Composer

:

Johann Walter (i)

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

1:54

"Joseph lieber, Joseph mein" is a hymn composed by Johann Walter (i) in the 16th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written sometime between 1524 and 1525. The hymn was first published in Walter's "Geystliche gesangk Buchleyn" in 1524. The hymn is based on the story of Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem, as told in the Bible. The lyrics describe the journey and the hardships that the couple faced along the way. The hymn is written in German and is meant to be sung by a choir or congregation. "Joseph lieber, Joseph mein" is divided into four movements, each of which tells a different part of the story. The first movement describes the journey to Bethlehem, with the lyrics "Joseph lieber, Joseph mein, hilf mir wiegen mein Kindelein" (Joseph dear, Joseph mine, help me rock my little child). The second movement describes the difficulties that the couple faced on their journey, with the lyrics "Ach, wie soll ich doch in Zion, so viel tausend Menschen sein" (Oh, how shall I in Zion, with so many thousands be). The third movement describes the birth of Jesus, with the lyrics "Eia, wärn wir da geboren, wo uns Gott sein Heil verhieß" (Oh, if we were born where God promised us his salvation). The final movement is a prayer for peace and salvation, with the lyrics "O du wunderschöner Stern, leuchte uns den Weg so fern" (Oh, you wonderful star, light our way so far). The hymn is characterized by its simple melody and harmonies, which make it easy to sing and remember. It is also notable for its use of repetition, which emphasizes the importance of the story being told. "Joseph lieber, Joseph mein" has become a popular Christmas hymn and is still sung in churches and other religious settings today.

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