Translation of hymns
This entry is in two parts: the first by Marcus Wells, the second by JRW
Principles of Hymn Translation
Hymns have been written for centuries and, through translation, many of them have become known beyond the borders of their country of origin. This has been an increasing trend recently, motivated by ecumenism. It is indeed a great thrill at international gatherings to hear the participants praising God in song, all in their own language: a foretaste of Revelation 7: 9-10.
Hymn translations vary greatly in quality; some were produced for their singability, others to introduce the hymnody of a foreign culture, others again for a particular occasion. Any translation should ideally read as...
If you have a valid subscription to Dictionary of Hymnology, please log inlog in to view this content. If you require a subscription, please click here.
Cite this article
MLA style (see MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing, 3rd Ed.)
. "Translation of hymns."
The Canterbury Dictionary of Hymnology. Canterbury Press. Web. 7 Feb. 2025.<
http://www.hymnology.co.uk/t/translation-of-hymns>.
Chicago style (see The Chicago Manual of Style, 16th Ed.)
. "Translation of hymns."
The Canterbury Dictionary of Hymnology. Canterbury Press, accessed February 7, 2025,
http://www.hymnology.co.uk/t/translation-of-hymns.