Jesus Christ is Risen Today
Easter Hymn's Origin a Mystery
The exact origin of one of the most popular and best loved Christian hymns is a complete mystery to us. Jesus Christ is Risen Today began as a Latin hymn (Surrexit Christus hodie) in the 14th century. The song is one of the last great Latin hymns to be written before the Reformation. It first appeared in German and Bohemian manuscripts and then soon spread throughout Europe.
We don't even know who translated the hymn into English. The first translation appeared in an important 18th century song book called Lyra Davidica (Songs of David). The lyrics feature the repeating word "Alleluia!" at the end of each phrase. Early Christians had the tradition of greeting one another on Easter morning with "Alleluia, the Lord is risen!" The word was used frequently in the early Church and comes from the Hebrew, meaning "praise ye the Lord."
The majestic tune, named EASTER HYMN, is the only surviving melody from the Lyra Davidica. Ancient melodies have a way of altering themselves as they drift through time and cultures, and this one sounded a bit different in the original form. EASTER HYMN as we know it today was first preserved in the book The Compleat Psalmodist, compiled by John Arnold in 1749.
Music historians have speculated that the composer Handel penned the tune. Another contender could be a man named Worgan, as this name has also been used as the title. It's surprising that we don't know who wrote, composed or translated one of our most essential hymns. Perhaps one day in heaven the writer's identity will be revealed, and we can thank them for their beautiful gift to our musical heritage.
As a joyous introduction to the Easter season, this hymn will probably be sung in every church in the country. On that morning, imagine yourself singing collectively with the entire Body of Christ as together we praise our risen Lord!
Jesus Christ is Risen Today is featured on our piano recording Hymns in Ivory.
©1997 KAPELLE Music.