This chorale is a moment of rest and surrender after the intense anguish in Gethsemane. The congregation sings about total surrender to God's will. It is an answer to Jesus' prayer 'Thy will be done'.
The text emphasizes that God's will is always best, even when we don't understand it. The theme of trust ('Who trusts in God') is central. Bach uses a simple, comforting melody that everyone could sing along to.
Gethsemane
Was mein Gott will, das g'scheh allzeit
Chorale
•Congregation
|
No. 26part_29
What my God wills, let that always be,
His will, that is the best,
To help those he is ready,
Who believe firmly in him.
He helps from need,
The faithful God,
And chastens with measure.
Who trusts in God,
Firmly builds on him,
Him he will not forsake.
German
English
Was mein Gott will, das g'scheh allzeit,
Sein Will, der ist der beste,
Zu helfen den'n er ist bereit,
Die an ihn glauben feste.
Er hilft aus Not,
Der fromme Gott,
Und züchtiget mit Maßen.
Wer Gott vertraut,
Fest auf ihn baut,
Den will er nicht verlassen.
What my God wills, let that always be,
His will, that is the best,
To help those he is ready,
Who believe firmly in him.
He helps from need,
The faithful God,
And chastens with measure.
Who trusts in God,
Firmly builds on him,
Him he will not forsake.
Modern adaptation
Whatever God wills, happens. His will is best. He helps those who believe in him. He rescues from distress and punishes with moderation. Those who trust in God and build on him will not be abandoned.