This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Christ lag in Todesbanden, BWV 279
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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Christ lag in Todesbanden, BWV 279 by Martin Luther — Lyrics
Versus 1
Christ lag in Todesbanden
Für unsre Sünd gegeben,
Er ist wieder erstanden
Und hat uns bracht das Leben;
Des wir sollen fröhlich sein,
Gott loben und ihm dankbar sein
Und singen halleluja,
Halleluja!
Versus 2
Den Tod niemand zwingen kunnt
Bei allen Menschenkindern,
Das macht' alles unsre Sünd,
Kein Unschuld war zu finden.
Davon kam der Tod so bald
Und nahm über uns Gewalt,
Hielt uns in seinem Reich gefangen.
Halleluja!
Versus 3
Jesus Christus, Gottes Sohn,
An unser Statt ist kommen
Und hat die Sünde weggetan,
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About Christ lag in Todesbanden, BWV 279
This setting of Martin Luther's powerful Easter hymn is for SATB choir. The text, in German, vividly describes Christ's victory over death and sin. The first verse rejoices in the resurrection and the life it brings, while the second laments the power of sin that brought death upon humanity. The third verse celebrates Jesus Christ's sacrifice, which removed sin and disarmed death, leaving only its outward form. This hymn is a cornerstone of Lutheran Eastertide tradition, offering a profound theological reflection on the meaning of the resurrection, perfect for services celebrating Easter and the redemption it signifies.
