send the Light!

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 1890

🎵 “Send the Light” – History of the Hymn

“Send the Light” is a well-known evangelical gospel hymn written in the late 19th century.

📖 Origins

  • Lyrics & Music: Charles Hutchinson Gabriel

  • Year Written: 1890

  • Full Title: “Send the Light (The Blessed Gospel Light)”

Gabriel was a prolific American gospel songwriter and composer who wrote thousands of hymns during his lifetime. He also composed the music for many of his own lyrics.

✍️ Background & Inspiration

The hymn was reportedly inspired by a sermon or mission appeal calling Christians to spread the Gospel message to distant lands. During the late 1800s, there was a strong missionary movement in the United States, and this hymn reflects that passion for evangelism.

The “light” in the song symbolizes:

  • The Gospel message

  • Salvation through Christ

  • Spiritual truth reaching those in darkness

🎶 Structure & Message

The refrain is the most recognizable part:

“Send the light, the blessed gospel light,
Let it shine from shore to shore…”

The verses emphasize:

  • Missionary outreach

  • Christian unity

  • Prayer and evangelism

  • The urgency of spreading the Gospel

🌎 Historical Impact

“Send the Light” became popular in:

  • Revival meetings

  • Missionary conferences

  • Evangelical church services

It remains especially well known in Baptist, Methodist, and other evangelical traditions.


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