Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying
Wake, awake, for night is flying, the watchmen on the heights are crying
The King of Chorales — a majestic Advent and eschatological hymn based on the parable of the ten virgins. The three stanzas depict the watchmen's cry, the virgins' procession, and the wedding feast of heaven. Bach's cantata BWV 140 based on this chorale is one of his most celebrated works.
History & Background
Written by Philipp Nicolai in 1599 during a devastating plague in Unna. The German original Wachet auf ruft uns die Stimme is based on Matthew 25:1-13 (the parable of the ten virgins). Bach used it as the basis for Cantata BWV 140 (Wachet auf). Translated by Catherine Winkworth in 1858.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 436
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 31
- Lutheran Service Book — 516
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 67
Bulletin Note
Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying — Philipp Nicolai, 1599
Preaching Connection
Matthew 25:1-13 — the parable of the ten virgins; eschatological readiness.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Eschatological awakening progressing from urgent call to watchfulness, through joyful recognition of Christ's coming, to doxological praise of the Trinity and union with the redeemed community
Themes
Advent Eschatology Parable Bach