The Day of Resurrection (Hymn)

The Day of Resurrection is a powerful Easter hymn celebrating Christ’s victory over death, calling all creation to rejoice in His triumph. With themes of resurrection, joy, and eternal life, this timeless song proclaims the hope found in Jesus, uniting believers in worship and praise.

VERSE 1
The day of resurrection!
Earth, tell it out abroad;
The Passover of gladness,
The Passover of God.
From death to life eternal,
from earth unto the sky,
Our Christ hath brought us over,
with hymns of victory.

VERSE 2
Our hearts be pure from evil,
that we may see aright
the Lord in rays eternal
of resurrection light;
And listening to his accents,
may hear, so calm and plain,
His own “All hail!” and, hearing,
may raise the victor strain.

VERSE 3
Now let the heavens be joyful!
Let earth the song begin!
Let the round world keep triumph,
and all that is therein!
Let all things seen and unseen
Their notes in gladness blend,
For Christ the Lord hath risen,
Our joy that hath no end.

Story Behind the Song

The hymn “The Day of Resurrection” traces its origins to the 8th century, attributed to St. John of Damascus, a prominent theologian and poet of the Greek Orthodox Church. Born in Damascus, John spent his later years at the St. Sabas monastery near Jerusalem, where he composed numerous hymns.

This particular hymn was part of a longer poem intended for the Easter celebration, capturing the joy and triumph of Christ’s resurrection. [1]

In the 19th century, the hymn gained prominence in the Western Christian tradition through the efforts of John Mason Neale, an Anglican priest and scholar. Neale, renowned for translating ancient Greek and Latin hymns into English, rendered “The Day of Resurrection” in 1862.

His translation sought to preserve the original’s theological depth and poetic beauty, making it accessible to English-speaking congregations. [2]

The hymn has been paired with various musical settings over time. One notable tune is “Lancashire,” composed by Henry T. Smart in 1835 for a missions festival in Blackburn, England.

Originally set to the hymn “From Greenland’s Icy Mountains,” this melody’s strong and march-like quality complements the victorious theme of “The Day of Resurrection.”[3]

Today, “The Day of Resurrection” remains a cherished hymn in many Christian denominations, sung during Easter services to celebrate the cornerstone event of the Christian faith—the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Its enduring popularity attests to its profound message and the seamless blend of ancient tradition with timeless worship.