Religion Vain Without Love

Verse 1

Had I the tongues of Greeks and Jews, And nobler speech than angels use, If love be absent, I am found, Like tinkling brass, an empty sound.

Verse 2

Were I inspired to preach and tell All that is done in heaven and hell; Or could my faith the world remove, Still I am nothing without love.

Verse 3

Should I distribute all my store To feed the bowels of the poor; Or give my body to the flame, To gain a martyr's glorious name,--

Verse 4

If love to God, and love to men Be absent, all my hopes are vain; Nor tongues, nor gifts, nor fiery zeal The work of love can e'er fulfil.