Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying

Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying, or Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (German)

Author: Philipp Nicolai (1599); Translated by Catherine Winkworth

1. “Wake, awake, for night is flying,” 

the watchmen on the heights are crying; 

“Awake, Jerusalem, arise!” 

Midnight hears the welcome voices 

and at the thrilling cry rejoices: 

“Where are the virgins pure and wise? 

The Bridegroom comes: Awake! 

Your lamps with gladness take! 

Alleluia! 

With bridal care and faith’s bold prayer, 

to meet the Bridegroom, come, prepare!” 

2. Zion hears the watchmen singing, 

and in her heart new joy is springing. 

She wakes, she rises from her gloom. 

For her Lord comes down all-glorious 

and strong in grace, in truth victorious. 

Her star is risen, her light is come! 

Now come, O Blessed One, 

Lord Jesus, God’s own Son. 

Sing hosanna! 

We answer all in joy your call; 

we follow to the wedding hall. 

3. Lamb of God, the heavens adore you, 

the saints and angels sing before you 

with harp and cymbals’ clearest tone. 

Of one pearl each shining portal, 

where, joining with the choir immortal, 

we gather round your radiant throne. 

No eye has seen that light, 

no ear the echoed might 

of your glory; 

yet there shall we in victory 

sing shouts of joy eternally!