| Hymns byMartin Luther | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Written | 1524 (1524)–1541 |
| Language | German |
ThereformerMartin Luther, a prolifichymnodist, regarded music and especially hymns in German as important means for the development of faith.
Luther wrote songs for occasions of the liturgical year (Advent,Christmas,Purification,Epiphany,Easter,Pentecost,Trinity), hymns on topics of thecatechism (Ten Commandments,Lord's Prayer,creed,baptism,confession,Eucharist), paraphrases ofpsalms, and other songs. Whenever Luther went out from pre-existing texts, here listed as "text source" (bible, Latin and German hymns), he widely expanded, transformed and personally interpreted them.[1][2]
Luther worked on the tunes, sometimes modifying older tunes, in collaboration withJohann Walter. Hymns were published in theAchtliederbuch, in Walter's choral hymnalEyn geystlich Gesangk Buchleyn (Wittenberg) and theErfurtEnchiridion (Erfurt) in 1524, and in theKlugsches Gesangbuch, among others. For more information, seeMartin Luther § Hymnodist.
Other hymns sometimes ascribed to Luther but not listed above include "All Her und Lob soll Gottes sein", "Unser große Sünde und schwere Missetat", "Christ ist erstanden", and "Nun laßt uns den Leib begraben".[4]