Eternal Father Strong to Save (Hymn)

Eternal Father Strong to Save is a timeless Christian hymn that prays for God’s protection over those facing the dangers of the sea. Centered on God’s sovereignty, divine protection, and the power of Christ over nature, this beloved hymn has been a source of comfort for sailors and believers alike.

VERSE 1
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd’st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

VERSE 2
O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walkedst on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

VERSE 3
Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

VERSE 4
O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren’s shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe’er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

Story Behind the Song

In 1860, William Whiting, an Anglican churchman from Winchester, England, penned the hymn “Eternal Father, Strong to Save.” His inspiration stemmed from a harrowing experience at sea, where a violent storm nearly claimed his life.

This event deepened his faith in God’s command over the ocean’s vastness. Later, as headmaster of the Winchester College Choristers’ School, Whiting sought to impart this trust in divine protection to his students. The hymn reflects his profound belief in God’s sovereignty over the seas. [1]

The following year, 1861, John Bacchus Dykes, an Anglican clergyman and accomplished composer, set Whiting’s words to music. He named the tune “Melita,” an archaic term for Malta, referencing the island where the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked, as recounted in the Acts of the Apostles. Dykes’ composition complemented Whiting’s lyrics, and together, they created a hymn that resonated deeply with seafarers.[2]

The hymn’s powerful imagery and maritime theme led to its adoption by the Royal Navy and the United States Navy in the late 19th century. It became known as the “Navy Hymn” and has been a staple in naval ceremonies and services ever since.

Its enduring appeal lies in its invocation of divine protection for those facing the perils of the sea, offering comfort and solace to countless sailors and their families.[3]

Over time, “Eternal Father, Strong to Save” has transcended its original context, finding a place in various military and civilian ceremonies. Its timeless message continues to inspire and reassure those who venture upon the waters, embodying a universal plea for safety and divine guidance.