I

Glory to God! the Christ hath left the tomb,

And ere the dawn upon the earth had broke,

The Light of lights had burst upon its gloom,

When He, our Light, from death’s dark sleep awoke.

II

Were there no eyes to gaze upon the sight?

No hearts to sing, when sundered was the prison?

Watchers there were, who lingered through the night,

Angels who said, “The Master hath arisen.”

III

Where now its sting, since death itself is dead?

Where now the power that held the captive bound?

Weave laurels gay to crown the Victor’s head,

Sing carols loud till earth and heaven resound.

IV

Break, happy morn! and let the world be glad,

Night is no more, and all our fears are gone;

Joy fills the souls that erstwhile had been sad,

Hope fills the tomb, where hope had never shone.

V

Sleepers, awake! The Christ from death awoke,

Break into song, and let the silence sing,

Speak to the world what language never spoke,

Bring from a tomb what mourners cannot bring.

VI

Glory to God! The Christ hath left the tomb,

Hope in our souls is shining as the sun;

Clouds bring no fear, for in the deepest gloom,

Rest we in faith,—the Victory is won.