“The King of Love My Shepherd Is” is a cherished hymn composed in 1868 by Henry Williams Baker. Its lyrics, drawing inspiration from Psalm 23, are frequently set to various tunes. This hymn is a testament to faith and love.

Overview of the Hymn

“The King of Love My Shepherd Is” is a profoundly moving hymn that has resonated deeply within Christian worship since its creation. It’s known for its comforting and reassuring message, portraying Jesus Christ as a loving shepherd who provides guidance, protection, and nourishment to his flock. The hymn’s lyrics are based on the timeless themes of Psalm 23, blending biblical imagery with a personal expression of faith and devotion. This hymn speaks of divine goodness, unwavering care, and the eternal bond between the believer and God. The hymn is structured in easily accessible verses, making it a familiar and cherished part of many congregations’ repertoire, often sung during communion or times of spiritual reflection. Its widespread usage is a testament to its enduring power and message of hope.

Author and Composition

This hymn was written by Henry Williams Baker in 1868. It draws inspiration from the Welsh version of Psalm 23 and the work of Edmund Prys. Baker’s work has become widely used.

Henry Williams Baker’s Authorship

Henry Williams Baker, born in 1821 and passing away in 1877, is credited with authoring the profound hymn, “The King of Love My Shepherd Is”. His work, created in 1868, has resonated through generations, becoming a staple in Christian worship. Baker’s deep understanding of scripture and his ability to translate that into moving lyrical form is evident in this piece. His authorship is a testament to his devotion to the Christian faith and his talent for musical expression, making this hymn a lasting legacy. He was a prolific hymn writer, and this particular hymn stands out as one of his most beloved and enduring contributions to the genre, reflecting his spiritual depth and poetic skill.

Inspiration from Psalm 23 and Edmund Prys

The hymn “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” draws heavily from the timeless verses of Psalm 23, a psalm that beautifully portrays God as a caring shepherd. This imagery of divine guidance and protection provided the core framework for Baker’s lyrics. Furthermore, the hymn was influenced by Edmund Prys’s Welsh translation of the Psalms, which introduced the concept of Christ as a shepherd. This blended inspiration, combining the traditional psalm with a specific Christ-centered interpretation, gives the hymn its unique theological depth. Baker’s adaptation is a bridge between the Old Testament’s familiar imagery and the New Testament’s message of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, creating a powerful piece of worship.

Themes and Interpretations

The hymn explores themes of divine love, guidance, and provision through the shepherd metaphor. It emphasizes trust in God’s care and the believer’s eternal belonging to Him.

The Shepherd Metaphor and Jesus

The hymn employs the shepherd metaphor, a common biblical image for God’s relationship with humanity, to depict Jesus Christ as the caring and protective leader of his followers. This metaphor, rooted in Psalm 23, portrays Christ as the one who guides, feeds, and shelters believers. It highlights His role in offering spiritual nourishment, leading through life’s challenges, and restoring those who stray. The imagery of the shepherd laying the lost sheep on his shoulders further emphasizes Jesus’s love and redemptive work, aligning with New Testament passages that portray Christ as the Good Shepherd, devoted to his flock, and seeking to lead them to salvation and eternal life. The shepherd is not merely a guide but also a symbol of unwavering care and sacrifice.

Themes of Trust, Faith, and Divine Providence

The hymn “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” deeply explores themes of trust, faith, and divine providence, emphasizing a believer’s reliance on God’s unfailing goodness. The lyrics express a profound sense of security and contentment, asserting that there is “nothing lack” when one belongs to God. This highlights the theme of trust in God’s provision and care. Furthermore, the hymn reinforces faith in God’s guidance, portraying Him as leading through life’s journey and providing spiritual sustenance. Divine providence is evident in the assurance that God seeks and restores the straying. These themes collectively convey a message of hope and confidence in God’s unwavering love and guidance, making it a source of comfort and spiritual encouragement.

Musical Aspects

This hymn is commonly sung to two melodies⁚ DOMINUS REGIT ME and ST COLUMBA. DOMINUS REGIT ME was composed by John B. Dykes specifically for this text in 1868, enhancing its impact.

Common Tunes⁚ DOMINUS REGIT ME and ST COLUMBA

The hymn “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” is predominantly associated with two distinct melodies, each contributing to its rich musical heritage. The first, DOMINUS REGIT ME, is a tune written by John B. Dykes in 1868, specifically for this hymn. Its name, taken from the Latin Vulgate of Psalm 23, translates to “The Lord governs me,” perfectly reflecting the hymn’s theme of divine guidance and care. This tune carries a sense of gentle reverence. The other common melody is ST COLUMBA, a tune that offers a different musical interpretation, with a touch more solemnity. Both tunes are widely used in congregational settings, allowing for a variety of musical expressions.

John B. Dykes’ Contribution

John B. Dykes, a prominent 19th-century English composer and clergyman, significantly shaped the musical identity of “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” through his composition of the tune DOMINUS REGIT ME. This melody, written specifically for Baker’s lyrics in 1868, is now indelibly linked with the hymn. Dykes, known for his gift in crafting expressive and emotionally resonant hymn tunes, provided a musical landscape that perfectly complements the pastoral imagery and themes of trust and divine care. His contribution ensures the hymn’s enduring appeal, with DOMINUS REGIT ME becoming the most widely recognized tune associated with it, cementing Dykes’ legacy in the world of hymnody.

Lyrical Analysis

The hymn’s lyrics explore themes of divine care and guidance. Each verse offers a unique perspective on the shepherd metaphor. It emphasizes the love, safety, and providence found in faith.

Verse 1⁚ Divine Goodness and Belonging

The first verse of “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” establishes a profound sense of belonging and security. It declares, “The King of love my Shepherd is, Whose goodness faileth never; I nothing lack if I am his, And he is mine forever.” This opening statement immediately positions God as a loving and benevolent leader. The phrase “goodness faileth never” highlights the unwavering nature of divine care. The affirmation of ownership, “I nothing lack if I am his,” expresses complete trust and dependence. The verse concludes with a reciprocal declaration, “And he is mine forever,” reinforcing the eternal bond between the believer and the divine Shepherd. This verse encapsulates the core message of the hymn⁚ a secure and eternal connection with a loving God.

Verse 2⁚ Guidance and Spiritual Nourishment

Verse two of “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” shifts to the themes of guidance and spiritual sustenance. The lyrics state, “Where streams of living water flow, My ransomed soul he leadeth, And where the verdant pastures grow, With food celestial feedeth.” This imagery evokes the picture of a shepherd leading his flock to life-giving resources. “Streams of living water” signify the refreshing and revitalizing nature of God’s presence and teaching. The phrase “my ransomed soul he leadeth” emphasizes the redemptive aspect of the divine shepherd’s role. The mention of “verdant pastures” and “food celestial” illustrates the continuous spiritual nourishment provided by God, ensuring growth and well-being. This verse underscores the Shepherd’s active role in guiding and sustaining believers on their spiritual journey, offering both direction and provision.

Verse 3⁚ Redemption and Restoration

Verse three of “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” focuses on the themes of redemption and restoration, acknowledging human fallibility and divine grace. The stanza begins, “Perverse and foolish oft I strayed, but yet in love he sought me,” openly admitting the tendency to wander from the right path. Despite these wayward actions, the verse highlights that the Shepherd’s love is relentless and seeks out those who have strayed. The lines “And on his shoulder gently laid, And home rejoicing brought me” powerfully portray the act of restoration. This depiction of being carried on the shepherd’s shoulders conveys not only rescue but also tender care and joy in returning the lost to safety. This verse emphasizes the forgiving nature of God’s love and the promise of restoration for those who have gone astray, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his flock.

Usage and Impact

This hymn is widely used in Christian worship services, appreciated for its hopeful message. It offers comfort and guidance, resonating with both religious and non-religious individuals alike.

Popularity and Use in Christian Worship

“The King of Love My Shepherd Is” has secured a prominent position within Christian liturgical practices, embraced across various denominations. Its popularity stems from the comforting and reassuring message of divine care and guidance, mirroring the themes of Psalm 23. The hymn is frequently sung during worship services, often as a response to scripture readings or during communion. Its lyrical content, focusing on trust and faith in God’s providence, makes it particularly suitable for moments of reflection and prayer. The hymn’s enduring appeal speaks to its ability to connect with people on a deep spiritual level, providing solace and hope. The use of this hymn extends beyond traditional church settings, often featuring in personal devotion and gatherings.

Last Words of Henry Baker

Remarkably, it is reported that the final words spoken by Henry Williams Baker, the author of “The King of Love My Shepherd Is,” were lyrics from the very hymn he penned. This poignant detail underscores the profound impact the hymn had on his life and faith. As he approached his death, the words of the hymn, which had brought comfort and inspiration to countless others, served as his own personal testament. This fact not only adds a layer of personal significance to the hymn but also highlights the depth of Baker’s belief in the message he conveyed. The story of his last words has further solidified the hymn’s place in the hearts of many, adding to its spiritual resonance.