and let our joys be known;
join in a song with sweet accord,
and thus surround the throne.
2. Let those refuse to sing
who never knew our God;
but children of the heav'nly King
may speak their joys abroad.
3. The hill of Zion yields
a thousand sacred sweets
before we reach the heav'nly fields,
or walk the golden streets.
4. Then let our songs abound,
and every tear be dry;
we're marching through Emmanuel's ground
to fairer worlds on high.
Isaac Watts (1674–1748) was an influential English hymn writer, theologian, and logician. Born in Southampton, he showed early literary talent and studied at a Nonconformist academy. He became pastor of an Independent congregation in London in 1702 but suffered from poor health throughout his life.
Watts was a prolific writer, publishing numerous works on theology, philosophy, and education. He is best known for his hymns, composing over 800, including "Behold the Glories of the Lamb" and "There is a Land of Pure Delight." His collections, such as Hymns and Spiritual Songs (1707) and The Psalms of David Imitated (1719), significantly shaped Protestant hymnody.
He spent his later years as a guest at Sir Thomas Abney’s home, where he continued his literary work. Watts died in 1748 and was buried at Bunhill Fields, with a monument later erected in Westminster Abbey. His works, especially his hymns, remain widely recognized and influential.
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