Christ Arose - Hymn Lyrics

 Christ Arose

By Robert Lowry (1874)

Verse 1:
Low in the grave He lay—
Jesus, my Savior!
Waiting the coming day—
Jesus, my Lord!

Chorus:
Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph o'er His foes;
He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
And He lives forever with His saints to reign.
He arose! He arose!
Hallelujah! Christ arose!

Verse 2:
Vainly they watch His bed—
Jesus, my Savior!
Vainly they seal the dead—
Jesus, my Lord!

(Repeat Chorus)

Verse 3:
Death cannot keep his prey—
Jesus, my Savior!
He tore the bars away—
Jesus, my Lord!

(Repeat Chorus)

• Title: Christ Arose (also known as Low in the Grave He Lay)

• Author & Composer: Robert Lowry

• Year Written: 1874

• Theme: The resurrection of Jesus Christ

• Signature Chorus Line:
  “Up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o’er His foes…”

Background:
Written by American pastor and hymn writer Robert Lowry, Christ Arose is a powerful Easter hymn celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. Lowry, known for combining strong theological content with stirring melodies, composed both the lyrics and music. The hymn contrasts the somber tone of Jesus lying in the grave with the triumphant burst of the resurrection in the chorus.

Musical Style:
The hymn opens with slow, solemn verses that reflect the gravity of Christ’s burial, then shifts dramatically in the chorus to a bold, victorious tone. This dynamic contrast makes Christ Arose especially effective in Easter services, stirring the hearts of worshippers with the hope and power of the risen Christ.

Usage:
Frequently sung during Easter Sunday services, it remains a beloved anthem of victory over death and the grave.