Bist du bei mir
Natalie Dessay/Rolando Villazon/London Symphony Orchestra/Philippe Rombi Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

If Thou art near when life is closing
All joyful shall I fall asleep,
Be Thou with me as I awaken,
And claim my soul when I arise
If Thou art near when life is closing,
All joyful shall I fall asleep,
Ah, how serene, were thus my passing,
Thy tender hand upraised in blessing
Would sanctify my slumber deep




Be Thou with me, as I awaken
And claim my soul when I arise

Overall Meaning

The song Bist du bei mir, performed by Natalie Dessay, Rolando Villazon, London Symphony Orchestra and Philippe Rombi, is a German aria that expresses a deep sense of love, trust and faith. The lyrics speak of the singer's desire for their loved one to be with them through all stages of life, even in death. The opening phrase "If Thou art near when life is closing" suggests that the singer is not afraid of death, but rather sees it as a peaceful end to life. They believe that if their loved one is with them during their final moments, they will be able to fall asleep happily and contentedly.


The second verse speaks of the singer's wish for their loved one to be with them as they awaken and throughout their daily life. The repeated phrase "Be Thou with me" emphasizes the singer's desire for their loved one's constant presence and protection. The final line "And claim my soul when I arise" refers to the singer's belief in an afterlife, and their hope that their loved one will be waiting for them after they pass away.


Overall, the song is a beautiful expression of the deep love, trust, and faith that can exist between two people.


Line by Line Meaning

If Thou art near when life is closing
If You are with me as I approach the end of my life


All joyful shall I fall asleep
I will peacefully succumb to death with joy in my heart


Be Thou with me as I awaken
I ask for Your presence as I wake up in the morning


And claim my soul when I arise
May You take my soul into Your care as I begin my day


Ah, how serene, were thus my passing
My death would be peaceful and tranquil if this were to happen


Thy tender hand upraised in blessing
Your gentle hand, raised in blessing, would add to this serenity


Would sanctify my slumber deep
Your blessing would make my deep sleep holy and fulfilling




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS

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