The Father of English Hymnody

Isaac Watts, Prolific British Hymn Author

May 14, 2009

He was never physically strong and was mentally unstable at times, yet he wrote some of the most glorious hymns in history.

Isaac Watts was one of the most prolific hymn writers in history, and was known as The Father of Hymnody in his lifetime. He was born on July 17, 1674, in Southampton, England, and was educated at an abbey at Stoke Newington from 1690 to 1694. Appointed assistant minister for the Independent Congregation at Mark Lane, London, in 1699, he became its pastor in 1792.

Isaac Watts' Publication

The young Isaac Watts was no doubt a genius. He learned Latin at the age of 4; Greek at 9; French at 11 and Hebrew at 13. He went on to write poetry in Latin as well as in English. He wrote an most successful book of poetry for children, and a text book on astronomy and geometry. His text on logic was used at Cambridge, Oxford, Yale and Harvard universities.

First Collection of Hymns

His best hymns were written while he was in his early twenties, before he undertook the duties of pastor. He authored over 600, which were published in his first collection Horae Lyricae, in 1706.The next year he published Hymns and Spiritual Songs, with 200 hymns divided into three parts:

Isaac Watts' Illnesses

Watts, never robust, suffered a severe illness at one point, and was incapacitated for four years. This left him physically weakened, but also with a mental or nervous ailment that stayed with him for life. Nevertheless, he continued to write and do his parish work whenever possible, with the help and understanding of his congregation.

Famous Hymns

Watts was the author of many famous hymns, including When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, Joy to the World, I'll Praise My Maker While I've Breath, O God, Our Help in Ages past, and many others. He was quote as saying, The singing of God's praise is the part of worship most closely related to heaven; but its performance among us in the worst on earth .(Amazing Grace by Kenneth W. Osbeck Kregel Publications, Page 106).

One of the most influential voices in Christian worship and hymnody, Watts did his amazing work with a physical and mental disability. Isaac watts, The Father of English Hymnody, suffered a stroke in 1739 which left him without speech or the ability to write. He continued to work with the help of a secretary. He died on November 25, 1748.

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