The Strife Is ___ The Battle Done Old Hymn Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 14, 2025

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Unlocking the Mystery: "The Strife Is ___, The Battle Done" – A Deep Dive into the Old Hymn Crossword Clue

The crossword clue "The strife is ___, the battle done" is a common one, often appearing in various puzzles, from easy to expert level. While the answer may seem immediately obvious to some, a deeper exploration into the hymn lyrics and their historical context reveals a richness and complexity that deserves attention. This article will not only provide the answer but also explore the nuances of the clue, the hymns it potentially references, and the broader themes of faith, struggle, and triumph that they embody.

Deciphering the Clue: Context is Key

The clue itself, "The strife is ___, the battle done," is designed to be cryptic yet evocative. It relies on the solver's familiarity with religious hymns and their common themes. The phrase hints at a state of completion, a resolution to conflict or struggle. The "battle done" suggests a victorious conclusion, a sense of peace achieved after overcoming adversity. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for the missing word.

The Likely Answer and Its Hymn Connections

The most likely and widely accepted answer to complete the crossword clue is "o'er." This archaic word, meaning "over," perfectly fits the grammatical structure and thematic context. The complete phrase, "The strife is o'er, the battle done," is a frequently recurring line in several well-known Christian hymns.

While pinning down one specific hymn is challenging due to variations in lyric phrasing across different hymnals and versions, several strong contenders emerge:

• "The Strife Is O'er, The Battle Done" (Often attributed to Joseph Addison): While its origins are debated, this title is commonly associated with the lyric and its use in various hymns. This hymn focuses on the triumph of Christ over death and sin, symbolizing spiritual victory for the believer. The sense of peace and resolution after a spiritual battle perfectly aligns with the crossword clue's intention.

• Hymns with similar phrasing: Many hymns allude to a similar theme of overcoming spiritual conflict. Even though they might not use the exact phrase, the general sentiment matches the crossword clue's implied meaning. These hymns often invoke imagery of warfare, highlighting the struggle against sin, temptation, and worldly distractions, ultimately culminating in victory and peace through faith.

Theological and Historical Context

The phrase "The strife is o'er, the battle done" resonates deeply within Christian theology. It embodies the central message of redemption, the overcoming of sin and death through the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The "strife" represents the spiritual struggle faced by humanity, while the "battle done" signifies the ultimate victory won through faith in Christ.

The image of a "battle" is a common metaphor used in religious contexts to portray the ongoing conflict between good and evil, faith and doubt, light and darkness. This imagery finds its roots in both the Old Testament (where God's people frequently faced physical and spiritual battles) and the New Testament (where the struggle against sin is presented as a spiritual warfare).

The hymn's historical context, while difficult to definitively pinpoint for all variations, adds another layer of meaning. Many hymns with this theme originated during times of religious persecution, social upheaval, or personal struggles, providing comfort and hope to believers. The act of singing these hymns would have served as a powerful expression of faith and resilience during challenging times.

Beyond the Crossword: Exploring the Broader Themes

The crossword clue's simplicity belies the profound depth of the theological and emotional meanings embedded within the phrase "The strife is o'er, the battle done." The themes explored go far beyond simple religious dogma; they touch upon universal human experiences:

• The Nature of Struggle: The human condition is inherently marked by conflict, both internal and external. We face challenges, setbacks, and temptations throughout our lives. The hymn acknowledges this reality without minimizing its intensity.

• The Pursuit of Peace: The desire for peace, both internal and external, is a fundamental human aspiration. The hymn offers a path towards this peace, suggesting that it is achieved not through worldly means, but through spiritual connection and faith.

• The Power of Hope: Even in the face of adversity, hope is a potent force. The hymn embodies this hope, affirming the ultimate triumph of good over evil, faith over doubt.

• The Significance of Perseverance: The imagery of a "battle" suggests the importance of perseverance. Victory is not easily achieved; it requires effort, endurance, and unwavering faith.

• The Concept of Redemption: The hymn's message is one of redemption, the overcoming of past struggles and the attainment of a new, transformed life. This concept of a fresh start and the possibility of renewal resonates deeply with human experiences of forgiveness, healing, and transformation.

Conclusion:

The crossword clue "The strife is ___, the battle done" is much more than a simple word puzzle. It serves as a window into the rich tapestry of Christian hymnody, exploring timeless themes of struggle, victory, and hope. While the answer "o'er" provides the solution to the puzzle, the deeper exploration reveals the enduring relevance and power of these spiritual messages in our modern world. The hymns echoing this phrase continue to provide comfort, inspiration, and a reminder of the enduring power of faith in the face of adversity. The lasting impact of these hymns highlights not only their lyrical beauty but also their profound theological significance and their ability to connect with the deepest human yearnings for peace and redemption.