He dies! The Heavenly lover dies!
The tidings strike a doleful found
On my poor heart-strings: Deep he lies
In the cold caverns of the ground!
Come, saints, and drop a tear or two
On the dear bosom of your God ;
He sheds a thousand drops for you;
A thousand drops of richer blood!
Here's love and grief beyond degree,
The Lord of glory dies for men!
But, lo, what sudden joys I see!
Jesus the dead revives again.
The rising God forsakes the tomb;
Up to his Father's court he flies;
Cherubic legions guard him home,
And shout him welcome to the skies.
Break off your tears, ye saints, and tell
How high our great Deliverer reigns;
Sing how he spoiled the hosts of hell,
And led the monster Death in chains.
Say, "Live for ever, wondrous King!
"Born to redeem, and strong to save!"
Then ask the monster, "Where's his sting?
And where's thy victory, boasting grave?"
English text