The Story

The meaning of “it is well”

“It Is Well ” is a hymn written by Horatio Spafford in 1873. Spafford was a successful lawyer, businessman, and devout Christian who lived in Chicago in the late 19th century. However, his life was marked by tragedy and loss, including the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed much of his real estate holdings, and the death of his only son shortly thereafter. Despite these setbacks, Spafford remained committed to his faith and continued to work tirelessly to help others.

In 1873, Horatio decided to take his family on a trip to Europe, hoping that the change of scenery would lift their spirits. Horatio was delayed because of business, so he sent his family ahead: his wife, Anna, and their four daughters. Anna and their four daughters boarded a ship and set sail for Europe. However, tragedy struck once again when the ship collided with another ship in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and sank, killing 226 passengers, including Horatio's four daughters.

Receiving Anna’s tragic message, Horatio set off at once to be reunited with his wife. During his voyage, the captain summoned Horatio to the bridge of the vessel. Pointing to his charts, he explained that they were then passing over the very spot where the ship had sunk, and where his daughters had died. It is said that Horatio returned to his cabin and wrote the hymn “It Is Well” there and then.

The hymn, which speaks of finding peace amid suffering and loss, has resonated with millions of people around the world for over a century. It is a reminder that when we face deep sorrow, we have a choice; we can let the grief consume us, or allow it to be a part of our journey that fuels us to continue being a light in this unpredictable world.