Composer

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New English Hymnal

Genre

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Choral

Style

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Choral

Average_duration

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4:16

"When I survey the wondrous Cross" is a hymn that was composed by Isaac Watts in 1707. It was first published in his collection of hymns titled "Hymns and Spiritual Songs." The hymn has become one of the most popular and beloved hymns in the Christian church, and it has been set to various tunes over the years. The hymn has four movements, each of which reflects on a different aspect of the cross. The first movement focuses on the wondrous nature of the cross, and the second movement reflects on the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross. The third movement reflects on the love that Jesus showed by dying on the cross, and the fourth movement is a prayer of surrender to Jesus. The hymn is characterized by its simple yet powerful lyrics and its memorable melody. The first line of the hymn, "When I survey the wondrous Cross," sets the tone for the entire hymn, inviting the listener to contemplate the significance of the cross. The hymn is also characterized by its use of imagery, such as the "crown of thorns" and the "sorrow and love" that flowed from Jesus' wounds. The hymn has been set to various tunes over the years, but the most popular tune is "Rockingham," which was composed by Edward Miller in 1790. This tune perfectly captures the solemn and reflective mood of the hymn, and it has become synonymous with the hymn itself. Overall, "When I survey the wondrous Cross" is a hymn that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire and move people today. Its simple yet profound lyrics and its memorable melody make it a timeless classic that will continue to be sung for generations to come.

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