Paul Gerhardt

Paul Gerhardt (1607–1676) was a German Lutheran pastor, theologian, and one of Germany's greatest hymn writers, renowned for over 120 hymns including those featured in Bach's Passions and Christmas Oratorio. Born near Wittenberg, he endured the Thirty Years' War, personal tragedies like the deaths of his wife and four children, and dismissal from his Berlin parish in 1666 for refusing to compromise his Lutheran beliefs. His poetry, influenced by his trials, gained fame through collaboration with Johann Crüger and remains in modern hymnals.