O Gladsome Light

O gladsome light, O grace of our Creator’s face,
The eternal splendor wearing; celestial, holy blessed,
Our Savior Jesus Christ, joyful in Your appearing!

As fades the day’s last light we see the lamps of night,
Our common hymn outpouring, O God of might unknown,
You, the incarnate Son, and Spirit blessed adoring.

To You of right belongs all praise of holy songs,
O Son of God, life giver. You, therefore, O Most High,
The world does glorify and shall exalt forever.

Author: Unknown

This is an English translation of the ancient Greek hymn 'Phos Hilaron' (Φῶς Ἱλαρόν), one of the earliest known Christian hymns dating to at least the 3rd or 4th century. The original Greek author is unknown; the provided English lyrics appear to be a modern paraphrase (similar to those by Robert Bridges, Charles Wood, or others), but the core text is traditional.