The Story Behind the Hymn, “Rock of Ages”
“Rock of Ages” is a Christian hymn written by Augustus M. Toplady, with music by Thomas Hastings. This very personal hymn uses pronouns such as
I
and
me
rather than
we
and
our,
focusing on individual salvation.
Legend says that Toplady wrote the hymn during a stormy incident in England. While traveling along the gorge in Burrington Combe, he was caught in a fierce storm and took shelter in a gap in the gorge, where he wrote the original lyrics. Some disagree on whether the event actually occurred; nevertheless, the rock is now marked with a plaque that reads: “Rock of Ages: This rock derives its name from the well known hymn written about 1762 by the Rev A M Toplady who was inspired whilst sheltering in this cleft during a storm.”
The 1950 Latter-day Saint hymnal included a version of the hymn for women’s voices only, but in the 1985 hymnal it was changed to the standard four-part harmony for congregational use.
The choir has performed “Rock of Ages” for years, and you can find recordings on the albums Rock of Ages: 30 Great Hymns and The Majesty of America .
Legend says that Toplady wrote the hymn during a stormy incident in England. While traveling along the gorge in Burrington Combe, he was caught in a fierce storm and took shelter in a gap in the gorge, where he wrote the original lyrics. Some disagree on whether the event actually occurred; nevertheless, the rock is now marked with a plaque that reads: “Rock of Ages: This rock derives its name from the well known hymn written about 1762 by the Rev A M Toplady who was inspired whilst sheltering in this cleft during a storm.”
The 1950 Latter-day Saint hymnal included a version of the hymn for women’s voices only, but in the 1985 hymnal it was changed to the standard four-part harmony for congregational use.
The choir has performed “Rock of Ages” for years, and you can find recordings on the albums Rock of Ages: 30 Great Hymns and The Majesty of America .