Nikolaus Decius
1485–1541 · Germany · Medieval
Nikolaus Decius (c. 1485-1541) was a German Lutheran theologian and hymn writer who played a significant role in the development of Protestant hymnody during the early Reformation. As a chaplain and trained musician, he contributed numerous hymn texts and melodies that helped establish the German chorale as a central element of Lutheran worship. Among his notable compositions is the hymn "Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr" (All Glory Be to God on High), which became influential in Protestant churches. Decius's work bridged the transition from medieval Catholic liturgical music to the vernacular hymn tradition of Protestantism. His contributions to hymn writing made him one of the formative figures in establishing the repertoire that would define Lutheran musical practice for centuries to come.
Hymn Texts (12)
- O Jesus Lamb of God Thou Art
- Lord God We All to Thee Give Praise
- Glory Be to God in Heaven
- O Christ, Our True and Only Light
- We Praise You and Acknowledge You, O God
- Lamb of God, Pure and Holy
- Lamb of God
- The Only Son from Heaven
- Father Let Me Dedicate
- Lamb of God Pure and Sinless
- O Jesus Lamb of God You Are
- Praise God the Lord Ye Sons of Men