University of Virginia Library

HYMN 28. (C. M.) The Triumph of Christ over the Enemies of his Church, Isaiah lxiii. 1–3, &c.

I

What mighty man, or mighty God,
Comes travelling in state,
Along the Idumean road
Away from Bozrah's gate?

II

The glory of his robes proclaim
'Tis some victorious king:
‘'Tis I, the Just, th'Almighty One,
‘That your salvation bring.’

III

‘Why, mighty Lord,’ thy saints enquire,
‘Why thine apparel red?
‘And all thy vesture stain'd like those
‘Who in the wine-press tread?’

IV

‘I by myself have trod the press,
‘And crush'd my foes alone,
‘My wrath hath struck the rebels dead,
‘My fury stamp'd them down.

V

‘'Tis Edom's blood that dyes my robes
‘With joyful scarlet stains,
‘The triumph that my raiment wears
‘Sprung from their bleeding veins.

VI

‘Thus shall the nations be destroy'd
‘That dare insult my saints,
‘I have an arm t'avenge their wrongs
‘An ear for their complaints.’