Ihr habt nut Traurigkeit

Johannes Brahms' 'Ihr habt nun Traurigkeit' is a poignant piece that delves into themes of sorrow, comfort, and eventual joy. The lyrics are drawn from various biblical passages, which Brahms masterfully weaves together to create a narrative of emotional transition. The opening lines, 'Ihr habt nun Traurigkeit; aber ich will euch wieder sehen und euer Herz soll sich freuen und eure Freude soll niemand von euch nehmen,' are from John 16:22. This passage speaks directly to the human experience of grief and the promise of future joy, suggesting that sorrow is temporary and will be replaced by an enduring happiness that cannot be taken away.

The second stanza, 'Sehet mich an: Ich habe eine kleine Zeit Mühe und Arbeit gehabt, und habe grossen Trost gefunden,' is from Jesus Sirach 51:35. Here, the focus shifts to personal struggle and the solace found after enduring hardship. This line emphasizes the idea that comfort and peace are attainable even after periods of intense labor and suffering. Brahms uses this to remind listeners that their efforts and pains are not in vain; there is a profound comfort waiting on the other side.

Finally, the line 'Ich will euch trösten, wie einen seine Mutter tröstet,' from Isaiah 66:13, brings a deeply personal and intimate form of comfort into the narrative. The comparison to a mother's comfort is universally understood and evokes a sense of unconditional love and care. Brahms' choice of this passage underscores the nurturing aspect of divine comfort, making the overall message of the song one of hope and reassurance. Through these carefully selected biblical texts, Brahms offers a musical journey from sorrow to solace, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced grief and the healing that follows.