Brief Life Is Here Our Portion

"Brief Life Is Here Our Portion" is a classic medieval hymn originally written in Latin by Bernard of Cluny (also known as Bernard of Morlaix) around 1145 as part of his lengthy poem De Contemptu Mundi ("On Contempt for the World"). The hymn was translated into English by John Mason Neale in 1858, who introduced many of the finest medieval hymns to English-speaking churches. This hymn expresses the Christian conviction that earthly life is temporary while the believer's true home and lasting inheritance are found in the heavenly city prepared by God.

The opening lines immediately contrast the brevity and uncertainty of earthly existence with the eternal joy awaiting God's people. Bernard describes this present life as a pilgrimage marked by labor, sorrow, temptation, and conflict. Yet these hardships are not presented as reasons for despair. Instead, they remind believers that this world is not their permanent dwelling. The hymn echoes the biblical teaching that Christians are strangers and pilgrims on the earth, looking forward to a better country whose builder and maker is God.

A central theme throughout the hymn is perseverance in the Christian life. Bernard acknowledges that believers face trials, spiritual warfare, and the constant struggle against sin. Nevertheless, he encourages steadfast faith because Christ has secured the victory. The temporary burdens of this life will one day give way to everlasting peace, where suffering, tears, and death will be no more. This message has brought comfort to generations of Christians enduring hardship and affliction.

The hymn also presents a magnificent vision of the heavenly Jerusalem. Drawing richly from the imagery of Revelation 21 and other biblical passages, Bernard describes the beauty, holiness, and joy of God's eternal kingdom. Heaven is portrayed as a place of perfect fellowship with God, where the redeemed worship continually in His presence and experience complete freedom from sin and sorrow. This vision strengthens the believer's hope and encourages faithful endurance until Christ's return.

"Brief Life Is Here Our Portion" remains one of the finest expressions of Christian hope in all hymnody. Through Neale's masterful translation, Bernard of Cluny's timeless meditation continues to remind believers that earthly life is fleeting, but the promises of God are eternal. The hymn calls Christians to live with their eyes fixed upon the heavenly city, where everlasting joy and communion with Christ await all who belong to Him.