At that time in Jerusalem, a lamp was kept perpetually burning in the empty tomb of Christ, its glow a symbol of the living light of Jesus.
He was] an aged theologian, who, when about to consummate his martyrdom by fire, sang a hymn of joy, which he left in writing to his disciples.” He is probably identical to the bishop who was martyred with ten disciples in Sebaste, Armenia, on July 16 during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, most probably c. A.D. 305.
[2] Because Keble retained the original irregular metre, it was not suited to any existing hymn tune; however, Sir John Stainer wrote music specifically for it based on Anglican chant.
For example, the 1979 American Book of Common Prayer prescribes it, in the prose translation given below, as an optional invitatory canticle immediately preceding the psalms appointed for the day.
Now as we come to the setting of the sun, and our eyes behold the vesper light, we sing thy praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
[5] Hail, gladdening Light, of His pure glory poured Who is the immortal Father, heavenly, blest, Holiest of Holies, Jesus Christ our Lord!
Now we are come to the sun’s hour of rest; The lights of evening round us shine; We hymn the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit divine!
Worthiest art Thou at all times to be sung With undefiled tongue, Son of our God, Giver of life, alone: Therefore in all the world Thy glories, Lord, they own.
[12] O gladsome light, O grace Of God the Father's face, The eternal splendour wearing; Celestial, holy, blest, Our Saviour Jesus Christ, Joyful in thine appearing.
Now, ere day fadeth quite, We see the evening light, Our wonted hymn outpouring; Father of might unknown, Thee, his incarnate Son, And Holy Spirit adoring.
O Son of God, the source of life, Praise is your due by night and day; Our happy lips must raise the strain Of your esteemed and splendid name.
[14] [Storey did not preserve the ancient text-order by which the doxology occurs in v. 2 rather than v. 3] Light of the world in grace and beauty, mirror of God's eternal face, transparent flame of love's free duty, you bring salvation to our race.
Now, as we see the lights of evening, we raise our voice in hymns of praise; worthy are you of endless blessing, Sun of our night, Lamp of our days.