This edition was prepared by Jean-Charles Malahieude — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit, BWV 106
Staff Notation • Sacred, Cantatas
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9 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit, BWV 106 by Johann Sebastian Bach — Lyrics
2a. Coro
Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit.
In ihm leben, weben und sind wir, so lange er will.
ln ihm sterben wir zu rechter Zeit, wenn er will.
2b. Arioso
Ach, Herr, lehre uns bedenken, dass wir sterben müssen, auf dass wir klug werden.
2c. Aria
Bestelle dein Haus; denn du wirst sterben und nicht lebendig bleiben!
2d. Coro
Es ist der alte Bund: Mensch, du musst sterben!
Ja, komm, Herr Jesu!
3a. Arioso
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About Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit, BWV 106
This cantata, Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit, BWV 106, is often referred to as Actus Tragicus. It is thought to have been composed around 1707-1708, making it one of Bach's earliest cantatas. It is a profound meditation on life, death, and faith, suitable for funerals or commemorative services. The work opens with a powerful choral movement setting the text 'God's time is the very best time'. The subsequent movements explore themes of mortality and the passage of time, featuring solo ariosos and a chorale. The SATB voicing is used throughout, and the German text draws from scripture and a hymn. Bach's masterful handling of the text, from the somber contemplation of death to the hopeful anticipation of heavenly peace, makes this a deeply moving experience for both performers and listeners.
