The Strife is o'er, the Battle Done - Hymn with Lyrics

 Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

1. The strife is o'er, the battle done;
the victory of life is won;
the song of triumph has begun.
Alleluia!

2. The powers of death have done their worst,
but Christ their legions has dispersed.
Let shouts of holy joy outburst.
Alleluia!

3. The three sad days are quickly sped;
he rises glorious from the dead.
All glory to our risen Head.
Alleluia!

4. He closed the yawning gates of hell;
the bars from heaven's high portals fell.
Let hymns of praise his triumph tell.
Alleluia!

5. Lord, by the stripes which wounded thee,
from death's dread sting thy servants free,
that we may live and sing to thee.
Alleluia!

Final Ending:
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Scripture; 

Psalm 45:3-4

; Isaiah 25:7-9; Hosea 13:14; Psalm 107:16

The hymn "The Strife is O'er, the Battle Done" is one of the most beloved and triumphant Easter hymns in Christian worship. Its origins trace back to the 17th century, with a rich history tied to both liturgical tradition and the Christian celebration of Christ's resurrection.

The Story Behind the Hymn:

1. Original Composition: The hymn was originally written in Latin in 1695 by Fiorello, Giovanni, an Italian Jesuit priest, and composer named Giovanni de' Bardi. The Latin title of the hymn is "Victoriae Deus," which translates to "God's Victory". It was written as a triumphant celebration of Christ's resurrection. The text reflects the Christian belief that Jesus conquered sin, death, and the grave, offering the promise of eternal life to all believers. The hymn was part of the Easter liturgy and sung as part of the joyful celebration of Christ’s resurrection.

2. English Translation: The English version of the hymn we know today was translated by William J. Irons (1812–1883), a British priest and hymn writer, in the mid-19th century. Irons was known for translating Latin hymns into English, and his translation of "The Strife is O'er, the Battle Done" was published in 1854. The English version maintains the celebratory tone of the original Latin and the key theological themes of victory, triumph, and resurrection.

3. Theological Themes:

   • Victory Over Death: The hymn centers on the victory of Christ's resurrection. It begins with the declaration, "The strife is o'er, the battle done; the victory of life is won," which proclaims that Christ has conquered death and sin.
   • Triumphal Celebration: The hymn conveys the joy and exultation of the Easter season. Each verse celebrates a different aspect of Christ's resurrection and the power it holds over evil and death.
   • Christ's Eternal Reign: The final verses emphasize the eternal victory of Christ. It points to His divine kingship, as Christ's resurrection not only secures His victory but also signifies His rule over all creation.

4. Musical Setting: The melody most commonly associated with "The Strife is O'er, the Battle Done" is based on a traditional 16th-century Gregorian chant that fits the joyful and triumphant tone of the hymn. The tune is called "Victory", and it is known for its upbeat, jubilant melody that mirrors the victory and triumph of Easter.

5. Place in Worship: "The Strife is O'er, the Battle Done" has been widely adopted as an Easter hymn due to its fitting celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Its lively tune and clear message of triumph are particularly powerful in Easter services, where Christians commemorate Jesus' victory over death. The hymn has been sung in many Christian denominations, and it is often used in both traditional and contemporary worship settings.

6. Significance and Legacy: The hymn has become a staple in Christian hymnody, especially for Easter, and is often sung in churches worldwide to celebrate the resurrection. Its combination of theological depth, joyful expression, and melodic beauty makes it a beloved piece of liturgical music. It also reflects the historic tradition of Easter hymns, where the victory of Christ is proclaimed through song, and it continues to inspire and uplift believers.