Forest and meadow are shimmering
In the beams of the evening sun;
The giant shadow of the mountain
Descends quietly into the valley.
The quiet breezes shiver
Like a greeting from the spirit realm:
What is this anxious sorrowing
That has befallen my bosom?
     I wish to make my way to shelter.
 
From the dark shore of the sea
There in the distant sinking horizon
Toward the beautiful East
The urging of my soul drove me.
I truly had much to battle
In forest and upon the floodwaters,
I often had to suppress
The glow of my own heart:
     I wish to make my way to shelter.
 
Oh City of God, you sublime city
That was promised me by my dream,
Through desert and through oceans
I travelled longingly after your image.
Where do your golden battlements
Tower into the red of dawn?
When shall I attain you,
When shall my distress end?
     I wish to make my way to shelter.
 
Already, solemnly and gently,
The publican with snow-white hair beckons to me,
In his black signboard there are
Three stars, bright and clear.
There under the green trees
He has made a bed for me;
I shall dream blissfully,
The angels keep watch:
     I wish to make my way to shelter.