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"Jesus schläft, was soll ich hoffen?" (Jesus sleeps, what should I hope for?), BWV 81, is a sacred cantata composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Here are some interesting facts about this particular piece:

1. Composition Date: Bach composed "Jesus schläft, was soll ich hoffen?" in Weimar in 1714 during his tenure as the Konzertmeister (director of music) at the Weimar court.

2. Liturgical Context: The cantata was written for the 4th Sunday after Epiphany, and it is part of Bach's larger body of work dedicated to liturgical music.

3. Biblical Inspiration: The text of the cantata is based on the Gospel of Mark, specifically the account of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:35–41). The librettist, Salomon Franck, draws parallels between the storm-tossed boat and the troubled soul seeking solace in Christ.

4. Structure: "Jesus schläft, was soll ich hoffen?" is structured in the typical format of a Bach cantata, consisting of opening and closing choruses, arias, and recitatives. The music masterfully reflects the emotional depth of the text.

5. Symbolism in Music: Bach employs musical symbolism to represent the storm and the calm that follows. The turbulence of the storm is vividly depicted in the orchestration, while the subsequent tranquility is conveyed through more serene and flowing musical passages.

6. Expression of Faith: Like many of Bach's works, this cantata is not only a musical composition but also a profound expression of faith. The text explores themes of trust and hope in God's providence even in the midst of life's storms.

7. Surviving Manuscripts: The original manuscript of BWV 81 is preserved, and it provides valuable insights into Bach's notational practices and stylistic preferences.

"Jesus schläft, was soll ich hoffen?" stands as a testament to Bach's ability to weave together profound theological themes with musical ingenuity, creating a work that continues to captivate audiences with its spiritual depth and artistic brilliance.