JESUS CHRIST >> PRIESTHOOD
SDAH 178
Once our blessed Christ of beauty
Was veiled off from human views;
But through suffering, death, and sorrow
He has rent the veil in two.
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For Worship Leaders
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Hymn Spotlight: The Unveiled Christ
Born out of deep personal grief, this hymn was written by N. B. Herrell after the loss of his young son. Based on Matthew 27:51, it reflects on the torn veil in the temple—a symbol that access to God was now opened through Christ’s sacrifice. The message is clear: we no longer need an earthly priest, for Christ, our High Priest, has made the way. This hymn remains a cherished reminder of the hope and healing found at the cross.
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Introductions for Sabbath School Song Service (based on specific lesson quarterlies):
As the author of both words and music, N. B. Herrell said, “At the time the song was written, we lived at Olivet, Illinois. I was pastoring a church at Georgetown, a nearby village. It was in the year 1916. Those were difficult and heartbreaking days. We had just suffered the loss of our 5-year-old son. While we were traversing this valley of sorrow, the song was born.”
The hymn is based on Mark 15:37, 38, and a similar passage in Matthew 27:50, 51. When an unseen hand tore in two the veil separating the Most Holy Place from the holy in the Jewish Temple, it signified that the way was forever opened to all who would enter into the presence of God through the merits of the shed blood of Christ. First published by the Nazarenes, the hymn became a favorite of many denominations.
N. B. Herrell (1879–1954) was born in Miami, Indiana, and served as pastor, evangelist, and district superintendent for many years. Among the churches he pastored was the Nazarene church at Arlington, Virginia.
Stanza:
1 – Matthew 27:51
2 – Hebrews 7:25
3 – Hebrews 1:6
R – Isaiah 53:3, 12
Text
1
Once our blessed Christ of beauty
Was veiled off from human view;
But through suffering, death, and sorrow
He has rent the veil in two.
Refrain:
O behold the Man of Sorrows!
O behold Him in plain view!
Lo! He is the mighty Conqueror
Since He rent the veil in two;
Lo! He is the mighty Conqueror
Since He rent the veil in two.
2
Yes, He is with God, the Father,
Interceding there for you;
For He is the Well beloved
Since He rent the veil in two.
3
Holy angels bow before Him,
Men of earth give praises due;
For He is the mighty Conqueror
Since He rent the veil in two.
Hymn Info
Biblical Reference
Mark 15:37, 38 (a) Matt 27:51 (b) Heb 7:25 (c) Heb 1:6 (r) Isa 53:3, 12
Author
N.B. Herrell (1879-1954)
Year Published
1916
Copyright
Copyright 1916. Renewed 1943 by Nazarene Publishing House. Used by permission.
Metrical Number
8.7.8.7.Ref.
Composer
N.B. Herrell
Year Composed
1916
