Poetry · Chapter
Peace-Hymn of the Republic explained
A prayerful hymn invoking God's blessing upon America, asking for guidance, unity, justice, and peace across the land.
What happens
A prayerful hymn invoking God's blessing upon America, asking for guidance, unity, justice, and peace across the land.
Themes in this chapter
Duty and Patriotism
The hymn calls for America to be befriended and guided by God, emphasizing patriotic duty and national blessing.
Faith and Doubt
Expresses faith in God's providence and the hope for righteous governance.
Characters to notice
- Unknown
The voice praying for America's blessing and guidance.
Key passages
“O Lord our God, Thy mighty hand Hath made our country free; From all her broad and happy land May praise arise to Thee.”
We thank God for granting freedom to our nation and offer praise from every part of the land.
Opening invocation acknowledging divine role in America's liberty.
“The strength of every State increase In Union’s golden chain; Her thousand cities fill with peace, Her million fields with grain.”
May each state grow stronger within the unbreakable Union, and may cities enjoy peace while farms yield abundant harvests.
Prayer for national unity and prosperity.
“Bring down the proud, lift up the poor, Unequal ways amend; By justice, nation-wide and sure, America befriend!”
Humble the arrogant, raise the needy, correct injustices, and through unwavering justice, bless America.
Appeal for social equity and righteous governance.