How Brightly Shines the Morning Star

“How Brightly Shines the Morning Star” is a Lutheran hymn composed and written by Philipp Nicolai around 1599 during a time of plague in Germany. The hymn celebrates Christ as the Morning Star, a biblical symbol of hope, light, and guidance, drawing from Revelation 22:16, where Jesus is described as the “bright morning star,” John 8:12, and Malachi 4:2, which speaks of the Sun of Righteousness rising with healing.

The hymn opens with a vivid depiction of the Morning Star shining brightly, calling the faithful to rejoice in the advent of Christ. Nicolai’s text balances eschatological anticipation with the personal comfort of believers, portraying Christ as the light that dispels the darkness of sin, suffering, and death. The imagery includes light piercing the night, the shepherd guiding the flock, and the promise of salvation for all who follow.

“How Brightly Shines the Morning Star” has remained a cherished hymn in Lutheran and broader Protestant worship, particularly during Advent and Christmas. Its combination of theological depth, poetic imagery, and memorable melody makes it a lasting declaration of Christ as the guiding light of the world, offering comfort, hope, and joy to believers in every generation.