Es Kommt Ein Schiff Geladen Text Pdf

Willkommen! Are you planning a trip to Germany during the Christmas season? Perhaps you've already heard the gentle melody of "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" drifting from a Christmas market or a church choir. This beautiful and timeless Advent hymn is deeply woven into the fabric of German Christmas traditions. Understanding the text and its meaning will undoubtedly enrich your experience and connect you more deeply with the culture. Let's delve into this beloved carol!

What is "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen"?

"Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" translates to "A ship comes laden." It's a German Advent hymn, a song traditionally sung during the four weeks leading up to Christmas. While seemingly simple, the lyrics are rich in symbolism and offer a powerful message of hope, anticipation, and the coming of Christ. The hymn dates back to the 15th century, with the earliest known printed version appearing in 1599.

Why is it so popular?

The enduring popularity of "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" stems from several factors:

Its beautiful melody: The tune is simple yet moving, making it easy to sing and remember.
Its powerful message: The imagery of a ship laden with grace and divine gifts resonates deeply with the spirit of Advent.
Its historical significance: The hymn is deeply rooted in German tradition and has been sung for centuries, connecting generations.
Its accessibility: While rich in symbolism, the language is relatively straightforward, making it understandable for a wide audience.

Decoding the Lyrics: A Verse-by-Verse Exploration

Now, let's explore the lyrics of "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" verse by verse. We'll provide both the original German and a literal English translation, followed by an explanation of the meaning and symbolism behind each verse.

Verse 1

Es kommt ein Schiff geladen
Bis an sein höchsten Bord,
Trägt Gottes Sohn voll Gnaden,
Des Vaters ewigs Wort.

A ship comes laden
Right up to its highest board,
Carries God's Son full of grace,
The Father's eternal Word.

Meaning: This verse introduces the central metaphor of the hymn: a ship. This ship isn't carrying ordinary cargo; it's laden with the most precious cargo of all – the Son of God, Jesus Christ. The phrase "bis an sein höchsten Bord" (right up to its highest board) emphasizes the fullness and completeness of God's grace. Jesus is referred to as "des Vaters ewigs Wort" (the Father's eternal Word), highlighting his divine nature and role as the expression of God's will.

Verse 2

Das Schiff geht still im Triebe,
Trägt eine teure Last;
Das Segel ist die Liebe,
Der Heilge Geist der Mast.

The ship sails quietly,
Carries a precious load;
The sail is love,
The Holy Spirit the mast.

Meaning: This verse delves into the spiritual forces guiding the ship. The ship sails "still im Triebe" (quietly), suggesting a peaceful and gentle arrival of God's grace. "Das Segel ist die Liebe" (The sail is love) emphasizes that love is the driving force behind God's plan of salvation. "Der Heilge Geist der Mast" (The Holy Spirit the mast) signifies the Holy Spirit's role in guiding and supporting the ship, ensuring its safe arrival. The "teure Last" (precious load) refers to Jesus Christ, the savior of humankind.

Verse 3

Der Anker haft’ auf Erden,
Da ist das Schiff am Land;
Maria ist’s geworden,
Hat Gottes Sohn erkannt.

The anchor takes hold on Earth,
There the ship is on land;
Mary has become it,
Has recognized God's Son.

Meaning: This verse connects the ship to the Earth and, more specifically, to Mary. "Der Anker haft’ auf Erden" (The anchor takes hold on Earth) signifies the grounding of God's grace in the earthly realm through the incarnation of Jesus. "Maria ist’s geworden" (Mary has become it) is perhaps the most profound and symbolic line. It suggests that Mary, through her acceptance of God's will, embodies the ship, the vessel that carries Christ into the world. By recognizing God's Son, she plays a crucial role in the salvation story.

Verse 4

Nun sei uns willkommen,
Du edler Gast so wert,
Dein Nam’ ist hochgekommen
Auf Erden weit und breit.

Now be welcome to us,
You noble guest so worthy,
Your name has become exalted
On Earth far and wide.

Meaning: This verse is a direct welcome to Jesus, the "edler Gast so wert" (noble guest so worthy). It acknowledges the significance of his arrival and the impact he has had on the world. "Dein Nam’ ist hochgekommen / Auf Erden weit und breit" (Your name has become exalted / On Earth far and wide) recognizes the widespread recognition and reverence for Jesus' name and teachings.

Experiencing "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" in Germany

During Advent and Christmas in Germany, you're likely to encounter "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" in various settings:

Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte): You might hear choirs or instrumental groups performing the hymn at Christmas markets. Keep an ear out – it's a truly magical experience!
Church Services: "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" is a staple of Advent and Christmas church services. Attending a service offers a beautiful opportunity to experience the hymn in its traditional context.
Radio and Television: During the Christmas season, German radio and television stations often play versions of the hymn.
Home Gatherings: Many German families sing Christmas carols, including "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen," at home during Advent and on Christmas Eve.

Finding the "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen Text Pdf"

If you'd like to have the lyrics readily available, you can easily find "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen Text Pdf" online. A simple search engine query will yield numerous results, offering versions with both the original German text and English translations. Many websites also provide sheet music for those who wish to play or sing the hymn themselves. Websites of churches, and religious organisations are a great resource.

Beyond the Lyrics: Understanding the Deeper Meaning

While understanding the literal translation of "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" is helpful, it's important to grasp the deeper meaning behind the symbolism:

The Ship as a Metaphor: The ship represents the arrival of God's grace and salvation into the world. It's a vessel carrying the precious gift of Jesus Christ.
Advent and Anticipation: The hymn embodies the spirit of Advent – a time of waiting, preparation, and anticipation for the coming of Christ.
Hope and Redemption: The arrival of the ship signifies hope and redemption for humanity. It's a reminder of God's love and his promise of salvation.
Mary's Role: Mary's pivotal role as the mother of Jesus is emphasized, highlighting her importance in God's plan.

Tips for enjoying "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" on your trip:

Learn the first verse in German: Even knowing just the first verse will allow you to participate and connect more deeply when you hear it sung.
Attend a Christmas concert: Many churches and concert halls host Christmas concerts featuring traditional German carols, including "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen."
Purchase a German Christmas carol book: These books often include the lyrics and sheet music for popular carols, allowing you to sing along.
Reflect on the meaning: Take a moment to contemplate the message of hope and anticipation that the hymn conveys.

Conclusion

"Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" is more than just a Christmas carol; it's a powerful expression of faith, hope, and love. By understanding the lyrics and their deeper meaning, you can gain a richer appreciation for this timeless hymn and connect more meaningfully with the German Christmas tradition. So, as you wander through the twinkling lights of a German Christmas market or attend a peaceful Advent service, listen for the gentle melody of "Es kommt ein Schiff geladen" and let its message of hope fill your heart. Enjoy your trip!