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"A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" ("Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott") is a highly significant Christian hymn written by Martin Luther between 1527 and 1529. Often called the "Battle Hymn of the Reformation," it is based on themes from Psalm 46. The hymn expresses faith in God as an unassailable refuge and defender against evil, emphasizing reliance on Christ and God's Word rather than human strength. Luther composed the hymn during a period of challenges for early Protestants, including persecution and plague, making the lyrics a source of solace and encouragement for the Reformers. It played a vital role in Protestant worship and the spread of the Reformation, has been translated into many languages, and features a powerful melody often attributed to Luther. The first verse highlights the theme of God as a fortress: A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing; Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing. For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe; His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate, On earth is not his equal. Subsequent verses identify Christ as the victor over the "prince of darkness" and affirm the eternal nature of God's Kingdom. Psalms 46 God the Refuge of His People and Conqueror of the Nations To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A Song for Alamoth. 1God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. 2Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah 4There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. 5God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn. 6The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted. 7The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah 8Come, behold the works of the Lord, Who has made desolations in the earth. 9He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire. 10Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! 11The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah