When I survey the wondrous cross
Words by Isaac Watts (1674-1748), who was a non-conformist preacher and theologian; he had a particular interest in re-interpreting the Psalms using Christian language. He wrote a great many hymns, poems and religious works. His poem Against idleness and mischief was parodied by Lewis Carroll as How doth the little crocodile.
Charles Wesley is reported to have said he would give up all his hymns to have written When I survey, which remains the definitive Good Friday hymn for many.
The tune is from Edward Miller (1731-1807), who played the flute and piano, and was a music teacher as well as composer of sacred and secular works. He adapted the tune Rockingham, original composer unknown, as a hymn tune.