808 Hear Hymn – Amazing Grace

The Cultural Hall Podcast

Title and Number: “Amazing Grace,” Number to be assigned in the upcoming LDS hymnbook.

First Line or Chorus: “Amazing grace! How sweet the sound / That saved a wretch like me!”

Historical Context:

“Amazing Grace,” one of the most recognized hymns globally, was penned by John Newton in 1772. Newton, a former slave trader who became an Anglican clergyman, wrote the hymn as a testimony to his own transformation and the redeeming power of God’s grace. The hymn reflects Newton’s deep repentance and gratitude for salvation, with lyrics capturing the essence of his journey from sin to redemption.

Purpose and Message:

The hymn’s purpose is to highlight the transformative power of grace and forgiveness. It speaks to the theme of personal redemption, offering hope and solace to those who feel lost or burdened by guilt. The melody associated with “Amazing Grace,” often set to “New Britain,” evokes a sense of peace and reassurance.

Controversies and Criticisms:

• Criticism of “Amazing Grace” in relation to John Newton’s life mainly revolves around his history as a slave trader before his conversion. Despite Newton’s eventual remorse and active role in the abolitionist movement, some critics highlight the paradox of a hymn on grace and redemption being authored by someone who was once complicit in such a dehumanizing trade. Critics argue that the legacy of his involvement in the transatlantic slave trade casts a shadow on the hymn, suggesting that it reflects a sense of guilt rather than genuine transformation.

However, defenders emphasize Newton’s later work, such as his collaboration with William Wilberforce to end the British slave trade, as evidence of his true repentance and reform. They argue that “Amazing Grace” serves as a testament to the power of God’s grace to transform even the most sinful lives, and that Newton’s life exemplifies the hymn’s message of redemption and change.

• Christian Community: The hymn’s vivid portrayal of human sinfulness, expressed in phrases like “saved a wretch like me,” has sparked some debate. Some critics argue that this language is too harsh, while others believe it accurately conveys the depth of repentance.
• LDS Community: Although widely accepted and loved within the Christian world, “Amazing Grace” hasn’t historically been included in LDS hymnbooks. This absence has been a topic of discussion, with some suggesting that its exclusion might be due to doctrinal nuances or differing interpretations of grace. However, its anticipated inclusion in the upcoming LDS hymnbook and its performance in the recent LDS General Conference signify a shift in its reception within the LDS Church.

• Previous Hymnbook Inclusions: “Amazing Grace” has not been included in previous LDS hymnbooks.
• Inclusion in Emma Smith’s Original Hymnbook: It was not included in the original hymnbook compiled by Emma Smith.
• Origin: Written by John Newton, a former slave trader turned abolitionist, in 1772. The melody most commonly associated with it, “New Britain,” was likely derived from an American folk tune.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

• Commonality Outside LDS Culture: Extremely popular in Christian communities worldwide, “Amazing Grace” is sung across various denominations and has been covered by numerous artists in both sacred and secular contexts.
• Central Theme and Doctrine: The hymn emphasizes redemption and God’s grace, portraying the transformative power of divine forgiveness and mercy.
• Hymn Selection Criteria:
  • Increase Faith in Jesus Christ: Directly emphasizes the grace of Christ that redeems individuals.
  • Teach Core Doctrine: Highlights the theme of redemption and the availability of God’s grace to all.
  • Invite Joyful Singing: Its melody is uplifting, and the lyrics resonate deeply with people.
  • Comfort and Inspire: Offers hope and assurance to those who feel lost or burdened.
  • Unify the Saints: Well-known across Christian denominations, fostering a sense of unity.

Inclusion Rationale

• Speculated Inclusion Reasons: Despite not being in previous editions, “Amazing Grace” has a global reputation for emphasizing themes of forgiveness and redemption, aligning well with LDS teachings.

Impact and Reception

• Initial Reactions: Its anticipated inclusion has sparked positive reactions, as evidenced by its historic performance at the recent LDS General Conference, marking its debut in this setting.

Musical Setting

The tune most commonly associated with “Amazing Grace” is known as “New Britain.” Its origins, like many hymn tunes, are somewhat obscure and interwoven with the folk music traditions of early America.

Origin and Evolution:

• Early Variations: The melody of “New Britain” first appeared in print in the early 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the British Isles, likely Scotland or England, and was brought to America where it was adapted and evolved through oral tradition.
• Appalachian Influence: The melody gained popularity in the Appalachian region of the United States, where it was preserved and shaped within the musical traditions of the area. This region’s rich musical heritage, characterized by a blend of European and African musical elements, played a significant role in shaping the version of the tune known today.
• First Association with “Amazing Grace”: The tune was first paired with John Newton’s text in William Walker’s shape-note tune book, “Southern Harmony,” published in 1835. This pairing was serendipitous but proved to be remarkably enduring. The format of the shape-note singing, which was designed to facilitate communal singing and teaching, helped spread “New Britain” widely across the United States.

Characteristics of the Tune:

• Musical Structure: “New Britain” is composed in a simple and repetitive structure, making it easy to learn and sing. Its pentatonic scale contributes to its hauntingly beautiful and evocative quality, which complements the profound themes of redemption and forgiveness in Newton’s lyrics.
• Emotional Impact: The tune’s ability to evoke deep emotional responses has made “Amazing Grace” a popular choice not only in religious settings but also in secular and ceremonial contexts, such as memorials and public gatherings.

The enduring popularity of “New Britain” with Newton’s text has allowed “Amazing Grace” to become a symbol of solace and spiritual healing, transcending its origins to become one of the most iconic hymns in American musical and cultural history.

Additional Notes

• Interesting Facts: John Newton’s life, which inspired the hymn, reflects a profound transformation from his former life to becoming an abolitionist.

Multimedia Elements

• Performances: Recordings from the General Conference performance can be found in the LDS Gospel Library.
• Visuals: Images of John Newton, historical representations of the hymn’s evolution, and its various adaptations across cultures can provide context.

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