Prayer During the Battle

BY M. GOVIND PAI

Theodor Korner’s (1791-1813) Gebet wahrend der Schlacht translated (from the German) in the original metre.

Father, I call on Thee!

Roaring the cannon enclouds me in steam,

Sparkling near me writhes and rattles the gleam

Marshal of battles, I call on Thee!

Father Thou, lead me!

Lead me to victory, or lead me to death!

Lord, I perceive Thy behests in Thy breath!

Lord, as Thou wilt e’en so lead me!

God, I perceive Thee!

As in the leaves rustling at harvest-tide,

So in the thunderstorm of battles wide,

Well of compassion, I perceive Thee!

Father Thou, bless me!

My life I commit to the will of Heaven,

Thou canst it take, for Thou hast it given;

To life or to death, Father, bless me!

Father, I praise Thee!

Tis no strife for the earth’s goods to contend,

We with our swords our holiest defend;

Then falling or winning, I praise Thee!

God, to Thee I yield me!

God, to Thee I yield me !

When me the thunder-claps of death will greet

And when my veins open and life will fleet

To Thee, my God, to Thee I yield me!

Father, I call on Thee!