Johann Heermann
1585–1654 · Germany · Reformation
Johann Heermann (1585-1654) was a German Lutheran pastor and prolific hymn writer whose works profoundly shaped Protestant devotion during the turbulent Thirty Years' War. Despite personal suffering, including the loss of his family and parish during the conflict, Heermann composed over 600 hymns and spiritual songs that emphasized intimate, emotional piety and consolation for the afflicted. His works, including the beloved hymn "O Haupt voll Blut und Wunden" (O Sacred Head Now Wounded), became foundational to German Lutheran hymnody and were later adapted by composers including J.S. Bach. Heermann's contribution bridged the gap between the Reformation's congregational singing tradition and the introspective devotional poetry of German Baroque Protestantism, making him one of the most significant hymn writers of his era.
Hymn Texts (29)
- Ah Holy Jesus How Hast Thou Offended
- Enslaved by Sin and Bound in Chains
- Feed Thy Children, God Most Holy
- God of My Life to Thee I Call
- Grant Lord Jesus that My Healing
- Jesus in Thy Dying Woes
- Jesus, Grant that Balm and Healing
- Jesus, in Your Dying Woes
- Lord Jesus Christ You Have Bestowed
- Lord We Come before Thee Now
- Lord When We Bend before Thy Throne
- Now the Hour of Worship O'er
- O Dearest Jesus, What Law Hast Thou Broken
- O Dearest Jesus, What Law Have You Broken
- O God Thou Faithful God
- O God, My Faithful God
- O How Great Is Thy Compassion
- O Jesus Blessed Lord My Praise
- O Thou Love Unbounded
- O Thou Who Hast of Thy Pure Grace
- O What Precious Balm and Healing
- Oh Darkest Woe
- Oh Enter Lord Thy Temple
- Oh How Great Is Thy Compassion
- Our Children Jesus Calls
- To Thee, Omniscient Lord of All
- When Sinners See Their Lost Condition
- While with Ceaseless Course the Sun
- With Broken Heart and Contrite Sigh