‘Be Thou My Vision’

The popular hymn’s ancient origin offers a view into the culture of early Christian Ireland.

"The Vision of God," 19th century, by John Linnell after William Blake. Yale Center for British Art, Hew Haven. Public Domain

Each year, the Christian hymn “Be Thou My Vision” is sung in churches across the world. The cherished song focuses on God’s comforting presence and powerful protection. It remains one of the most popular hymns in the UK, but its origin dates all the way back to medieval Ireland.

The lyrics open a window to the past, shedding light on the cultural traditions of some of the country’s earliest Christians that paved the way for contemporary worship today.

Early Irish Christian Poetry

Only two manuscripts exist of the original version of “Be Thou My Vision.”