Quotes by Johann Sebastian Bach

“Where there is devotional music, God is always at hand with His gracious presence.””

“I have always kept one end in view, namely ... to conduct a well-regulated church music to the honour of God.””

“The aim and final reason of all music should be none else but the glory of God and refreshing the soul. Where this is not observed there will be no music, but only a devilish hubbub.””

“Jesu, joy of man's desiring,Holy wisdom, love most bright;Drawn by Thee, our souls aspiringSoar to uncreated light.Word of God, our flesh that fashioned,With the fire of life impassioned,Striving still to truth unknown,Soaring, dying round Thy throne.Through the way where hope is guiding,Hark, what peaceful music rings;Where the flock, in Thee confiding,Drink of joy from deathless springs.Theirs is beauty's fairest pleasure;Theirs is wisdom's holiest treasure.Thou dost ever lead Thine ownIn the love of joys unknown.””

“O große Lieb, o Lieb ohn alle Maße,Die dich gebracht auf diese Marterstraße!Ich lebte mit der Welt in Lust und Freuden,Und du mußt leiden.O great love, o love beyond measure,that brought You to this path of martyrdom!I lived with the world in delight and joy,and You had to suffer.BWV 245 - "Johannes-Passion"Oratorio for Good Friday, 3. Chorale.””

“Tobe, Welt, und springe; ich steh' hier und singe in gar sichrer Ruh'.””

“Theirs is beauty's fairest pleasure;Theirs is wisdom's holiest treasure.Thou dost ever lead Thine ownIn the love of joys unknown.””

“Quaerendo invenietis””