This hymn has been translated over 70 times and is modeled after psalm 46 in the Bible. This hymn is rightfully nickname the "Battle Hymn of the Reformation" due to the many circumstances in which it was involved in. It was often sung by a representing Lutheran parties at gatherings such as the Diet of Worms in 1521 and the Diet of Augsburg (aka Augsburg Confession) in 1530.
Fun fact: This hymn is currently featured in the second edition of the "Catholic Book of Worship" (hmmmmm)
I've had a difficult time finding a recording of the original musical setting...
However, you can click here to listen a lovely variation of the tune by Bach.
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| "Ein Feste Burg ist unser Gott" with Luther's Signature |
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| Early printing, c. 1530 |
However, Luther ended up contributing far more to music than one hymn. He contributed much to the liturgical use of music including: 36 hymns and tunes, the "Lutheran Chorale" philosophy (producing hymns in the vernacular so that the congregation can participate in music) and overall pioneered the ideology of "church music" for the people. As Wolbrink has pointed out in class, the pre-reformation church service was very much more of a spectator's sport, rather than participatory. The priest would face away from the audience, signifying his connection with God. However, Luther believed that the congregation should be part of the service and should be allowed to experience all aspects (sacrament of blood), including worship through music. Luther could could be compared to Pythagoras in that he believed that music was divine- a gift from the heavens and a vessel of communication with God. Luther used his resources to create music in the vernacular because he believed that the laity should have access to what he considered a vital part of worship.
Sources:
http://www.wlsessays.net/files/EggertLuther.pdf
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Mighty_Fortress_Is_Our_God
http://www.oxfordmusiconline.com/subscriber/article/grove/music/17219
youtube.com
Very interesting! It's so neat that even religious movements can spawn changes and additions to music. It makes me wonder what music today would be like had Luther not created what he did.
ReplyDeleteOf course, the pre-Reformation Catholic church loved music that honored God as well, so that Gregorian Chant and even musical notation were developed in the Middle Ages. However, you're right Luther composed hymns in the vernacular with that express purpose, and they are still sung today. Lots of good info here.
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I wonder what Martin Luther would think of the christian music today. Would he find it helpful to worship or dislike it?
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