An Irish Blessing (May the road rise to meet you)

This hymn is an English translation of a old Irish blessing that starts "Go n-éirí an bóthar leat" - which is in turn most likely based on a phrase from the Bible (Numbers 6:22-27).

The translator is unknown - and the translation is literal rather than based on the underlying meaning of the words: the first line in the original text is about wishing a successful journey through life.

There are many, many musical settings of the text, which can also be used as a prayer.

Downloads

PowerPoint slides
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PowerPoint
slides

Examples

Choir with piano:

Contemporary harmony arrangement with backing band:

Lyrics

May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
May the rain fall softly on your fields,
And until we meet again,
May you keep safe in the gentle, loving arms of God.