Be Still, My Soul

November 9, 2026

This hymn was written by Katharina von Schlegel and translated by Jane L. Borthwick. It was set to music by Jean Sibelius. Katharina is the oldest composer we have examined so far, and as far as I know the only one born into nobility! Sibelius came along much, much, MUCH later and set Katharina's poem to music. He was the composer of the synphony Finlandia... and this melody is in there, somewhere, reportedly. I haven't checked; maybe you will feel motivated to do so. If you do, please leave a comment on what you learned.

This hymn feels particularly significant to me. It acknowledges pain and loss, grief and sorrow, while also reminding us that God is in control of it all. The hymn concludes by reminding us that "when change and tears are past, all safe and blessed we shall meet at last." Definitely comforting.

Here is the link to the sheet music, available (again) on musecore.com.

The recording I have chosen to share with you today is by the Norton Hall Band. When I began the original hymn journey in 2020, this is the version that I found. I have found it comforting on many occasions, and I have come to respect and appreciate all their music because I originally found them through this hymn. I hope this hymn encourages you today, and perhaps you will remember it in the future when you need encouragement.

Be blessed,

Wendy