“Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” is one of Johann Sebastian Bach’s most beloved melodies, originally composed as part of his cantata Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben (BWV 147). Its flowing, lyrical quality makes it a beautiful piece to play on guitar, and with careful phrasing and dynamics, you can bring out its rich, expressive depth.
In this lesson, you’ll learn a fingerpicking arrangement of this timeless classic, complete with guitar tabs. While this piece is best suited for intermediate to advanced players, don’t be intimidated—taking it step by step will make the journey rewarding.
Grab your guitar, and let’s dive in!
Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring guitar tabs
This piece is written in a 9/8 time signature, meaning that 9 eighth notes make up each measure. The numbers next to some notes on the top staff indicate which fingers to use on the fretting hand. If needed, you can refer to this simple guide to understanding music symbols.
By the way, you can get the PDF of this piece below.
Get full access as a Pro Member!
Join now or
log in to unlock this lesson and more!
Start Playing Better, Faster
with Pro Membership! ✨
Get the guidance, tools, and support that keep your progress on track:
🏁 Always know what to practice next. Access the full Guitar Learning Roadmap with lessons in sequence.
🎼 Play songs with confidence. Step-by-step lessons of popular, classical pieces and other styles.
📙 Save time and frustration. Clear PDFs and ebooks that save time so you can focus on playing.
🎟️ Your membership pays for itself. 2 free downloads every month (a $240+ yearly value).
🎁 Never overpay again. 50% off all charts, tracks, and posters — up to 75% off bundles.
🚫 Stay focused. Ad-free environment keeps you in the zone.
💬 Get help when you need it. Direct member support to keep you on track.
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring lyrics
Lyrics by Martin Janus, translation by Robert Seymour Bridges
Verse 1:
Jesus, joy of our desiring,
holy wisdom, love most bright;
drawn by thee, our souls aspiring
soar to uncreated light.
Word of God, our flesh that fashioned,
with the fire of life impassioned,
striving still to truth unknown,
soaring, dying round thy throne.
Verse 2:
Through the way where hope is guiding,
hark, what peaceful music rings;
where the flock, in thee confiding,
drink of joy from deathless springs.
Theirs is beauty’s fairest pleasure;
theirs is wisdom’s holiest treasure.
Thou dost ever lead thine own
in the love of joys unknown.
To learn other popular pieces by Bach, check out Air, Bourrée in E minor or Cello Suite No. 1 (Prelude).
📘 Get the free guitar practice guide here!
Want to learn more songs? Check out the sheet music with guitar tabs resource on this site.
All the best,
JG Music Lessons
References:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. wikipedia.org
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. hymnary.org
Explore Songs with Guitar Tabs
Start Playing Better, Faster
with Pro Membership! ✨
Get the guidance, tools, and support that keep your progress on track:
🏁 Always know what to practice next. Access the full Guitar Learning Roadmap with lessons in sequence.
🎼 Play songs with confidence. Step-by-step lessons of popular, classical pieces and other styles.
📙 Save time and frustration. Clear PDFs and ebooks that save time so you can focus on playing.
🎟️ Your membership pays for itself. 2 free downloads every month (a $240+ yearly value).
🎁 Never overpay again. 50% off all charts, tracks, and posters — up to 75% off bundles.
🚫 Stay focused. Ad-free environment keeps you in the zone.
💬 Get help when you need it. Direct member support to keep you on track.