Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying

“Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying” is one of the most celebrated Lutheran chorales, written by Philipp Nicolai at the close of the sixteenth century. It was composed during a time of great suffering, as Nicolai served as pastor during a devastating plague that claimed thousands of lives in his city. In the midst of death and uncertainty, this hymn was written as a song of hope, watchfulness, and joyful expectation of Christ’s return. Often called the “King of Chorales,” it has endured as a powerful expression of Christian longing for the final consummation of redemption.

The hymn is rooted firmly in the parable of the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13. The opening call to awaken echoes the midnight cry announcing the coming of the Bridegroom. Believers are urged to remain spiritually alert, clothed in faith, and ready for the arrival of Christ. This watchfulness is not fearful, but filled with joy and anticipation, for the Bridegroom comes to gather His faithful people.

Strong imagery from the book of Revelation runs throughout the hymn. Revelation 19:7-9 and Revelation 22:17 inform its language of the marriage feast of the Lamb and the invitation extended to the faithful. Christ is portrayed as the radiant Bridegroom, and the Church as His longing bride, eagerly awaiting the moment of union. The hymn beautifully balances reverence and affection, combining doctrinal clarity with deep emotional devotion.

Isaiah 52:1 also resonates in the call to awaken and arise, reinforcing the theme of spiritual readiness and renewal. Nicolai’s text reminds believers that the Christian life is a journey of expectation, marked by hope rooted in God’s promises rather than earthly security.

“Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying” is commonly associated with Advent but is equally fitting for services focused on Christ’s return, perseverance in faith, and eternal hope. Its enduring power lies in its ability to lift the eyes of the Church beyond present trials to the certain joy of meeting Christ, encouraging believers in every generation to remain faithful, watchful, and filled with hope.