Hungary
Himnusz
Hymn
1823
1844
Ferenc Kolcsey
Ferenc Erkel
✝ God / Faith 🏺 Ancestors / Heritage 💪 Resilience |
Context
Written by Ferenc Kolcsey in 1823, the anthem is a prayer to God asking for blessings on the Hungarian people. The music was composed by Ferenc Erkel in 1844. It is often called 'Himnusz' and reflects the sorrow and resilience of Hungarian history.
Lyrics
Isten, áldd meg a magyart
Jó kedvvel, bőséggel,
Nyújts feléje védő kart,
Ha küzd ellenséggel;
Bal sors akit régen tép,
Hozz rá víg esztendőt,
Megbůnhődte már e nép
A múltat s jövendőt!
Translations are non-official and intended to convey meaning, not replace originals
Interesting facts
- • One of the most somber national anthems in the world, reflecting centuries of Hungarian suffering
- • The last line suggests Hungarians have already atoned for their sins, an unusual sentiment for a national anthem
- • January 22, when the poem was completed, is celebrated as the Day of Hungarian Culture