"It Is Well with My Soul" is a Christian hymn written by Horatio Spafford, a successful Chicago lawyer, and composed by Philip Bliss, a prominent American composer, in 1876. The hymn is known for its poignant lyrics and profound backstory.
The inspiration for "It Is Well with My Soul" came from a series of tragic events in Horatio Spafford's life. In 1871, Spafford's four-year-old son died of scarlet fever, and later that year, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed much of Spafford's real estate investments. Despite these challenges, the Spafford family remained resilient and focused on their faith.
In 1873, Horatio Spafford planned a trip to Europe with his wife, Anna, and their four daughters. Due to some last-minute business issues, Spafford had to stay behind, but he sent his family ahead on the SS Ville du Havre. Tragically, the ship collided with another vessel and sank in the Atlantic Ocean. All four of Spafford's daughters perished in the accident.
Upon receiving the devastating news, Horatio Spafford sailed to join his grieving wife. As he crossed the same waters where his daughters had lost their lives, he found solace and inspiration to pen the lyrics of "It Is Well with My Soul." The hymn reflects a deep sense of peace and trust in God's plan, even in the midst of profound sorrow.
The opening lines of the hymn refer to a biblical image found in Zechariah 13:1, which speaks of a fountain for sin and uncleanness. The metaphorical "fountain filled with blood" in the hymn symbolizes the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice and the assurance of redemption. Despite the tragic circumstances that inspired its creation, "It Is Well with My Soul" has become a powerful and enduring anthem of faith and hope for many people around the world.