O Sacred Head, Now Wounded

Salve caput cruentatum

Parts

Transpose

100%

About this hymn

Date: 1153 / 1830
Tune: Passion Chorale
Composer: Hans Leo Hassler
Key: C
Meter: 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6

Historical background

The English text comes through James W. Alexander’s translation of the medieval Passion tradition; the familiar tune began as a secular melody by Hans Leo Hassler and was later adapted for sacred use.

Theology & Scripture

The singer contemplates Christ’s suffering with penitence, gratitude, and trust in his saving death.

Ps 22:6-8 · Is 53:4-5 · Jn 10:14-15 · 10:27-28 · Heb 12:2

Musical background

Passion Chorale is presented in the documented public-domain setting named by the source score. This edition contains four-part SATB harmony in C.

Sources & rights

Verified for United States on 2026-10-12. Public domain — source score marking

Words: Bernard of Clairvaux, 1153. Translated by James W. Alexander, 1830. Music: 'Passion Chorale' or 'Herzlich Tut Mich Verlangen' Hans Leo Hassler, 1601. Adapted by J.S. Bach, 1729. Setting: Johann Sebastian Bach, 1729. copyright: public domain. This score is a part of the Open Hymnal Project, 2007 Revision.
Music source: The Episcopal Hymnal, 1916, Hymn 158.