Der Mond ist aufgegangen
Der Mond ist aufgegangen|The Moon Has Risen
Also known as: Abendlied · Evening Song · Matthias Claudius Abendlied
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1. Der Mond ist aufgegangen,Die goldnen Sternlein prangenAm Himmel hell und klar;Der Wald steht schwarz und schweiget,Und aus den Wiesen steigetDer weiße Nebel wunderbar.
2. Wie ist die Welt so stilleUnd in der Dämmrung HülleSo traulich und so hold!Als eine stille Kammer,Wo ihr des Tages JammerVerschlafen und vergessen sollt.
3. Seht ihr den Mond dort stehen?Er ist nur halb zu sehen,Und ist doch rund und schön!So sind wohl manche Sachen,Die wir getrost belachen,Weil unsre Augen sie nicht sehn.
4. Wir stolze MenschenkinderSind eitle arme Sünder,Und wissen gar nicht viel;Wir spinnen Luftgespinste,Und suchen viele Künste,Und kommen weiter von dem Ziel.
5. Gott, laß uns dein Heil schauen,Auf nichts Vergänglichs bauen,Das uns vergehen kann!Laß unsern Gang nur richtenAufwärts zu dir und Lichten,Weil wir sonst nirgends bleiben an.
6. Verschone uns, lieber Herre,Mit allen Strafen schwere,Und laß uns fröhlich sein!Laß unsern Mund voll LachenUnd unser Herz froh machen,Und laß uns schlafen sanft und fein!
7. So legt euch denn, ihr Brüder,In Gottes Namen nieder;Kalt ist der Abendhauch.Verschone uns, Gott, die Sünde,Und laß uns morgen findenEinen Himmel wieder überm Rauch.
1. The moon has risen, The golden stars shine In the sky, bright and clear; The forest stands black and silent, And from the meadows rises The white mist wondrously. 2. How still the world is And in the twilight's shroud So cozy and so sweet! Like a quiet chamber, Where you the day's sorrow Should sleep away and forget. 3. Do you see the moon standing there? It is only half visible, And yet it is round and beautiful! So are many things, Which we confidently laugh at, Because our eyes do not see them. 4. We proud children of man Are vain, poor sinners, And know very little; We spin airy fancies, And seek many arts, And stray further from the goal. 5. God, let us behold your salvation, Build on nothing transient, That can pass away from us! Let our path be directed Upwards to you and light, For otherwise we find no lasting place. 6. Spare us, dear Lord, From all heavy punishments, And let us be joyful! Let our mouths be full of laughter And make our hearts glad, And let us sleep softly and finely! 7. So lie down then, you brothers, In God's name; Cold is the evening breath. Spare us, God, from sin, And let us tomorrow find A heaven again above the smoke.
The translation aims for literal accuracy while preserving the poetic and contemplative tone of the original. Some archaic phrasing is modernized for clarity without losing the essence.
“Der Mond ist aufgegangen” (The Moon Has Risen), often referred to as “Abendlied” (Evening Song), is one of the most beloved and enduring German folk songs and hymns. The lyrics were penned by the German poet Matthias Claudius in 1778 and first published in his newspaper, the 'Wandsbecker Boten'. Claudius, a prominent figure of the Sturm und Drang literary movement, imbued his poetry with deep philosophical and religious reflections, often drawing inspiration from everyday life and nature. The poem quickly gained popularity, and its most famous melody was composed by Johann Abraham Peter Schulz in 1790, solidifying its place in German cultural heritage. Its origins are rooted in the late 18th century, a period of significant intellectual and artistic ferment in Germany. Culturally, this song holds immense significance as both a lullaby and an evening hymn. It is traditionally sung in homes as a bedtime song for children, fostering a sense of peace and security. Beyond the domestic sphere, it is widely used in Protestant church services as an evening prayer or hymn, particularly during vespers or compline, due to its contemplative and devotional themes. The song's gentle melody and profound lyrics encourage reflection on nature, human humility, and divine grace, making it suitable for moments of quiet introspection. It is often associated with the transition from day to night, symbolizing rest, gratitude, and hope for the morning. Performance-wise, “Der Mond ist aufgegangen” is typically sung a cappella or accompanied by simple instruments such as a guitar, piano, or zither. Its accessible melody and harmonious structure make it a favorite for communal singing in various settings, from family gatherings to school choirs and church congregations. It is often performed in a gentle, soothing tempo, reflecting its function as a calming evening piece. The song's universal themes of nature, faith, and human vulnerability resonate deeply, making it a staple in German musical education and cultural events. Its simplicity allows for diverse interpretations while maintaining its core emotional impact. Today, “Der Mond ist aufgegangen” remains a cornerstone of German cultural identity, cherished across generations. It serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty of the natural world and the human need for spiritual reflection. Its enduring popularity is evident in its frequent inclusion in songbooks, children's literature, and musical curricula. Modern adaptations sometimes feature contemporary arrangements, but the essence of Claudius's poem and Schulz's melody remains largely untouched, testament to its timeless appeal. Its preservation is vital for maintaining a connection to Germany's rich literary and musical past, offering solace and inspiration in a rapidly changing world.
Historical Background
Composed as a poem by Matthias Claudius in 1778, during the Sturm und Drang literary movement in Germany. The most common melody was added by Johann Abraham Peter Schulz in 1790. It reflects the Enlightenment's emphasis on nature and individual spiritual reflection, combined with a pietistic Christian worldview.
Cultural Significance
A foundational piece of German cultural heritage, deeply ingrained in collective memory as a symbol of peace, home, and spiritual reflection. It bridges the gap between folk tradition and religious hymnody, fostering a sense of national identity and shared values across generations.
Usage & Performance Context
Primarily sung as a lullaby for children, an evening song in homes, and a hymn in Protestant church services (vespers, compline). It is also performed in schools, choirs, and community gatherings as a reflective piece.
What is 'Der Mond ist aufgegangen'?
'Der Mond ist aufgegangen' (The Moon Has Risen) is a famous German evening song and hymn. It is cherished for its poetic lyrics and soothing melody, often sung as a lullaby or during evening church services.
Who wrote the lyrics and composed the music for 'Der Mond ist aufgegangen'?
The lyrics were written by the German poet Matthias Claudius in 1778. The most widely known melody was composed by Johann Abraham Peter Schulz in 1790, making it a collaborative work that became a cultural staple.
What are the main themes of the song?
The song explores themes of nature's beauty (the moon, stars, forest, mist), human humility and sinfulness, the search for divine salvation, and the comfort of faith. It encourages contemplation and peace at the end of the day.
Is 'Der Mond ist aufgegangen' a public domain work?
Yes, both the poem by Matthias Claudius (1778) and the popular melody by Johann Abraham Peter Schulz (1790) are well beyond their copyright terms and are firmly in the public domain globally.
How is 'Der Mond ist aufgegangen' used culturally in Germany?
It is deeply ingrained in German culture, serving as a popular lullaby for children, a traditional evening song in homes, and a significant hymn in Protestant church services. It is also frequently performed in schools and choirs.
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