When I See the Blood - Hymn Lyrics

1. Christ our Redeemer died on the cross,
Died for the sinner, paid all his due;
Sprinkle your soul with the blood of the Lamb,
And I will pass, will pass over you.

Refrain:
When I see the blood,
When I see the blood,
When I see the blood,
I will pass, I will pass over you.

2. Chiefest of sinners, Jesus will save;
As He has promised, that He will do;
Wash in the fountain opened for sin,
And I will pass, will pass over you. 

3. Judgment is coming, all will be there,
Each one receiving justly his due;
Hide in the saving, sin-cleansing blood,
And I will pass, will pass over you. 

4. O great compassion! O boundless love!
O lovingkindness, faithful and true!
Find peace and shelter under the blood,
And I will pass, will pass over you.

"When I See the Blood" is a triumphant gospel hymn that proclaims the power of Christ’s sacrifice as the sole basis for salvation. Written by John G. Foote in the late 19th century, this hymn draws directly from the account of the first Passover in Exodus 12:13, where God tells the Israelites, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” Foote took this Old Testament picture and applied it to the blood of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that just as the blood of the lamb protected the Israelites from judgment, so too does the blood of Christ shield believers from eternal condemnation.

The hymn is built around a confident and repeated chorus: “When I see the blood, I will pass, I will pass over you.” This refrain captures the assurance of salvation for those who trust in Christ. It’s not based on human effort, religious ritual, or moral achievement, but solely on the atoning blood of Jesus. That simplicity and clarity have made the hymn a staple in revival meetings, evangelistic services, and traditional gospel singing.

Each verse reinforces the message of mercy and deliverance. Whether the sinner feels guilt, fear, or unworthiness, the hymn invites all to find refuge in the cross: “Christ our Redeemer died on the cross, died for the sinner, paid all his due.” The words do not shy away from the reality of sin and judgment, but they quickly point to the solution—the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus that covers all who believe.

Musically, the hymn is energetic and straightforward, reflecting the boldness of its message. Its singable melody and rhythmic chorus make it especially memorable and well-suited for congregational singing. "When I See the Blood" remains a powerful proclamation of the gospel’s heart: that through faith in the shed blood of Christ, sinners are forgiven, judgment is averted, and eternal life is secured.