Watchman, Tell Us of the Night - Hymn with Lyrics

 

1. Watchman, tell us of the night,
what its signs of promise are.
Traveler, what a wondrous sight:
see that glory-beaming star.
Watchman, does its beauteous ray
news of joy or hope foretell?
Traveler, yes; it brings the day,
promised day of Israel.

2. Watchman, tell us of the night;
higher yet that star ascends.
Traveler, blessedness and light,
peace and truth its course portends.
Watchman, will its beams alone
gild the spot that gave them birth?
Traveler, ages are its own;
see, it bursts o’er all the earth.

3. Watchman, tell us of the night,
for the morning seems to dawn.
Traveler, shadows take their flight;
doubt and terror are withdrawn.
Watchman, you may go your way;
hasten to your quiet home.
Traveler, we rejoice today,
for Emmanuel has come!

Scripture; Leviticus 25:13; Numbers 24:17; Isaiah 21:11-12; 

Matthew 2:2

 

The hymn "Watchman, Tell Us of the Night" was written by John Bowring in 1825. Bowring was an English politician, linguist, and hymn writer, and this particular hymn is known for its reflective and prophetic themes. It is set to a melody by Thomas Hastings and has been a staple in Christian hymnals ever since. The hymn’s lyrics emphasize vigilance, hope, and the anticipation of the coming of Christ.

Story Behind the Hymn:

The inspiration for the hymn comes from the biblical imagery of a watchman, who is called to be vigilant and alert for signs of the coming of the day. In the Old Testament, watchmen were stationed on city walls to look out for approaching enemies, and they would also announce the coming of dawn or the approach of important events. Bowring used this imagery to convey a spiritual message of waiting for Christ’s return.

In a more personal sense, Bowring was likely moved by the political and social upheavals of his time. As a man of both politics and faith, he was deeply concerned about issues such as war, peace, and the fate of nations. The hymn reflects his desire for hope and renewal in the face of hardship, with the watchman serving as a figure of hope who proclaims the dawn of Christ's ultimate victory over darkness and despair.