BeBe Winans - The Battle Hymn of The Republic Lyrics

The Battle Hymn of The Republic Video

The Battle Hymn of The Republic Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

The Battle Hymn of The Republic is a well-known American patriotic song that has been sung for generations. It was written by Julia Ward Howe in 1861 and set to the tune of "John Brown's Body" by William Steffe. The song has become an enduring symbol of the American Civil War and has been used in various forms throughout American history. The song's lyrics are powerful and inspiring, and they have been used in many different contexts, including political rallies, religious services, and military ceremonies.

The Meaning of the Battle Hymn of The Republic

The Battle Hymn of The Republic is a patriotic song that celebrates the sacrifice and courage of American soldiers. It is a hymn of hope and victory that looks forward to a brighter future. The song's lyrics are filled with Biblical references and allusions, and they express a deep faith in God's providence and justice. The song's message is one of unity, freedom, and righteousness, and it has been used to inspire generations of Americans to stand up for what is right and true.

The Inspiration and Story Behind the Battle Hymn of The Republic

The Battle Hymn of The Republic was written by Julia Ward Howe during the early days of the American Civil War. Howe was a prominent abolitionist and social activist, and she was deeply committed to the cause of ending slavery in America. In November 1861, Howe visited a Union Army camp in Virginia, where she heard soldiers singing a popular song called "John Brown's Body." Inspired by the soldiers' courage and determination, Howe wrote the lyrics to the Battle Hymn of The Republic, which she set to the tune of "John Brown's Body."

The Battle Hymn of The Republic quickly became a popular song among Union soldiers, and it was often sung during military marches and rallies. The song's powerful message of hope and victory resonated with soldiers and civilians alike, and it became an enduring symbol of the American Civil War. After the war, the song continued to be used in various contexts, including political rallies, religious services, and military ceremonies.

Biblical References in the Battle Hymn of The Republic

The Battle Hymn of The Republic is filled with Biblical references and allusions. The song's lyrics draw heavily on the Book of Revelation, which describes a final battle between good and evil. The song's chorus, "Glory, glory, hallelujah! His truth is marching on," is a reference to Revelation 19:11-16, which describes Jesus Christ returning to earth to judge the wicked and establish his kingdom:

"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. 'He will rule them with an iron scepter.' He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS."

The song's verses also contain many Biblical references and allusions. For example, the first verse refers to God's "terrible swift sword," which is a reference to Hebrews 4:12, which describes the Word of God as a sharp, two-edged sword:

"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."

The second verse of the song refers to the trumpet that "shall never call retreat," which is a reference to 1 Corinthians 15:52, which describes the trumpet that will sound at the end of the age:

"in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed."

The third verse of the song refers to Christ being "born across the sea" and having a "glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me," which is a reference to John 1:14, which describes Jesus Christ as the Word made flesh:

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Practical Application of the Battle Hymn of The Republic to Christian Living

The Battle Hymn of The Republic is a powerful and inspiring song that can help Christians to remember the importance of standing up for what is right and true. The song's lyrics remind us of the ultimate victory that we have in Jesus Christ, and they encourage us to live our lives in a way that honors Him.

As Christians, we are called to be salt and light in the world, to stand up for the oppressed and the marginalized, and to proclaim the truth of the Gospel to all who will hear. The Battle Hymn of The Republic can inspire us to do just that, reminding us of our ultimate hope and victory in Christ and calling us to live our lives with courage and conviction.

In conclusion, the Battle Hymn of The Republic is a powerful and enduring symbol of American patriotism and Christian faith. Its lyrics are filled with Biblical references and allusions, and they express a deep faith in God's providence and justice. The song's message of hope and victory has inspired generations of Americans, and it continues to be a source of inspiration and encouragement to Christians around the world. May we all be inspired by its message and live our lives in a way that honors the God who gave us this great land. Glory, glory, hallelujah!