How Rich a Treasure We Possess

How Rich a Treasure We Possess is a hymn by Isaac Watts first published in 1707 in his collection Hymns and Spiritual Songs, Book II. The hymn is a joyful and reverent meditation on the immeasurable value of Holy Scripture. Watts presents the Word of God as a spiritual treasure far surpassing earthly wealth, emphasizing its power to instruct, convert, comfort, and guide the believer in every stage of life.

The hymn draws heavily from Psalm 19:7-11, where the law of the Lord is described as perfect, sure, right, and more precious than gold. Watts echoes this biblical language by portraying Scripture as a storehouse of divine wisdom that enriches the soul. The treasure spoken of is not material prosperity but the saving and sanctifying truth God has revealed to His people. This aligns with Proverbs 2:1-6, which calls believers to seek wisdom as silver and hidden treasure.

A major theological emphasis of the hymn is the sufficiency and clarity of Scripture. Watts affirms that the Bible reveals God’s will, exposes human sin, and leads sinners to Christ. In harmony with 2 Timothy 3:15-17, the hymn presents Scripture as able to make one wise unto salvation and thoroughly equip the believer for godly living. The Word is shown not merely as information but as a living means by which God works grace in the heart.

The hymn also reflects a deep pastoral concern. Watts highlights the comforting role of Scripture in times of sorrow and trial, showing how God’s promises sustain faith when circumstances are dark. Colossians 3:16 is reflected in the call for the Word of Christ to dwell richly in the believer, shaping worship, doctrine, and daily obedience.

How Rich a Treasure We Possess stands as a strong example of Watts’s contribution to evangelical hymnody. It teaches the church to value Scripture as God’s precious gift, to read it with reverence and delight, and to trust it as the ultimate guide for faith and life. The hymn remains especially fitting for services that emphasize the authority, sufficiency, and beauty of God’s Word.