The Bible and Music

I was familiar with all of the titles of John Rutter’s compositions. I was unaware that some of the hymns were based on Bible verses. I conducted some research on the biblical origins of all of the selections. I determined that “The Lord is My Shepherd” is based on Psalm 23:1-4, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green -pastures; He leads me by still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his names sake”. Psalm 118: 24 provided the inspiration for “This is the Day”, the song included in the royal wedding procession. The psalm reads, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it”. “To Everything There is a Season” is derived from Ecclesiastes 3:1, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven”.

I decided to focus the Biblical roots of “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” because this hymn has a special significance for me. This piece is based on a passage from Numbers 6: 24-26, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace”. This hymn was performed during the baccalaureate mass on the eve of my high school graduation. The choir performed this song during the presentation of roses to parents. This was a particularly emotional moment in what had already been an emotional service. My parents and I experienced a mix of emotions. I believe that John Rutter’s piece expresses this mix of emotions. I think his piece takes on the perspective of a parent. It communicates the celebration of a new phase and new opportunities in life while expressing the hope that children will be protected and experience the fulfillment of their desires. When I listen to the song, I travel right back to the baccalaureate mass and seeing tears in the eyes of my parents. It is quite interesting to experience the nostalgic power of music.