HYMN #0115 A&M #115 • Ancient & Modern Meter: 7 6 7 6 Hymns Ancient & Modern (638)

A&M Hymn #115: Forgive them, O My Father

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Hymns Ancient & Modern

1

"Father, forgive them, for they know not
115 'what they do."
" Forgive them, 0 My Father,
They know not what they do :

2

The Saviour spake in anguish,
As the sharp nails went through.
No pain'd reproaches gave He
To them that shed His Blood,

3

But prayer and tenderest pity
Large as the love of God.
For me was that compassion,
For me that tender care;

4

1 need His wide forgiveness
As much as any there.
It was my pride and hardnes3
That hung Him on the Tree :

5

Those cruel nails, 0 Saviour,
Were driven in by me.
And often I have slighted
Thy gentle voice that chid ;

6

Forgive me too, Lord Jesus;
I knew not what I did,
0 depth of sweet compassion !
0 Love Divine and true !
Save Thou the souls that slight Thee,
And know not what they do.

6

Amen.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Forgive them, O My Father"

Collection: Hymns Ancient & Modern

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is designated as Hymn #115 in the venerable Hymns Ancient & Modern (1889 Standard Edition). Originally compiled under the guidance of the Rev. Sir Henry Williams Baker and a committee of dedicated church musicians, this hymnal harmonized historic Latin, Greek, and German hymnody with classical English psalmody.

It has served as a primary liturgical hymnal for the Church of England and the worldwide Anglican and Episcopal communion for generations, renowned for its doctrinal clarity and reverent choral tradition.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 7 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: 7 6 7 6
Stanza Structure: 7 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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