A 19th-century Christian hymn, “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” was written by English poet and hymn writer Sarah Flower Adams.
Published in 1841, it was inspired by the story of Jacob’s dream in Genesis 28:11–12. The hymn expresses a deep longing for a closer relationship with God, even in times of trial and sorrow.
Its moving lyrics have made it a popular choice for both personal devotion and formal services, often associated with moments of loss or looking back.
About the Author
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1805 |
| Death Year | 1848 |
Sarah Flower Adams was born in Great Harlow, Essex, England. She was the youngest daughter of Benjamin Flower, a prominent journalist and editor, and Eliza Gould.
Her family valued education and independent thinking, which deeply influenced Sarah’s intellectual and creative development.
A strong supporter of progressive causes, she was active in Unitarian circles and contributed poems and essays to various periodicals.
Though plagued by health issues throughout her life, Sarah had a clear imagination and an enduring love for literature, music, and theater.
Her most famous hymn, “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” was written in 1841 and talks about her heartfelt spiritual convictions. It has remained one of the most cherished hymns in Christian hymnody, offering comfort and hope in times of sorrow and loss.
Representative Text
Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!
E’en though it be a cross that raiseth me,
still all my song shall be,
nearer, my God, to thee;
nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!
Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down,
darkness be over me, my rest a stone;
yet in my dreams I’d be
nearer, my God, to thee;
nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!
There let the way appear, steps unto heaven;
all that thou sendest me, in mercy given;
angels to beckon me
nearer, my God, to thee;
nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!
Then, with my waking thoughts bright with thy praise,
out of my stony griefs Bethel I’ll raise;
so by my woes to be
nearer, my God, to thee;
nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!
Or if, on joyful wing cleaving the sky,
sun, moon, and stars forgot, upward I fly,
still all my song shall be,
nearer, my God, to thee;
nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!
Chords of Nearer, My God, to Thee
