This edition was prepared by Andrew Sims — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Blessed city, heavenly Salem
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
Unison · Andrew Sims
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Blessed city, heavenly Salem — Lyrics
Blessèd city, heavenly Salem,
vision dear of peace and love,
who of living stones art builded
in the height of heaven above,
and, with angel hosts encircled,
as a bride dost earthward move;
from celestial realms descending,
bridal glory round thee shed,
meet for him whose love espoused thee,
to thy Lord shalt thou be led;
all thy streets and all thy bulwarks
of pure gold are fashionèd.
Bright thy gates of pearl are shining;
they are open evermore;
and by virtue of his merits
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About Blessed city, heavenly Salem
This unison setting of Blessed City, Heavenly Salem is drawn from the rich tradition of Gregorian chant. The text paints a vivid picture of the celestial Jerusalem, a vision of peace and love, built of living stones and encircled by angels. It is described as a bride, descending from heaven, ready to be led to her Lord. The imagery of streets and bulwarks fashioned of pure gold and gates of pearl emphasizes its divine splendor. The hymn speaks of faithful souls ascending to this city, having endured pain and tribulation in this world for Christ’s name, their lives polished like well-cut stones for their place in the heavenly structure.
