“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Hank Williams’ rendition of “I Dreamed That the Great Judgment Morning” is a haunting journey into the depths of spiritual reflection. Originally penned as a poem titled “A Dream” by Bertram H. Shadduck in 1892, the piece was later set to music by Charles D. Tillman in 1893, becoming the hymn we recognize today.
The song paints a vivid picture of the final judgment, where individuals from all walks of life—rich and poor, moral and immoral—stand before the divine throne. Its lyrics serve as a poignant reminder of mortality and the consequences of one’s actions, urging listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey.
Hank Williams’ soulful interpretation amplifies this message, his emotive delivery resonating deeply with audiences and breathing new life into the classic hymn. His version stands as a testament to the enduring power of gospel music to inspire introspection and convey profound truths.
For those interested in experiencing this evocative performance, here’s Hank Williams’ rendition of “I Dreamed That the Great Judgment Morning”:
Video
Lyrics
It’s one of the first songs I think I ever learned
My grandmother taught me this song
Called “The great judgement morning”
I dreamed that the great judgement morning
Had dawned and the trumpet had blown
I dreamed that the nations had gathered
To judgement before the white throne
From the throne came a bright shining angel
And stood on the land and the sea
And swore with her hand raised to heaven
That time was no longer to be
And oh, what weeping and wailing
As the lost were told of their fate
They cried for the rocks and the mountains
They prayed, but their prayers were too late
The rich man was there, but his money
Had melted and vanished away
A pauper stood there in the judgment
His debts were too many to pay
The great man was there, but his greatness
When death came, was left far behind
The angel that opened the records
No trace of his greatness could find
The widow stood there and the orphans
God heard and remembered their cries
No sorrow in heaven forever
God wiped all the tears from their eyes
The gambler was there, and the drunkard
And they who had sold them the drink
With people who gave them the license
Together in hell they did sink
And oh, what weeping and wailing
As the lost were told of their fate
They cried for the rocks and the mountains
They prayed, but their prayers were too late
The mortal man to the judgment
But self-righteousness would not do
All the men who had crucified Jesus
Had passed off as mortal men, too
And the souls that had put off salvation
“Not tonight, I’ll get saved by and by
No time now to think of religion”
But at last they’d found time to die
And oh, what weeping and wailing
As the lost were told of their fate
They cried for the rocks and the mountains
And they prayed, but their prayers were too late