In 1922, Dr. A.V. Laferla, Director of Primary Schools, obtained possession of a piece of music composed by Dr. R. Samut. He handed it to Dun Karm, a well-known priest and poet, to write the lyrics for it as a school hymn. As Dun Karm began writing, he suddenly conceived the idea of writing a hymn in the form of a prayer to the Almighty.
Dun Karm, who was later to become Malta's National Poet, wanted to bridge the gap existing between the political parties and to unite all with the strong ties of religion and patriotism. L-INNU MALTI was first played on the 3rd February 1923. In 1945 it was declared to be the official Anthem of Malta.
Aghti, kbir Alla, id-dehen lil min jahkimha,
Rodd il-hniena lis-sid, sahha 'l-haddiem:
Seddaq il-ghaqda fil-Maltin u s-sliem.
(
Guard her, O Lord, as ever Thou hast guarded!
This Motherland so dear whose name we bear!
Keep her in mind, whom Thou hast made so fair!
May he who rules, for wisdom be regarded!
In master mercy, strength in man increase!
Confirm us all, in unity and peace!)
(Source: Malta Information, Dept of Information, July 1994)
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