Is Calm on the Listening Ear of Night a Funeral Hymn?
“Calm on the Listening Ear of Night” may not be widely recognized as a funeral hymn, but its soothing melody and reflective lyrics make it a contemplative and peaceful choice for memorial services. The hymn’s gentle tone and themes of tranquility and hope provide solace and comfort, making it a suitable option for a funeral setting.
Why is Calm on the Listening Ear of Night a Suitable Funeral Hymn?
- Soothing and Reflective Melody: The hymn’s tranquil melody evokes a sense of calm and serenity, creating an atmosphere conducive to reflection and meditation. In a funeral service, where emotions can run high, the soothing tones of “Calm on the Listening Ear of Night” offer a moment of quiet contemplation for mourners.
- Themes of Comfort and Hope: The lyrics of the hymn convey a message of comfort and hope, portraying the night as a peaceful time when the soul finds solace. This imagery can be particularly poignant in the context of a funeral, assuring mourners that, like the calm night, there is tranquility and rest awaiting the departed in the afterlife.
- Expressive and Poetic Language: The hymn is characterized by expressive and poetic language that beautifully captures the sentiments of the human soul seeking peace and solace. The richness of the lyrics allows for a profound emotional connection, providing a source of comfort to those grieving the loss of a loved one.
- Versatility in Performance: “Calm on the Listening Ear of Night” can be performed in various arrangements, from simple acapella renditions to more elaborate instrumental accompaniments. This versatility allows for flexibility in tailoring the musical presentation to suit the preferences and atmosphere of the funeral service.
Calm on the Listening Ear of Night Lyrics
Calm on the listening ear of night
Come heaven’s melodious strains
Where wild Judea stretches far
Her silver-mantled plains
Celestial choirs from courts above
Shed sacred glories there
And angels, with their sparkling lyres,
Make music on the air
The answering hills of Palestine
Send back the glad reply
And greet, from all their holy heights,
The Day-Spring from on high
O’er the blue depths of Galilee
There comes a holier calm
And Sharon waves, in solemn praise,
Her silent groves of palm
“Glory to God!” the sounding skies
Loud with their anthems sing
“Peace to the earth, good will to men,
From heaven’s eternal King!”
Light on thy hills, Jerusalem!
The Savior now is born
And bright on Bethlehem’s joyous plains
Breaks the first Christmas morn