Composer

:

Martin Luther

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

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Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

1:04

"Nu komm der Heiden Heiland" is a hymn composed by Martin Luther in the early 16th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written around 1524. The hymn was first performed in Wittenberg, Germany, and quickly became popular throughout the Protestant world. The hymn is divided into six stanzas, each with four lines. The first stanza begins with the title phrase, which translates to "Now come, Savior of the heathens." The subsequent stanzas expand on this theme, describing the coming of Christ and his redemptive power. The melody of "Nu komm der Heiden Heiland" is based on a medieval chant, and Luther's text is a paraphrase of the Latin hymn "Veni, Redemptor gentium." The hymn is written in the style of a chorale, with a simple melody and harmonization that allows for congregational singing. One of the characteristics of "Nu komm der Heiden Heiland" is its use of biblical imagery and language. The hymn draws heavily on the Old Testament prophecies of the coming Messiah, as well as the New Testament accounts of Christ's birth and ministry. The text also emphasizes the idea of salvation through faith, a central tenet of Lutheran theology. Another characteristic of the hymn is its simplicity and accessibility. Luther wrote "Nu komm der Heiden Heiland" with the intention of creating a hymn that could be easily sung by the common people. The melody is straightforward and easy to remember, and the text is written in clear, concise language. "Nu komm der Heiden Heiland" has been performed and recorded by countless musicians and choirs over the centuries, and remains a beloved hymn in the Lutheran tradition. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Luther's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that speaks to the hearts of believers.

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