HYMN #0141 SSS #141 • SS&S Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #141: The head that once

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Sacred Songs & Solos

1

The head that once was crowned with
thorns
Is crowned with glory now:
A royal diadem adorns
The mighty Victor’s brow.

2

The highest place that heaven affords
Is His by sovereign right:
The King of kings, and Lord of lords,
He reigns in perfect light.

3

The joy of all who dwell above,
The joy of all below,
To whom He manifests His love,
And grants His name to know.

4

To them the cross, with all its shame,
With all its grace, is given:
Their name, an everlasting name;
Their joy, the joy of heaven.

5

They suffer with their Lord below,
They reign with Him above;
Their profit and their bliss to know
The fulness of His love.

6

His cross to them is life and health,
Though it was death to Him;
Their present hope, and joy, and wealth,
And their eternal theme.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "The head that once"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #141 in Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200 Hymns), compiled by the American gospel singer and hymnologist Ira David Sankey (1840–1908).

Sankey popularized these sacred songs during the transatlantic evangelistic campaigns led alongside Dwight L. Moody between 1873 and 1903. The compilation became one of the most widely printed hymnals in Christendom, cherished by Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal congregations throughout the world.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 6 stanzas, the text centers on foundational biblical themes: adoration and praise to God, humble reliance upon divine grace, steadfast faith amid trials, and the everlasting hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether sung during Sunday corporate worship or read during family devotions and personal prayer, these stanzas guide the believer to reflect on God's unending mercies and steadfast faithfulness across every season of life.

🎼 Musical Structure & Liturgy

Poetic Meter: Standard Metrical Hymnody
Stanza Structure: 6 Verses with cathedral pipe organ accompaniment
Liturgical Placement: Suitable as an Opening Hymn of Praise, Call to Worship, Offertory, or Closing Doxology
Pipe Organ Audio: Multi-verse accompaniment synthesized to support organists, choir rehearsals, and home worship

⚖️ Public Domain Archival: This historic hymn text and tune are in the worldwide public domain and may be freely printed in church bulletins or projected for public worship.

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