Composer

:

Issachar Bates

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

0:46

"Come Life, Shaker Life" is a hymn composed by Issachar Bates, a member of the Shaker religious community. The hymn was written in the early 19th century and was first performed by the Shakers in their worship services. The premiere date of the hymn is not known, but it is believed to have been written sometime between 1810 and 1820. The hymn is composed of four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement is a call to worship, with the lyrics "Come life, come love, come peace divine, come Shaker life and love be thine." The second movement is a prayer for guidance, with the lyrics "Guide us, O thou great Jehovah, pilgrims through this barren land." The third movement is a celebration of the Shaker way of life, with the lyrics "We will sing and we will shout, Shaker life and love devout." The final movement is a benediction, with the lyrics "May the grace of Christ our Savior, and the Father's boundless love, with the Holy Spirit's favor, rest upon us from above." The hymn is characterized by its simple, repetitive melodies and its emphasis on communal singing and dancing. The Shakers believed that music and dance were essential to their worship, and "Come Life, Shaker Life" is a prime example of this belief. The hymn is also notable for its use of the word "Shaker," which was a term used by outsiders to describe the religious community. The Shakers themselves referred to their community as the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing. Overall, "Come Life, Shaker Life" is a powerful expression of the Shaker faith and way of life. Its simple melodies and heartfelt lyrics continue to inspire and uplift listeners today.

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