Composer

:

Martin Luther

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1524

Average_duration

:

7:33

"Mit Fried und Freud ich fahr dahin" is a hymn composed by Martin Luther in 1524. The hymn was written as a funeral hymn and was first published in the Erfurt Enchiridion in 1524. The hymn has four movements and is characterized by its simplicity and its focus on the Christian's hope in death. The first movement of the hymn is a statement of faith and trust in God. The opening line, "Mit Fried und Freud ich fahr dahin" (With peace and joy I depart), sets the tone for the entire hymn. The hymn expresses the Christian's confidence in God's love and mercy, even in the face of death. The second movement of the hymn is a reflection on the Christian's life on earth. Luther reminds the listener that life on earth is fleeting and that death is inevitable. However, he also emphasizes that the Christian's hope is not in this life, but in the life to come. The third movement of the hymn is a prayer for a peaceful death. Luther asks God to grant him a peaceful death, free from pain and suffering. He also asks God to forgive his sins and to welcome him into heaven. The final movement of the hymn is a celebration of the Christian's victory over death. Luther proclaims that death has no power over the Christian, and that through faith in Christ, the Christian has eternal life. The hymn ends with the words, "Es ist genug, Herr, wenn es dir gefällt" (It is enough, Lord, if it pleases you), expressing the Christian's willingness to accept God's will, even in death. Overall, "Mit Fried und Freud ich fahr dahin" is a hymn of comfort and hope for the Christian facing death. Its simple melody and straightforward lyrics make it a popular choice for funerals and memorial services.

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