Passion Hymns

The Passíusálmar or Passion Hymns are a collection of 50 poetic texts written by the Icelandic minister and poet, Hallgrímur Pétursson.

[1] The texts explore the Passion narrative, as traditionally presented, from the point where Christ enters the Garden of Gethsemane to his death and burial.

Hallgrímur began composing the work in 1656, while serving as pastor of Saurbær in Hvalfjörður.

By the end of the century they had become so popular in Iceland that five editions had been published.

The poems were translated into many other languages, including Latin, English, Chinese and Danish.

This new translation received the imprimatur of the Bishop of Iceland, Sigurbjörn Einarsson, and is published by Hallgrímskirkja.

In addition, a selection of texts were translated by Anglican Bishop Charles Venn Pilcher and published in a pamphlet entitled "Thirty-One Meditations on Christ's Passion"; this translation, although incomplete, is regarded as more faithful to Hallgrímur's Lutheran theology.

The Passíusálmar quickly became an important part of Icelandic religious expression, being sung or read during Lent in every Icelandic home; today, they are broadcast on the radio during that time of year.

Peter's Defence and Malchus' Wounded Ear Hymn VIII.

The False Witnesses and Caiaphas' Judgment Hymn XIV.

Herod's Curiosity and the Gorgeous Robe Hymn XXII.

The Scarlet Robe and Crown of Thorns Hymn XXV.