Hymn before Action
The poem presents a solemn invocation for divine assistance before a battle, reflecting the tension and gravity of impending conflict. It opens with a vivid depiction of a world filled with anger and turmoil, where nations prepare for war. The speaker calls upon a higher power, seeking strength and guidance as they face the chaos of battle. The tone is both reverent and urgent, acknowledging human flaws such as pride and rebellion while pleading for mercy and support. The speaker expresses a desire for protection against the darker impulses of fear and vengeance, emphasizing the need for clarity and resolve in the face of violence. There is a recognition of shared humanity, as the speaker includes those who may not share their faith but are nonetheless bound by honor. This plea for understanding highlights the complexities of war, where the lines between right and wrong can blur. The invocation extends to a maternal figure, asking for intercession on behalf of all combatants, reinforcing the theme of shared suffering and the universal nature of mortality. The poem culminates in a call for divine aid, echoing historical precedents of divine intervention, and concludes with a powerful appeal for strength and clarity as they prepare to engage in battle. Overall, the work encapsulates the tension between human conflict and the search for divine guidance, reflecting on themes of honor, mortality, and the moral complexities of warfare.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1895 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, War Literature · 428 words
First lines
The earth is full of anger, The seas are dark with wrath, The Nations in their harness Go up against our path: Ere yet we loose the legions -- Ere yet we draw the blade, Jehovah of the Thunders, Lord God of Battles, aid!
High lust and froward bearing, Proud heart, rebellious brow -- Deaf ear and soul uncaring, We seek Thy mercy now! The sinner that forswore Thee, The fool that passed Thee by, Our times are known before Thee -- Lord, grant us strength to die!
What this Textopian page supports
Hymn before Action is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1895 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, War Literature, Patriotic, Historical
- Length: 428 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is a poem that employs structured verse and rhythm, characteristic of the genre.
- Religious — The poem invokes divine assistance and reflects themes of faith and supplication.
- War Literature — The content addresses themes of battle, courage, and the moral complexities of warfare.
- Patriotic — The poem expresses national pride and a call to arms, resonating with patriotic sentiments.
Tags
war · prayer · battle · faith · sacrifice · strength · divine · mercy · honor · courage · sorrow · intercession