Katharina von Schlegel (1697–1768) was a German poet and hymn writer. Born into a Lutheran family, she contributed significantly to religious poetry during the 18th century.
Though little is known about her personal life, her writings continue to be admired for their spirituality and lyrical beauty.
She was part of a tradition of female hymn writers in her time, and her works were widely appreciated for their theological insight and emotional connectivity.
Despite her relative obscurity, her influence on Christian hymnody endures.
About the Song
Be Still, My Soul is a Christian hymn that expresses themes of trust, peace, and comfort in God’s providence.
The hymn reassures believers to remain calm and trust in God’s plan, especially during challenging times.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | 1752 |
| Album | Not a part of an album, originally a hymn |
| Writers | Katharina von Schlegel |
| Translator | Jane Laurie Borthwick |
Be Still, My Soul Lyrics By Katharina Von Schlegel
Verse 1
Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Verse 2
Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Verse 3
Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,
And all is darkened in the vale of tears,
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.
Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.
Verse 4
Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
Similar Songs Like Be Still, My Soul
Here are a few hymns similar to Be Still, My Soul that convey themes of peace, trust, and surrendering to God’s will:
- It Is Well With My Soul: Written by Horatio Spafford, this hymn expresses peace amidst trials, famously written after personal loss, declaring trust in God’s plan.
- I Surrender All: This hymn by Judson W. Van DeVenter speaks of fully surrendering one’s life to God, trusting Him to guide every step in faith.
- What A Friend We Have In Jesus: Joseph M. Scriven’s hymn reminds us that we can bring all our burdens and cares to Jesus, finding comfort and peace in His friendship.
Similar Hymn Writer Like Katharina Von Schlegel
If you enjoy hymns written by Katharina von Schlegel, you will find these artists to you liking known for their rich contributions to Christian hymnody and devotional poetry:
- Gerhard Tersteegen
Genre: German Reformed religious hymnody, Pietist spiritual poetry
Top Work: Geistliches Blumengärtlein (The Spiritual Flower-Garden, 1729) - Paul Gerhardt
Genre: Lutheran hymnody, German Baroque sacred music
Top Works: O Sacred Head, Now Wounded and Give to the Winds Thy Fears - Joachim Neander
Genre: German Reformed Church hymn writer, Baroque sacred music
Top Works: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty - Edith Cherry
Genre: English Christian hymnody, 19th-century hymns
Top Work: We Rest on Thee
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tune Used for Be Still, My Soul?
The hymn is set to the music of Jean Sibelius’ Finlandia, a symphonic piece composed in 1899.
Why is Be Still, My Soul so Popular?
The hymn’s comforting message of trust in God’s providence, paired with the powerful music of Finlandia, makes it a favorite in Christian worship, especially during times of grief or difficulty.
Can I Find Be Still, My Soul on Music Streaming Platforms?
Yes, it is available on platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and Amazon Music, both in traditional hymnal versions and modern arrangements.
