All Men Living Are But Mortal
All men living are but mortal
The hymn teaches a distinctly Lutheran perspective on death as universal human reality, yet views it through the lens of resurrection and eternal life through Christ. It exemplifies how Lutheran tradition transforms the medieval memento mori theme into evangelical comfort rooted in Christ's victory over death.
History & Background
Written by Caspar Huberinus in the 1540s as a German meditative hymn on human mortality and resurrection. Translated and adapted into English in the 19th century and included in Lutheran hymnals, particularly The Lutheran Hymnal.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 294
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 601
Translation
Bulletin Note
Caspar Huberinus (1500–1527), German Lutheran theologian, composed this 1540 hymn as a meditation on universal mortality redeemed by Christ's resurrection—a distinctly Lutheran echo of medieval ascetical tradition remade by grace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms medieval memento mori into evangelical proclamation: the Law humbles us in our shared mortality, while the Gospel raises us through Christ's death-defeating power and promises eternal life to all who believe.
Themes
mortality and human condition memento mori comfort in Christ resurrection hope judgment and eternity