This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
As now the sun's declining rays
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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As now the sun's declining rays by Joseph Barnby — Lyrics
As now the sun's declining rays
at eventide descend,
so life’s brief day is sinking down
to its appointed end.
Lord, on the Cross Thine arms were stretch’d
to draw Thy people nigh;
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About As now the sun's declining rays
As evening falls and daylight fades, these words reflect on the end of life’s brief day. The text draws a parallel between the setting sun and our own mortality, inviting contemplation on Christ's sacrifice. The composer Joseph Barnby sets this thoughtful English text for SATB choir. The hymn’s message moves from a meditation on life’s end to a fervent prayer for grace to embrace the cross and find ultimate peace in death. It concludes with a doxology, offering eternal glory to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, a fitting and traditional close for sacred music of this nature.
