1 Forward! said the prophet,
Pointing to the sea,
March, ye royal people,
Through it fearlessly!
What though foes are gathering,
Darkening all the plain,
God’s right arm extended,
Shall their force restrain.

Refrain:
Roll back, rushing waters!
Stay thy waves, O sea!
That I may gain the blessèd land
My God has promised me.

2 What though broad before you
Spreads a tossing tide?
God is strong and mighty,
Waters to divide.
With my rod uplifted,
Forward see me go.
Back! ye hungry billows,
Let the people through. [Refrain]

3 March, God’s chosen people!
Over doubt and dread;
All that daunts shall vanish
Where ye fearless tread.
Only march on boldly,
Looking far away,
From the black sea­bottom,
To the breaking day. [Refrain]

4 Dread not threatening billows
Which like walls uprear,
Dread not hosts pursuing,
Armed with sword and spear.
Wherefore now faint-hearted?
Trust ye in your God!
Look on me, your leader,
With uplifted rod. [Refrain]

5 Soon shall all be gathered
Safe on yonder shore,
Foes who long have daunted,
Ye shall see no more:
Looking back, shall wonder
What ye had to fear;
Marvel how ye doubted
When your help was near. [Refrain]