You probably will recognize the traditional Irish folk tune of “Be Thou My Vision,” but you may be surprised to learn that the lyrics originated from the pen of a blind man!
According to tradition, in the 6th century St. Dallán Forgaill, an Irish monk nicknamed “Little Blind One” wrote a poem that languished mostly in obscurity until it was discovered and translated into English prose in 1905 by Irish scholar Mary Byrne. Five years later, Eleanor Hull adapted the translation into rhyming verses, and the song was included in hymnals soon thereafter.
The themes of the hymn are devotion to God, a prayer for wisdom, reliance on Him as our shelter and strength, and a belief that our spiritual inheritance is for “now and always.”
As you listen to the special music this Sunday, “Be Thou My Vision,” I hope you will catch a glimpse the vision as expressed in the final words of Verse 1:
Thou my best thought, by day and by night,
Waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.
by Becky Solomon for August 30, 2026