How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds

This past week at worship service we sang “How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds.” Although the hymn was familiar to me, I didn’t realize until I came home and looked it up, that it was written by John Newton (1725-1807). After working as a sailor and slave trader, Newton had a conversion experience and was eventually ordained as a curate in Olney Parish, Buckinghamshire, England. There, in addition to Sunday services, he began holding meetings for adults and children during the week, times when he could further explain the Scriptures. He began composing songs to go along with the Scripture lessons. Eventually a collection of these hymns, along with some composed by his friend, William Cowper, were published in 1779 in Olney Hymns, a hymnal which became popular in both England and America.

“How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds” was included in Olney Hymns under the title “The Name of Jesus.” Itis based upon the Song of Solomon 1:3: “Your anointing oils are fragrant; your name is oil poured out; therefore virgins love you.” Relax and enjoy this sweet treat as you begin the day.

For more hymns see these posts:

Grant Us Wisdom

Nearer to Thee

The Navy Hymn

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