Elisha Albright Hoffman was a renowned hymnwriter and minister who composed over 2,000 gospel songs during his lifetime.
He loved church music and believed songs should express genuine feelings. Some of his most loved hymns include Leaning on the Everlasting Arms and Are You Washed in the Blood?
His songs were often used in church services and became favorites for many people. Though he didn’t win formal music awards, his work left a lasting mark on Christian music.
About the Song
The song talks about feeling safe and strong because of a never-ending support. Its lyrics are full of hope and trust, making it a favorite in churches.
The message is clear: peace comes from leaning on something greater.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1887 |
| Writers | Elisha A. Hoffman |
Leaning On the Everlasting Arms Lyrics
What a fellowship, what a joy divine,
leaning on the everlasting arms;
what a blessedness, what a peace is mine,
leaning on the everlasting arms.
Refrain:
Leaning, leaning,
safe and secure from all alarms;
leaning, leaning,
leaning on the everlasting arms.
O how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way,
leaning on the everlasting arms;
O how bright the path grows from day to day,
leaning on the everlasting arms. [Refrain]
What have I to dread, what have I to fear,
leaning on the everlasting arms?
I have blessed peace with my Lord so near,
leaning on the everlasting arms. [Refrain]
Similar Songs Like Leaning On the Everlasting Arms
If you liked Leaning On the Everlasting Arms, these songs offer similar comfort with their unique voices.
- Amazing Grace: Loved by generations, this hymn speaks of forgiveness and hope, demonstrating how faith can transform even the hardest of hearts.
- Blessed Assurance: Full of joy, this hymn celebrates a strong, peaceful faith and is often sung with confidence and thankfulness in churches.
- Softly and Tenderly: This gentle song invites people to return to love and peace, using quiet, caring words that resonate deeply with the heart.
- Rock of Ages: Often sung for strength, this hymn uses firm words and tone to remind listeners of lasting support through all of life’s troubles.
Similar Songwriters Like Elisha Albright Hoffman
Here are a few artists whose work in hymn writing and church music is similar to Elisha Albright Hoffman:
- Lelia N. Morris
Genre: gospel, church hymn
Top Albums: (no album releases – many hymn publications, e.g., “Let Jesus Come into Your Heart”) - Keith & Kristyn Getty
Genre: contemporary Christian, modern hymn
Top Albums: In Christ Alone (2002), His Mercy Is More (2016) - Keith Getty
Genre: worship, hymn
Top Albums: Confessio: Irish American Roots (2019), Facing a Task Unfinished (2021) - Gloria Gaither
Genre: Southern gospel, contemporary Christian
Top Albums: Homecoming Collection (1993), Gateway (2012) - Estelle White
Genre: gospel, church hymn
Top Albums: (not released as albums – well-known hymns include “Autumn Days”)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired the Hymn Leaning on the Everlasting Arms?
Anthony Showalter was inspired to write the hymn after comforting two grieving friends who had lost their wives.
What Bible Verse is Linked to this Hymn?
Deuteronomy 33:27 – “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”
Has the Hymn been Used in Any Movies or Media?
Yes, one of the most well-known uses is in the 1955 film The Night of the Hunter, where it plays a symbolic and emotional role. It has also appeared in other films, shows, and Christian recordings.
