The phrase "ancient hymn" refers to a very old religious song or poem that has been sung or recited for a long time, often passed down through generations. Full definition
He shares in ancient hymns that weak men like himself have used for generations. (religion-online.org)
It bids us plunge into the depths of Christianity's harrowing sublimity — into, that is, our ossuaries encrusted with bone, our catacombs whose chambers ancient hymns once filled. (firstthings.com)
Pride runs rampant in my mind, and I find a prayer for humility centered around this ancient hymn slows me down enough to open myself to God's steadfast transformation. (relevantmagazine.com)