His Voice as the Sound

As a young man, Joseph Swain enjoyed plays, dancing, and other lively entertainment in 18th-century London. He used his gift for language to write songs for the enjoyment of himself and his friends. In his 20s, however, he had an experience where he felt “the presence of God in [his] soul.” Swain was baptized and became a Baptist minister, now using his writing skills to compose religious poetry and hymn texts.

“His Voice as the Sound” takes its text from portions of Swain’s poem “A Description of Christ.” Blending poetic phrases from the Song of Solomon, Psalms, Isaiah, and the book of Revelation, Swain composed an elegant description of the Savior—the sound of His voice, the warmth of His smile, and the beauty of His righteousness.

Parts of the poem’s original nine stanzas have been used in many hymn texts, including in “Redeemer of Israel” and “My Song in the Night.” When Swain’s text traveled across the Atlantic, it was paired with the American folk tune samanthra. Together, the expressive words and melody impart feelings of reverent adoration.

Find lyrics, sheet music, and recordings for His Voice as the Sound

Scriptures

Principles

All things created by God are evidence of His love for His children.
Jesus Christ will bring mercy, comfort, and protection to all who have faith in Him.
Living the gospel of Jesus Christ prepares us to return to the glorious presence of God.

Questions to Ponder

When have you felt the Savior’s comforting influence?
How have you heard the voice of the Savior in your life?
What difference can it make to recognize that the Creator of the heavens and the earth loves you personally?

Related Gospel Study Guides

From Topics and Questions, Gospel Library:

Activities for Families

Talk about how the music and words work together. This hymn associates Jesus Christ with words like “sweet,” “rejoice,” “purity,” “bright,” “light,” “smile,” and “love.” But the music is in a minor key, which creates feelings of reverence and awe. Discuss how the words of praise and the feeling of reverence work together to help us know the Savior better.
Draw pictures inspired by the hymn. This hymn is rich in imagery. Play the hymn and invite family members to draw some of its images, such as a dulcimer, a fountain watering a garden, Jesus Christ smiling, heaven, the morning sun rising, and 10,000 angels. Then sing the hymn together while admiring everyone’s artwork.