ADON OLAM – ETERNAL LORD

The hymn “Adon Olam” has been part of Jewish liturgy since the 15th Century. Traditionally its sung
at the end of the Shabbat Service. The poem/lyrics have been attributed to Solomon ibn Gabirol
(1021-1058) or Hai Gaon (939–1038) or to the 1st Century Talmudic sage Yohanan ben Zakkai.

Eternal master, who reigned supreme - Adon 'olam, 'asher malakh,

Before all of creation was drawn - b'ṭerem kol yeṣir niv'ra

When it was finished according to his will, - L'et na'asa v'ḥefṣo kol,
Then "King" his name was proclaimed to be - Azai melekh sh'mo niqra

When this our world shall be no more, - V'aḥarey kikh'lot hakol

In majesty he still shall reign, - L'vado yimlokh nora

And he was, and he is, - V'hu hayah v'hu hoveh

And he will be in glory. - V'hu yih'yeh b'tif'arah

Alone is he, there is no second, - V'hu 'eḥad v'eyn sheyni

Without division or ally; - L'ham'shil lo l'haḥbirah

Without beginning, without end, - B'li reyshiyt b'li taḥ'liyt

To him is the power and sovereignty - V'lo ha'oz v'hammis'rah

He is my God, my living redeemer - V'hu 'Eli v'ḥay go'ali

Rock of my affliction in time of trouble - v'ṣur ḥevli b'eit ṣarah

He is my banner and refuge - V'hu nissi 'umanos li

Filling my cup the day I call - m'nat kosi b'yom 'eqra

Into his hand I commit my spirit - B'yado af'qid ruḥi

When I sleep, and I awake - b'et 'iyyshan v'a'ira

And with my spirit, my body - v'im ruḥi g'viyyati

The Lord is with me, I will not fear - Adonai li v'lo 'ira