J. S. Bach, Cantata, BWV 147, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring

Orchestra version


Piano solo version, arranged by English pianist Myra Hess


村治佳織 guitar performance (1) & (2)

Celtic Woman's performance


The poem was written by English poet laureate Robert Bridges.
It is not a translation of the original German.

    Jesu, joy of man's desiring,
    Holy wisdom, love most bright;
    Drawn by Thee, our souls aspiring
    Soar to uncreated light.
    Word of God, our flesh that fashioned,
    With the fire of life impassioned,
    Striving still to truth unknown,
    Soaring, dying round Thy throne.
    Through the way where hope is guiding,
    Hark, what peaceful music rings;
    Where the flock, in Thee confiding,
    Drink of joy from deathless springs.
    Theirs is beauty's fairest pleasure;
    Theirs is wisdom's holiest treasure.
    Thou dost ever lead Thine own
    In the love of joys unknown.