Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind

By John Greenleaf Whittier

Lyrics

1. Dear Lord and Father of mankind,
forgive our foolish ways!
Reclothe us in our rightful mind;
in purer lives Thy service find,
in deeper rev'rence, praise.

2. In simple trust like theirs who heard,
beside the Syrian sea,
the gracious calling of the Lord,
let us, like them, without a word
Rise up and follow Thee.

3. O Sabbath rest by Galilee!
O calm of hills above,
where Jesus knelt to share with Thee
the silence of eternity,
interpreted by love!

4. Drop Thy still dews of quietness,
till all our strivings cease;
take from our souls the strain and stress,
and let our ordered lives confess
the beauty of Thy peace.

5. Breathe through the heats of our desire
Thy coolness and Thy balm;
let sense be dumb, let flesh retire;
speak through the earthquake, wind and fire,
O still small voice of calm!

Bible Reference

Psalm 46:10

About This Hymn

"Dear Lord and Father of Mankind" is a deeply contemplative and prayerful hymn written by John Greenleaf Whittier, one of America’s most respected poets of the nineteenth century. Originally appearing as part of Whittier’s poem The Brewing of Soma (1872), the text was later adapted into a hymn that has become cherished by Christians worldwide for its humble tone and emphasis on inner peace. The hymn’s message draws inspiration from Scripture, particularly Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” It encourages believers to reject noise, unrest, and distraction, seeking instead a quiet trust in God’s presence. Whittier’s words reflect his Quaker faith, which emphasized simplicity, peace, and silent worship, making this hymn a beautiful expression of a heart longing for spiritual stillness and renewal.

John Greenleaf Whittier’s Quaker upbringing profoundly influenced his literary and theological outlook. Though not a hymn writer by profession, he infused much of his poetry with strong moral convictions and biblical truths. “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” stands as one of his best-known religious works, reflecting a soul that yearned for holiness, humility, and closeness to God. The hymn emphasizes repentance, trust, and rest in Christ, rejecting emotional extremes or sensationalism and instead calling believers to a simple, sincere faith that reflects the character of Jesus.

The beauty of this hymn lies in its poetic simplicity and enduring relevance. Its prayerful petitions—asking God to forgive foolish ways, reclothe us in rightful minds, and calm our souls—resonate with believers seeking spiritual renewal. Often sung to the tune “Repton,” the hymn has been a staple in Christian worship, particularly in reflective services and times of prayer. Whittier’s artistry and spiritual depth give “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” a timeless quality, reminding the Church that true worship is not found in outward display but in quiet communion with God. This hymn continues to draw Christians back to a posture of reverence, humility, and peace in God’s presence.