"Close to Thee" by Fanny J. Crosby in 1874 Rendered by Covenant Trio at Egmore Wesley Church скачать в хорошем качестве

"Close to Thee" by Fanny J. Crosby in 1874 Rendered by Covenant Trio at Egmore Wesley Church

The hymn "Close to Thee" was written in 1874 by the prolific American hymn writer Fanny J. Crosby, with music composed by Silas J. Vail. It reflects a personal yearning for God's constant presence and guidance throughout life's challenges. History and Inspiration Author and Composer: Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) lost her eyesight as an infant, but became one of the most well-known and influential hymn writers of her day, penning over 8,000 hymn texts. Silas J. Vail (1818–1884), a hat manufacturer and musician, composed the tune. The Moment of Creation: According to Crosby's own account in her autobiography Memories of Eighty Years (1906), the inspiration came suddenly one evening in 1874. She was sitting in her room, contemplating the nearness of God as a constant companion during her "pilgrim journey" when "my heart burst out with the words". Collaboration: Vail had written a melody and played it for Crosby. As he played, she felt the words and the repeated phrase "Close to Thee, close to Thee" fit perfectly with the music, and the text was subsequently written to accompany Vail's tune. Publication: The hymn was published the same year it was written, in Songs of Grace and Glory, edited by Silas Vail and George C. Vail. Themes and Impact The hymn, which begins "Thou my everlasting portion, more than friend or life to me," uses imagery from scripture, such as the "vale of shadows" (an allusion to Psalm 23:4) and the "pilgrim journey" (reflecting 1 Peter 2:10–11). It has three stanzas and a repeating chorus, forming a prayer for: God's companionship throughout life. Strength to "toil and suffer" without seeking "ease or worldly pleasure". Guidance through life's difficulties ("life's fitful sea") and entry into "life eternal". "Close to Thee" has become a timeless classic, published in numerous hymnals worldwide, continuing to inspire believers with its message of intimate, personal reliance on God.