153 URBS BEATA HIERUSALEM
The author of this fine old rugged hymn is unknown. It is conjectured to be of sixth- or seventh-century date. It passed into many mediæval Breviaries, sometimes entire, but often divided into two parts. It was largely used for the dedication of churches.
Part I.
I
II
154III
IV
O vision bright of heavenly peace, Jerusalem on high, With living stones Thy walls are built, All beauteous to the eye; A high-born bride, the angels stand Around Thee, an attendant band. | From heaven she cometh down prepared Her nuptial hour to grace; With jewels decked she shall be led To see her Bridegroom’s face. O fair her streets, her bulwarks fair, For purest gold is everywhere. | Her gates, adorned with glowing pearl, Stand open day and night, And hither come the faithful souls, And enter in His right, For whom they bore the cruel shame, That earth has linked to His dear name. | All precious stones and shapely all, By sore affliction made; Each in its place the Heavenly King With His own hand has laid— Such was the plan, that with the Elect The walls of Zion should be decked. | |