This edition was prepared by Ian Haslam — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
God be merciful unto us
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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God be merciful unto us by Samuel Sebastian Wesley — Lyrics
In finem, in hymnis. Psalmus cantici David.
Deus misereatur nostri, et benedicat nobis; illuminet vultum suum super nos,
et misereatur nostri:
ut cognascamus in terra viam tuam, in omnibus gentibus salutare tuum.
Confiteantur tibi populi, Deus: confiteantur tibi populi omnes.
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About God be merciful unto us
This anthem opens with a plea for God's mercy and blessing, asking for His face to shine upon us so that His ways may be known throughout the earth. The text, taken from Psalm 67, continues with a joyful expression of praise as nations rejoice in God's righteous judgment and guidance of people. It culminates in thanks for the earth's bounty and a universal prayer for God's blessing and reverence.
Samuel Sebastian Wesley's setting for SATB voices is a powerful evocation of these themes. The rich harmonies and dynamic contrasts serve to underscore the text's journey from supplication to exultant thanksgiving, making it a fitting choice for liturgical settings or concert performance.
