By Deborah Macomber, age 17
We all know this is a traditional thanksgiving song. It is a Dutch hymn sung in honest thanksgiving in 1648.
The Spanish Inquisition started in 1478, created by Ferdinand and Isabella. The Spanish took over Holland, subjecting its citizens to horrible things. Many times, several Dutch cities were raided and sacked.
William the Silent
William the Silent opposed the Inquisition in 1562 along with Egmont and Philip van Monmorency, Duke of Horn. William the Silent and Egmont were arrested, and beheaded in 1584. This caused great public outrage, and Holland managed to get out from under the Spanish rule Unfortunately, it was once again captured in 1585. All Protestants, Jews and Muslims were murdered or exiled, and all their property taken away. During the year of 1609, a twelve year truce was made with Spain, and the people had a rest. Fighting began again in 1618.
Frederick Henry
In 1625, Frederick Henry, Prince of Orange, the youngest son of William the Silent, became the leader of the Union of Dutch Provinces. Under his able leadership, the Dutch finally threw out the Spanish tormenters for good in 1648. It was then that this hymn was composed by an unknown author, and sung by the Dutch with all their heart. When you sing this hymn of thanksgiving, you can easily see that this was written after a time of great torment and trial. There are various phrases, such as:
- The wicked oppressing, now cease from distressing…
- So from the beginning, the fight we were winning…
- Thou still our defender wilt be…
- Let Thy congregation escape tribulation…
Bibliography:
Lagass, P., & Columbia University. The Columbia Encyclopedia. 6th ed. New York; Detroit: Columbia University Press; Sold and distributed by Gale Group, 2000.
Osbeck, K. W. 101 More Hymn Stories. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications, 1985.
Osbeck, K. W. Amazing Grace : 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications, 1990.
