I

When wicked hands had firmly sealed

The silent tomb,

Then cam'st Thou forth, O Christ, as from

The Virgin's womb.

II

Thine Incarnation angels viewed

With wondering gaze;

And soldiers saw the empty tomb

In strange amaze.

III

Search they in vain, those mysteries lay

In night concealed:

The God-man and His rising were

For ever sealed.

IV

Yet to the humble who by faith

Their Lord adore,

Those mysteries fade before their sight

For evermore.

V

Grant us who sing those mysteries now

A claim to praise;

And let Thy mercy bless our lives,

Now, and always.