Christ Has Arisen, Alleluia
Christ has arisen, alleluia
This hymn embodies the Lutheran understanding of the resurrection as central to Christian salvation and the defeat of sin and death through Christ's power. It reflects the Reformation emphasis on Christ's triumph and the certainty of redemption that flows from the Easter proclamation.
History & Background
This text is Vajda's 1977 English translation of the ancient Latin hymn Victimae Paschali laudes, traditionally attributed to Bernard of Cluni from the 11th century. The translation captures the jubilant Easter proclamation of the medieval original while making it accessible to modern English-speaking congregations.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 369
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 136
- Lutheran Service Book — 466
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 197
- Lutheran Worship — 136
- Voices Together — 279
- With One Voice — 678
Translation
Bulletin Note
Attributed to Bernard of Cluni (11th century), this Easter hymn's soaring tune carries a Latin melody that has echoed through churches for nearly a thousand years, making it one of Christendom's most enduring testimonies to resurrection.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's movement from the finality of death to the proclamation of Christ's triumph embodies the Law-Gospel arc: it names our desperate condition, then overwhelms it entirely with the certainty of redemption.
Themes
Resurrection of Christ Victory over death Easter joy Alleluia proclamation Christian hope