The Author
Scripture Theme: Psalm 23 (AKJV 1611)
Written1868
Sir Henry Williams Baker (1821–1877) was an English Anglican priest and hymn writer who served as Vicar of Monkland, Herefordshire, for over thirty years. A man of deep devotion and pastoral care, he is best remembered as the editor of the influential Anglican hymnal Hymns Ancient and Modern, which shaped congregational worship throughout the English-speaking world. His finest literary achievement is The King of Love My Shepherd Is, written in 1868. It is traditionally said that the third verse of this hymn was among the final words he recited on his deathbed.
The Tune
St. Denio
DOMINUS REGIT ME was composed by John Bacchus Dykes (1823–1876), the distinguished English Anglican priest, musician, and composer of more than 300 hymn tunes. He wrote this melody in 1868 specifically for Baker’s text. The tune takes its name from the opening words of Psalm 23 in the Latin Vulgate:
“Dominus regit me.”
(“The Lord is my Shepherd.”)
Its gentle, flowing melody beautifully reflects the peace, comfort, and assurance found in the Shepherd Psalm.
Background
Sir Henry Baker wrote this hymn as a poetic paraphrase and expansion of Psalm 23, drawing inspiration from the earlier metrical version by the Welsh churchman Edmund Prys (1544–1623). While remaining faithful to David’s Psalm, Baker enriches it with New Testament imagery, presenting Christ as the Good Shepherd who seeks the lost, feeds His flock, and leads His people to everlasting life. The hymn first appeared in Hymns Ancient and Modern (1868), of which Baker was the chief editor.
Scriptural Foundation
The hymn is based principally upon:
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:1 (AKJV 1611)
Other passages reflected throughout the hymn include:
- Psalm 23 – The Shepherd’s loving care and guidance.
- John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd.”
- Luke 15:4–7 – The Shepherd seeking the lost sheep.
- John 6:35 – Christ, the Bread of Life.
- Revelation 7:17 – The Lamb who shepherds His redeemed.
Significance of the Hymn
The King of Love My Shepherd Is is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful hymns ever written on Psalm 23. Combining the tenderness of David’s Shepherd Psalm with the fullness of Christ’s redeeming love, it has brought comfort and hope to generations of Christians. The serene tune DOMINUS REGIT ME perfectly complements Baker’s words, making the hymn a cherished part of Anglican worship and a favourite at Holy Communion, pastoral services, and funerals throughout the Christian world.