Hymns of the Lutheran Church

80 By the holy hills surrounded

1 By the holy hills surrounded, On her firm base securely founded, Stands fast the city of the Lord; None shall rend her walls asunder; On her men look with fear and wonder; And mark who here keeps watch and ward. He slumbers not, nor sleeps, Who His loved Israel keeps. Hallelujah! Happy the race Who through God's grace Shall have in their dwelling place! 2 Zion's gates Jehovah loveth, And with especial grace approveth; He maketh fast her bolts and bars; Those who dwell in her He blesses, And comforts them in their distresses Who cast on Him their griefs and cares. How wonderful the grace With which He doth embrace All His people! City of God, How sweet the abode On which such blessings are bestowed! 3 Taught in thee is a salvation Unknown to every other nation; There great and holy things are heard; In the midst of thee abiding, Enlightening, comforting, and guiding, Thou hast the Spirit and the word; There breathing peace around Is heard the joyful sound, Grace and mercy! How sweet that is Which here speaks peace, There crowns with everlasting bliss. 4 Mother thou of every nation Which here hath sought and found salvation, O Zion, yet on earth shalt be! Hark, what shouts the air are rending! What cries to heaven's gates ascending! All our fresh springs shall be in thee. From thee the waters burst To slake our burning thirst, Hallelujah! From sin and death God's own word saith That He alone delivereth.

Text Information

Author
C. J. P. Spitta, 1843
Translator
R. Massie, 1864

Tune Information

Name
Zions Vaegter
Meter
8, 9, 8, 8, 9, 8, 6, 6, 4, 4, 4, 8.
Source
P. Nicolai, 1599