Bringing In the Sheaves

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 1874

Bringing In the Sheaves – History & Background

“Bringing In the Sheaves” is a well-known American gospel hymn from the late 19th century, closely associated with evangelistic and revival movements.

📜 Origins (1874)

  • Lyrics: Written in 1874 by Knowles Shaw, a prominent gospel singer and evangelist.

  • Music: Composed the same year by George A. Minor.

  • First Published: In the hymn collection Gospel Songs No. 2, compiled by Minor.

Shaw reportedly wrote the text quickly—tradition says in just minutes—while reflecting on missionary work and the spiritual “harvest” of souls.

🌾 Biblical Inspiration

The hymn is based on Psalm 126:5–6, which speaks of sowing in tears and reaping in joy:

“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,
shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”

The imagery of sowing and reaping symbolizes Christian evangelism and faithful labor that eventually yields spiritual reward.

🎶 Popularity & Influence

  • Became a staple in American revival meetings during the late 1800s.

  • Frequently sung in Baptist, Methodist, and evangelical churches.

  • Recorded by numerous artists, including country and gospel performers in the 20th century.

  • Featured in films and television, often to evoke rural American religious life.

The hymn’s upbeat refrain—“Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves…”—made it especially memorable and suitable for congregational singing.

✝️ Themes

  • Faithfulness in hardship

  • Evangelism and missionary work

  • Hope and ultimate joy

  • Spiritual harvest

Its agricultural metaphor resonated strongly in 19th-century rural America and continues to carry symbolic meaning today.

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