his love for the Lord and for music throughout his life. So much so, that after the age of one hundred years old even sang solos in large meetings and on television. He began his work as a missionary, along with his wife, Nessie, in Ecuador. Then explored the Amazon area and across the continent. Collaborated in the compilation of "Hymns of the Christian Life." He also worked with the Bible Societies in several South American countries. He then served as pastor of a Hispanic church in the United States of America. He was a prolific translator of 800 hymns and choral songs. He used some pseudonyms as G. Paul S.… Go to person page >