How Great Thou Art: Lyrics & Meaning Explained

Are you ready to explore the powerful and moving lyrics of How Great Thou Art? This hymn has resonated with hearts for generations, and we’re going to break down the verses and uncover the profound meaning behind each line. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to this beautiful song, get ready for a journey into the heart of How Great Thou Art.

The Story Behind the Song

Before we dive into the lyrics, let's take a quick look at the fascinating history of How Great Thou Art. This hymn wasn't written in English initially; it's a translation of a Swedish poem called "O Store Gud," penned by Carl Boberg in 1885. Boberg was inspired by a powerful experience of nature – a sudden thunderstorm followed by serene sunshine. He captured this awe-inspiring moment in his poem, which eventually made its way around the world.

The English version we sing today is largely attributed to Stuart K. Hine, a British missionary who translated and adapted the song during his time in Ukraine in the 1930s. Hine’s version gained immense popularity, especially after it was featured during Billy Graham’s crusades in the 1950s and 60s. Since then, How Great Thou Art has become a staple in churches and Christian gatherings worldwide, known for its soaring melody and powerful message of God's greatness.

Verse 1: Awe of Creation

Let’s get started with the first verse, which sets the stage for the entire hymn:

O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made; I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

In this verse, we immediately encounter the core theme of the song: awe and wonder at God’s creation. The singer is overwhelmed by the sheer vastness and beauty of the universe, recognizing it as the work of God’s hands. Phrases like “awesome wonder” and “all the worlds Thy Hands have made” emphasize the magnitude of God’s creative power. The imagery of stars and rolling thunder further highlights the grandeur of nature and God's presence within it. The verse inspires us to look around at the world and recognize the divine artistry in everything we see, from the smallest flower to the largest galaxy. Guys, isn't it amazing how nature can remind us of something so much bigger than ourselves?

This first verse is crucial because it lays the foundation for the entire song. It establishes the perspective of someone who is deeply moved by the evidence of God's power and majesty in the natural world. The use of strong verbs like