Hans Adolph Brorson (1694–1764) was a Danish Pietist clergyman and hymn writer, known as one of the three great Danish hymn writers. His hymns are celebrated for their theological depth and emotional resonance, and his work introduced the German Pietist hymn tradition to Danish hymnody.
Early life and career
Background: Brorson was born on June 20, 1694, in the vicarage at Randerup, Denmark, into a clerical family.
Education: He attended Ribe Cathedral School and studied theology at the University of Copenhagen from 1712 to 1716. After a period as a private tutor, he was ordained in 1721.
Pietism: While serving as a tutor, Brorson was introduced to Lutheran Pietism and remained a lifelong adherent. This spiritual movement, which emphasized personal devotion and inner piety, deeply influenced his hymn writing.
Major works
Hymn publications: Brorson began publishing hymns in 1732. His most important work, Troens rare klenodie ("The Rare Jewel of the Faith"), was published in 1739.
Troens rare klenodie: This collection contained 82 of his original hymns, along with many translations of German Pietist hymns. It was highly popular, going through seven editions during his lifetime.
Svanesang: A second collection of hymns, Svanesang ("Swan Song"), was published posthumously in 1765.
Impact: Brorson's hymns, particularly his Christmas carols, are some of the most beloved in Scandinavia.
Later career and personal life
Appointments: After serving as a pastor and deacon in southern Jutland, Brorson was appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Ribe in 1741, a position he held for the rest of his life.
Personal struggles: Despite his public success, Brorson endured private sorrows, including the early death of his first wife and a son who was afflicted with a mental illness. He often expressed resignation and faith in the face of these challenges, which is reflected in his writing.
Death: Brorson died in Ribe on June 3, 1764, and was buried in Ribe Cathedral.