Did the literature of Early Medieval Hymns encourage Christians to exercise political leadership? According to Wikipedia, “Medieval music encompasses the sacred and secular music of Western Europe during the Middle Ages, from approximately the 6th to 15th centuries.” Back then music was important and hymns were some common music. Many hymns were focuses on God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Trinity, Mary, and John the Baptist. In the past week my teacher has been reading me hymns. One of these is called “Hymn to the Archangel Michael”.

Thee the Father’s power and splendor,
Jesus, thee we praise in song,
Bless thy name, O Shepherd tender,
Joining with the angel throng.

‘Mid the myriad host before thee,
Ranged along the radiant sky,
Michael holds the cross of glory,
Our salvation’s hope, on high.

By that sign he drives in terror
Satan and his godless powers,
All the rebel ranks of error,
Headlong from the heavenly towers.

Blessed Michael, be our leader,
In our war on sin and pride;
Be with Christ our interceder,
That the crown be not denied.

Glory to the Father ever,
Glory to the sole-born Son,
Glory to the Spirit; never
Cease the song while ages run.

Another one is “Hymn for the Apostles”.

Let all the world exult in song,
Let praises through the heavens ring,
Let earth and skies the hymn prolong,
The great apostles’ glory sing.

Ye judges of the centuries,
And beacons of the world, we dare
Appeal to you on bended knees,
Oh, heed and hear our suppliant prayer.

O ye, whose word may close or ope
The sacred temple of the Lord,
Restore our souls with heavenly hope,
And break the chain of sin abhorred.

Both life and death your will obey,
At your command all evils fly;
From our frail hearts take guilt away,
And frame our lives with love on high.

So when at last the Christ shall come
To judge the world, our deeds may be
Worthy to make his heaven our home,
Co-heirs with you eternally.

Unto the Father glory be,
And equal glory to the Son,
The same, O Paraclete to thee,
One God, while endless ages run.

Did the literature of Early Medieval Hymns encourage Christians to exercise political leadership? Well the answer is no, because the hymns had nothing to do with politics. They were about praising different people.