On Jordan's Stormy Banks

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1787

“On Jordan’s Stormy Banks” – History of the Hymn

“On Jordan’s Stormy Banks I Stand” is a classic American hymn written in the 18th century. It is especially associated with Baptist and revival traditions.

📜 Author

The hymn was written by Samuel Stennett in 1787.
Stennett was an English Baptist pastor and hymn writer who contributed significantly to evangelical hymnody. He also wrote other well-known hymns such as “Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned.”

📖 Publication

The hymn first appeared in Stennett’s 1787 collection:

  • Hymns Adapted to the Divine Worship

It was originally published as a poem reflecting Christian hope and anticipation of heaven.

🎵 Musical Setting

Although written in England, the hymn became especially popular in the United States during the 19th century. It is most commonly sung to the tune:

  • Promised Land

This tune was composed by William Walker and published in his 1835 shape-note tunebook:

  • Southern Harmony

The lively, folk-like melody helped make the hymn a staple in American camp meetings and shape-note singing traditions.

🌊 Meaning and Imagery

The hymn draws imagery from the Bible:

  • The River Jordan symbolizes death.

  • Canaan’s fair and happy land represents Heaven (the Promised Land).

  • The believer stands on the “stormy banks” of life, looking forward to eternal rest.

The imagery reflects passages such as:

  • The Israelites crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land (Book of Joshua).

  • The Christian hope of entering heaven after earthly struggles.

🇺🇸 American Revival Influence

Though English in origin, the hymn became deeply associated with:

  • American frontier revivals

  • Baptist and Methodist camp meetings

  • Shape-note singing traditions in the American South

It remains popular in traditional hymnals and gospel collections today.

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