“Battle Hymn of the Republic”
"Battle Hymn of the Republic" is a significant song from the American Civil War era, written by Julia Ward Howe and first published in 1862. The hymn has become an emblematic piece of American culture, often associated with themes of justice, divine judgment, and moral righteousness. Its stirring lyrics convey a vision of God’s presence in the struggles of humanity, portraying a sense of divine purpose in the fight against oppression.
The song’s powerful imagery and repetitive chorus emphasize the idea of truth and righteousness marching forward, resonating with those who sought to inspire courage and resolve during a tumultuous period in American history. The hymn not only served as a morale booster for Union soldiers but has also been used in various social movements throughout history, linking it to broader themes of liberation and equality.
"Battle Hymn of the Republic" continues to be performed and referenced in contemporary discussions about justice and faith, reflecting its enduring impact on American culture and its capacity to evoke emotional and spiritual responses. Its multifaceted significance invites diverse interpretations and discussions around the values of freedom, sacrifice, and the quest for justice.
“Battle Hymn of the Republic”
“Battle Hymn of the Republic”
First published in Atlantic Monthly on February 1, 1862, Julia Ward Howe's “Battle Hymn of the Republic” is a classic song from the Civil War era. It is set forth below:
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored,
He has loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword
His truth is marching on
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
His truth is marching on
I have seen him in the watchfires of a hundred circling camps
They have built him an altar in the evening dews and damps
I can read his righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps
His day is marching on
Chorus
I have read a fiery gospel writ in burnished rows of steel,
‘As ye deal with my contemners, so with you my grace shall deal’;
Let the hero, born of woman, crush the serpent with his heel
Since God is marching on
Chorus
He has sounded from the trumpet that shall never call retreat
He is sifting out the hearts of men before his judgment seat
Oh, be swift, my soul, to answer him, be jubilant my feet!
Our God is marching on
Chorus
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in his bosom that transfigures you and me,
As he died to make men holy, let us die to make men free
While God is marching on
Chorus