Traditional Hymns
A few of the traditional hymns featured on this website, including old favourites 'What a Friend We Have in Jesus' and 'The Old Rugged Cross'.
In particular, we look at some of the common hymns sung at western style weddings in Japan.
Why hymn?
(Because we say 'A-men' and not 'A-women'?)
The word hymn comes from the Middle English word imne, Old French ymne, Latin hymnus and Greek humnos. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary describes it as a song of praise to God, to a saint or to a nation, although in reality many hymns are just poems set to music about ourselves. (And if you're interested; the origin of Amen)
Of old, hymns were mainly the chanting of a Psalm, whereas today the definition is more loose and often synonymous with carol, gospel song, cantata, anthem, oratorio or motet. It might even be viewed as a folk song.
Therapeutic
Singing makes us feel good and that's why we sing; whether it's a hymn, pop song, rap, opera, or whatever turns us on. Singing helps us feel young and energetic, even if we're not very proficient. Singing helps relieve tension. Tip: If you think you might start crying and feel embarrassed at a wedding or funeral, make sure you join in that opening hymn. Singing with an appropriate amount of gusto really is therapeutic!
Communal
Guests at a wedding are not an audience; communal hymn singing makes people participants. After all, this is not the wedding of the choristers or celebrant; it is the wedding of the couple, their families and friends.
Hymn singing is a concerted exercise. As in many countries, staff working in Japanese companies traditionally start the day with morning taiso exercise to music. Sadly, this custom is quickly disappearing. The increased use of mobile phones and email for socialising is rapidly replacing face-to-face contact. These modern practices fly in the face of traditional Japanese collectivism and the human herd instinct is not satisfied. Communal singing helps everybody get in tune with each other (metaphorically if not musically!)
Weddings in Japan
The hymn usually sung at the start of the western style wedding service in Japan is quite an interesting choice for a wedding, and probably chosen for the music rather than the words. The hymn is no. 312 What a Friend we have in Jesus.
The other, almost as popular, choice is no. 430 When There's Love at Home.
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