297. Thou who Thyself didst sanctify
George Rawson, 1807-89
An appropriate hymn for use in ordination to the Christian ministry or dedication to other forms of Christian service.
George Rawson, an English Congregational layman, was born at Leeds where he practiced law many years. He had a considerable knowledge of music and was a gifted hymn writer. He rendered valuable assistance to his own denomination as well as to the Baptists in the preparation of hymn books for use in the church. A shy, retiring man, of sincere piety, he at first published his hymns, a considerable collection, anonymously, but later had to acknowledge his identity. About 50 of his hymns are still in use.
(The name is misspelled “Dawson” in the Hymnary.)
MUSIC. DUNDEE (or FRENCH) is one of the twelve Common Tunes appearing in the Scottish Psalter, The CL Psalms of David, &, Edinburgh, 1615, where it is named “French Tune.” Its first appearance in an English Psalter is in Ravencroft’s Whole Book of Psalms, 1621, where it is called “Dundy.” It is one of the best known of the psalm tunes and its smooth, flowing melody has enjoyed great popularity.
For comments on the Scottish Psalter see [Hymn 575].