Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring

Jesu, joy of man’s desiring,
Holy wisdom, love most bright;
Drawn by Thee, our souls aspiring
Soar to uncreated light.
Word of God, our flesh that fashioned,
With the fire of life impassioned,
Striving still to truth unknown,
Soaring, dying round Thy throne.

Through the way where hope is guiding,
Hark, what peaceful music rings;
Where the flock, in Thee confiding,
Drink of joy from deathless springs.
Theirs is beauty’s fairest pleasure;
Theirs is wisdom’s holiest treasure.
Thou dost ever lead Thine own
In the love of joys unknown.

Author: Martin Janus

Year: 1661

The original German text 'Jesu, meiner Seelen Wonne' was written by Martin Janus (also spelled Jahn) c. 1661. The English lyrics provided are a free translation/adaptation (commonly attributed to Robert Bridges in 1897 or earlier anonymous versions), but the core hymn is Janus's work. Johann Sebastian Bach's 1723 chorale setting from BWV 147 is the most famous melody.