# Peace-Hymn of the Republic explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Henry van Dyke Jr..

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown

The voice praying for America's blessing and guidance.

## Key lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_10_se/chapters/peace-hymn-of-the-republic
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_10_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_10_se/chapters