Harriet Auber

Harriet Auber (1773–1862) was an English poet and hymnist whose work bridge the gap between traditional metrical psalmody and the more subjective, lyrical hymns of the 19th century. Born in London, Auber lived a remarkably quiet and secluded life in Hertfordshire, primarily in the villages of Broxbourne and Hoddesdon. Despite her private nature, her literary contributions were substantial, centered largely on her 1829 publication, Spirit of the Psalms. This collection consisted of her original versions of the Psalms, many of which were adopted by major denominational leaders, including Charles Spurgeon, who included twenty of her pieces in his own hymnal.

Auber is most famous for her exquisite and enduring lyric, "Our blest Redeemer, ere He breathed," a hymn celebrated for its gentle, devotional tone regarding the Holy Spirit. Her ability to translate the ancient Hebrew Psalms into "useful versions" for modern Christian worship made her a staple in both British and American hymnals. Her work often focused on themes of divine guidance and the peaceful nature of the Christian life, as seen in her Epiphany hymn, "Bright was the guiding star that led."

The breadth of her influence is seen in the vast number of her psalm versions that remained in common use long after her death. These include "With joy we hail the sacred day" and "Sweet is the work, O Lord," both of which reflect her talent for capturing the sanctity of the Sabbath. Auber's writing is noted for its clarity and lack of artifice, prioritizing the spiritual utility of the text over complex poetic flourishes. She passed away in Hoddesdon at the age of 88, leaving behind a body of work that continues to provide a voice for quiet, earnest congregational worship.