This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Forward! be our watchword
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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Forward! be our watchword by Henry Thomas Smart — Lyrics
1. Forward! be our watchword, steps and voices joined;
Seek the things before us, not a look behind;
Burns the fiery pillar at our army’s head;
Who shall dream of shrinking, by Jehovah led?
Forward through the desert, through the toil and fight;
Jordan flows before us; Zion beams with light.
2. Glories upon glories hath our God prepared,
By the souls that love Him one day to be shared;
Eye hath not beheld them, ear hath never heard;
Nor of these hath uttered thought or speech a word;
Forward, marching forward, where the heaven is bright,
Till the veil be lifted, till our faith be sight.
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About Forward! be our watchword
Henry Smart's anthem Forward! be our watchword paints a vivid picture of determined progress. The English text, set for SATB choir, speaks of collective steps and voices joined, urging listeners to focus on the path ahead, guided by a divine 'fiery pillar'. It evokes a sense of spiritual journey, moving through challenges towards a promised 'Zion' and the ultimate reward of heavenly glories. The music aims to capture the resolute spirit of the lyrics, portraying an unwavering march towards spiritual enlightenment and the ultimate vision of God's city. This hymn setting is a powerful call to steadfastness and hopeful anticipation of a glorious future.
