O Darkest Woe

Unknown, 1628, v.1, Johann Rist, 1641, v.2-8; German text

O darkest woe! Ye tears, forth flow! Has earth so sad a wonder? God the Father's only Son Now is buried yonder. 2. O sorrow dread! God's Son is dead! But by His expiation Of our guilt upon the cross Gained for us salvation. 3. O sinful man! It was the ban Of death on thee that brought Him Down to suffer for thy sins And such woe hath wrought Him.

4. Lo, stained with blood, The Lamb of God, The Bridegroom, lies before thee, Pouring out His life that He May to life restore thee. 5. O Ground of faith, Laid low in death. Sweet lips now silent sleeping! Surely all that live must mourn Here with bitter weeping. 7. Oh. blest shall be Eternally Who oft in faith will ponder Why the glorious Prince of Life Should be buried yonder.

8. O Jesus blest, My Help and Rest With tears I now entreat Thee: Make me love Thee to the last, Till in heaven I greet Thee!

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