A Hymb of Faith
The poem explores the idea that even in a world filled with doubt and uncertainty, faith can be a powerful source of comfort and strength. It describes a person who has lost their way and is struggling to find meaning in life, but ultimately finds solace in their faith. The poem suggests that faith is not just a feeling or an emotion, but a choice that one makes every day. It requires effort and commitment, but it can bring a sense of peace and security that is hard to find elsewhere. Throughout the poem, there are references to nature and the cycles of life, which serve as a reminder of the impermanence of things and the need for faith in the face of uncertainty. The speaker describes the beauty of the natural world and the way it can inspire a sense of awe and wonder, but also acknowledges that even in its beauty, there is still room for doubt and fear. Ultimately, the poem suggests that faith is not just about believing in something, but about trusting in a higher power or a greater good. It requires surrender and letting go of one's own desires and expectations, and instead embracing the unknown with an open heart and mind.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 499 words
First lines
O, Thou that doth all things devise And fashon fer the best, He'p us who sees with mortul eyes To overlook the rest.
They's times, of course, we grope in doubt, And in afflictions sore; So knock the louder, Lord, without, And we'll unlock the door.
What this Textopian page supports
A Hymb of Faith is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1883 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical, Pastoral, Historical
- Length: 499 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Martyrs by Emily Dickinson
- The Chapel Of The Hermits by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Answer by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Heavenly Hills Of Holland Interludes In Holland by Henry Van Dyke
- The Healer by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem's themes revolve around faith, divine intervention, and religious imagery, making it primarily a work of religious poetry.
- Inspirational — The poem encourages readers to trust in divine plans and find contentment, offering an inspirational message.
- Philosophical — It explores philosophical themes such as the nature of life, death, and the human condition.
- Pastoral — The language and imagery evoke a pastoral simplicity, reflecting a rural or rustic setting.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Christianity · Faith · Spirituality · Meditation · Philosophy · Religion · Devotion · Inspiration · Hope