Henry Lyte
 | This subject may not be notable enough for an article according to our general notability guideline. (January 2025) |
 | This article does not have any sources. (January 2025) |
Henry Francis Lyte (1793–1847) was a Scottish Anglican minister, hymn writer, and poet. He is best remembered for his hymns, especially "Abide with Me," which has been sung across Christian denominations and is particularly associated with times of reflection and solemnity.
Key Facts about Henry Lyte:
[change | change source]- Early Life:
- Born in Ednam, Scotland, on June 1, 1793.
- His father abandoned the family, and his early life was marked by hardship.
- Education and Ministry:
- Studied at Trinity College, Dublin.
- Became an ordained minister and served in various parishes, ultimately settling in Lower Brixham, a fishing village in Devon, England.
- Literary Contributions:
- A prolific writer of hymns and poems.
- Best-known works include "Abide with Me" and "Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven."
- His hymns often reflect deep spirituality, personal struggles, and hope in God.
- "Abide with Me":
- Written in 1847, shortly before his death from tuberculosis.
- The hymn expresses a profound longing for God's presence during trials and at the end of life.
- Inspired by the account of Jesus walking with the disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:29, where they urge Him to stay: "Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent."
- Death:
- Passed away in Nice, France, on November 20, 1847, seeking a warmer climate for his health.
- His legacy endures through his hymns, cherished worldwide.