Rachel Evans
Be Not Afraid is a popular Catholic hymn written by Jesuit priest and composer Robert J. Dufford, also known as Bob Dufford or Father Dufford. The hymn is directly inspired by scripture quotes from Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20 in the Bible. It was written to encourage the faithful that God will always be with them and to illustrate God's divine providence and love. The hymn has been included in the hymnals of every Christian denomination and is often sung in times of fear or grief.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lyricist | Bob Dufford, S.J. (a Jesuit priest) |
| Year | 1975 |
| Biblical Inspiration | Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20 |
| Message | God's protection and divine providence |
| Occasions | Times of fear or grief |
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What You'll Learn
- 'Be Not Afraid' is a popular hymn that comforts people in times of fear or grief
- The song was written by Jesuit priest Robert J. Dufford in 1975
- Dufford was inspired by Bible quotes from Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20
- The hymn reassures Christians of God's protection and divine providence
- It is included in the hymnals of every Christian denomination
'Be Not Afraid' is a popular hymn that comforts people in times of fear or grief
"Be Not Afraid" is a popular and well-loved hymn that has brought comfort to many people in times of fear, grief, or uncertainty. The hymn, written by Jesuit priest and composer, Robert J. Dufford (also known as Bob Dufford or Father Dufford) in 1975, is directly inspired by scripture quotes from the Bible.
The lyrics of "Be Not Afraid" are a powerful message of God's protection and love, assuring the faithful that God will always be with them. For example, the hymn includes the lines, "You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way...If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all." These words are a direct reflection of Dufford's own anxiety and fear about his future as an ordained priest, and they resonate with people from all Christian denominations.
The hymn has been described as a source of comfort during significant life transitions, including the death of loved ones, and its message of divine providence and reassurance has resonated with people from all walks of life. In an informal Twitter survey by *America* magazine, readers shared stories of how they sang the hymn to comfort dying relatives or to face intimidating changes in their lives.
The popularity and impact of "Be Not Afraid" can also be seen in how it has been included in the hymnals of various Christian denominations and has been featured in wedding ceremonies, indicating its ability to bring comfort and hope to people from all backgrounds during significant life events.
Through its uplifting message and biblical inspiration, "Be Not Afraid" has become a cherished hymn that continues to offer solace and strength to individuals facing life's challenges and uncertainties.
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The song was written by Jesuit priest Robert J. Dufford in 1975
"Be Not Afraid" is a Catholic hymn written by Jesuit priest Robert J. Dufford, also known as Bob Dufford or Father Dufford. Dufford was born in 1943 and is a member of the St. Louis Jesuits musical group and a composer of Catholic liturgical music. He wrote the hymn in 1975, drawing direct inspiration from the Bible, specifically Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20. The song is based on biblical examples of God's protection, illustrating His divine providence and love.
The lyrics of "Be Not Afraid" offer reassurance and comfort to the faithful, encouraging them to trust in God's presence and protection through life's challenges. The message resonates with people of all denominations, and the hymn is often used in Christian ceremonies and weddings.
The song's message is powerful and uplifting, assuring listeners that even in the midst of difficulties, they will be protected and guided by God. The hymn conveys the idea that even when facing the unknown or wandering in foreign lands, one should not be afraid because God is always with them.
Dufford's composition has stood the test of time, and "Be Not Afraid" remains one of the most beloved and well-known worship songs across Christian denominations. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the impact of Dufford's musical ministry and his ability to capture the comfort and hope found in faith.
In addition to "Be Not Afraid," Dufford has composed other notable songs, including "Sing to the Mountains," "Like a Shepherd," "Let Heaven Rejoice," and "All the Ends of the Earth." His work continues to inspire and uplift people, providing a sense of solace and connection to their faith.
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Dufford was inspired by Bible quotes from Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20
"Be Not Afraid" is a Catholic hymn by Robert J. Dufford, a Jesuit priest and composer of Catholic liturgical music. The hymn, written in 1975, encourages the faithful that God will always be with them and that they should not be afraid.
The lyrics of "Be Not Afraid" are directly inspired by Bible quotes from Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20. Isaiah 43:2-3 says:
> "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead."
This passage from Isaiah serves as a powerful reminder of God's protection and presence through life's challenges. It assures believers that even in the midst of trials, they will not be overwhelmed or consumed by them.
On the other hand, Luke 6:20 states:
> "And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: 'Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.'"
Luke's verse speaks of the blessings and comfort that come to those who follow Jesus and find solace in their faith.
By drawing on these biblical passages, Dufford's hymn "Be Not Afraid" becomes a testament to God's faithfulness and a source of strength for those facing uncertainty or adversity. The hymn reassures believers of God's constant presence and protection, just as the biblical passages from Isaiah and Luke assure followers of their salvation and God's unwavering support.
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The hymn reassures Christians of God's protection and divine providence
"Be Not Afraid" is a Catholic hymn that reassures Christians of God's protection and divine providence. The hymn, written by Jesuit priest and composer Robert J. Dufford in 1975, is inspired by scripture quotes from the Bible, specifically Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20. The lyrics of "Be Not Afraid" directly allude to biblical examples that showcase God's presence and protection during life's challenges and trials.
For instance, the line "You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst" evokes the image of God guiding his people through the wilderness, as seen in the book of Exodus. Similarly, "You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way" speaks to God's promise to lead and protect his followers even in unfamiliar territories. The hymn continues with "You shall speak your words in foreign lands and all will understand," alluding to the Tower of Babel narrative and God's provision for effective communication.
The hymn further emphasizes God's presence and protection in more explicit terms: "I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest." This assurance is a reminder of God's leading and provision of rest amidst life's journeys. The line "If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown" is a direct reference to Isaiah 43:2, where God promises to be with his people even in the midst of turbulent waters. Similarly, "If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed" echoes the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the book of Daniel, where God protected them from the fiery furnace.
The hymn also addresses the spiritual battle against evil and death, with the lyrics "If you stand before the power of hell and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all." This reminder of God's presence in the face of spiritual struggles is a source of comfort and strength for Christians. "Be Not Afraid" has been a source of comfort and strength for many Christians, including Father Dufford himself, who found solace in the hymn during his father's death. The hymn's message of God's protection and providence has resonated with people of various Christian denominations, who have used it to comfort dying relatives or face intimidating life transitions.
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It is included in the hymnals of every Christian denomination
"Be Not Afraid", a popular hymn by Jesuit priest and composer Robert J. Dufford (also known as Bob Dufford or Father Dufford), is included in the hymnals of every Christian denomination. The song was written in 1975, although one source mentions 1972 as the year of its inception. Dufford was inspired to write the song when he himself was afraid of the future and the unknown. He was grappling with anxiety about his future as a priest, and his spiritual director suggested he pray with the Annunciation in mind.
The hymn's lyrics are directly inspired by the Bible, specifically Isaiah 43:2-3 and Luke 6:20. Isaiah 43:2-3 reads:
> "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead."
Luke 6:20 states:
> "And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: 'Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.'"
The song is a message of comfort and encouragement, reminding the faithful that God will always be with them and protect them, even in the face of fear, grief, or intimidating transitions in life. It is a testament to God's divine providence and love. The hymn has brought comfort to many people, including Dufford himself, who found solace in the song after the death of his father.
The inclusion of "Be Not Afraid" in the hymnals of every Christian denomination underscores the universality of its message and its ability to resonate with people of various religious backgrounds. It is a powerful testament to the comfort and strength that faith can provide during life's challenges and transitions.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, 'Be Not Afraid' is a Catholic hymn.
'Be Not Afraid' was written by Jesuit priest and composer Robert J. Dufford (also known as Bob Dufford or Father Dufford) in 1975.
The hymn is about God's protection and divine providence. It is meant to comfort those facing fear or grief.
The lyrics draw directly from biblical examples of God's protection, such as: "You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way. You shall speak your words in foreign lands and all will understand. You shall see the face of God and live. Be not afraid. I go before you always."
No, the hymn has been included in the hymnals of every Christian denomination, although it may be more commonly sung during intimate or challenging times rather than at regular church services.
