Lyrics
Immortal, invisible,
God only wise,
In light inaccessible
Hid from our eyes,
Most blessèd, most glorious,
The Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious,
Thy great Name we praise.
Unresting, unhasting,
And silent as light,
Nor wanting, nor wasting,
Thou rulest in might;
Thy justice, like mountains,
High soaring above
Thy clouds, which are fountains
Of goodness and love.
Great Father of glory,
Pure Father of light,
Thine angels adore Thee,
All veiling their sight;
All praise we would render;
O help us to see
'Tis only the splendor
Of light hideth Thee.
Song History & Meaning
Composer / Hymnodist: Walter Chalmers Smith
When we gaze upon the majesty of God, we are reminded that He exists beyond the limits of our human understanding—wrapped in unapproachable light yet deeply present in our lives. He works without haste or weariness, moving silently to accomplish His perfect will. As we sing these truth-filled words, we are invited to bow in awe, letting go of our need to control everything and instead trusting the wisdom of the Ancient of Days. In His glorious, unchanging light, our restless hearts finally find quiet peace.
📖 Related Scripture Passages:
- 1 Timothy 1:17: “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”
- Daniel 7:9: “I saw until thrones were placed, and an Ancient of Days sat. His clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool. His throne was fiery flames, and its wheels burning fire.”
- 1 Timothy 6:16: “who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen, nor can see; to whom be honor and eternal power. Amen.”