The voice that breathed o’er Eden,
That earliest wedding-day,
The primal marriage blessing,–
It hath not passed away.
Still in the pure espousal
Of Christian man and maid
The Triune God is with us,
The threefold grace is said.
Be present, loving Father,
To give away this bride
As Thou gav’st Eve to Adam,
A helpmeet at his side.
Be present, Son of Mary,
To join their loving hands
As Thou didst bind two natures
In Thine eternal bands.
Be present, Holiest Spirit,
To bless them as they kneel,
As Thou for Christ, the Bridegroom,
The heavenly Spouse dost seal.
Oh, spread Thy pure wing o’er them,
Let no ill power find place
When onward to Thine altar
Their hallowed path they trace.
Song Meaning
This wedding hymn calls on Father, Son, and Spirit to bless a couple, using Eden’s first union and Christ’s bridegroom imagery.
Biblical Message
Genesis 2:18–24 describes the first human union; John 2:1–11 places Jesus at a wedding; Ephesians 5:31–32 uses marriage imagery for Christ and the church.
Reflection
The ancient language offers a prayer for God’s care over a real marriage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message of “The Voice that Breathed o’er Eden”?
This wedding hymn calls on Father, Son, and Spirit to bless a couple, using Eden’s first union and Christ’s bridegroom imagery.
Which Bible passages connect with the song?
Genesis 2:18–24 describes the first human union; John 2:1–11 places Jesus at a wedding; Ephesians 5:31–32 uses marriage imagery for Christ and the church.
When can this song be used in worship?
A Christian wedding ceremony.