Sunday, 12 December 2021

N.F.S. Grundtvig: 'Hvad Solskin er for det sorte Muld'


 

WHAT SUNSHINE IS FOR THE RICH BLACK EARTH

 

What sunshine is for the rich black earth,

is true enlightenment for earth’s kinsmen.

Red gold is too of far lesser worth

than knowing God and what’s deep within one.

Though darkness storm us

in bright arms glorious

that light and warm us

our joy shines clear!

 

As gleams the sun, when by spring beguiled,

and in the summer sends warmth that’s healing,

all true enlightenment’s meek and mild,

so each heart’s drawn by its force appealing.

Though darkness storm us

in bright arms glorious

that light and warm us

is heartfelt bliss!

 

Like plants all flower and the young corn climbs

in long, warm days when the night seems farthest,

our youth, enlightened in northern climes,

will flower and promise a rich life-harvest.

Though darkness storm us

in bright arms glorious

that light and warm us

will all bear fruit!

 

Like birdsong deep in the leafy grove

that rings out sweetly in spring and summer,

the mother tongue that our youth’s lips moves

will ring out sweetly when light’s forthcoming.

Though darkness storm us

in bright arms glorious

that light and warm us

the voice sounds clear!

 

Our Lord God praises the light that burns,

as truth is loved, so is light’s ambition,

and with Our Lord, who all scoffing spurns,

the work begun here will gain fruition.

Though darkness storm us

in bright arms glorious

that light and warm us

may our school stand!

 

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