The cantata 'Du Hirte Israel, höre, BWV 104' premiered in St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, under the direction of Johann Sebastian Bach, who served as Kantor from 1723 until his death in 1750. Composed for the Fourth Sunday after Easter, the cantata’s theme revolves around the biblical metaphor of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, a subject that resonated deeply within the context of Lutheran worship. It masterfully portrays the comfort and guidance provided by the shepherd, reflecting the congregation's yearning for spiritual solace.

Musically, the cantata is rich and varied, featuring a combination of chorales, recitatives, and arias. Bach utilized a range of instruments, including strings and woodwinds, to evoke pastoral imagery. The chorale forms captured the text’s poignancy, while the expressive arias highlighted the emotional weight of the shepherding metaphor. This composition not only served as a worship piece but also established Bach’s reputation as an innovative composer who harmoniously fused theological content with artistic expression.

The premiere marked a significant moment in Bach’s career, solidifying his role as a central figure in the sacred music tradition of the time. This cantata, among others, contributed to the evolution of the cantata form, influencing composers who followed. The work exemplified the Baroque era's blending of emotion and liturgical significance through music, shaping Lutheran worship practices and leaving a lasting impression on the genre.