How Great Thou Art Lyrics: Meaning And Story
How Great Thou Art is a Christian hymn beloved by many for its powerful melody and moving lyrics. This timeless song has resonated with congregations and individuals for generations, expressing awe and reverence for God's creation and salvation. This article delves into the lyrics of How Great Thou Art, explores its rich history, and unpacks the profound meaning behind its words. Join us as we celebrate this inspiring hymn and its enduring message of faith.
The Lyrics to How Great Thou Art
To fully appreciate the beauty and depth of How Great Thou Art, let's explore the lyrics verse by verse. The song's words paint a vivid picture of God's majesty and grace, inviting us to reflect on His greatness and love. Understanding the lyrics is key to grasping the hymn's profound message and connecting with its emotional power.
Verse 1
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
The opening verse immediately establishes a tone of reverence and awe. The singer is overwhelmed by the wonder of God's creation. Phrases like "awesome wonder" and "worlds Thy Hands have made" emphasize the vastness and intricacy of the universe, all crafted by God. The specific examples of "stars" and "rolling thunder" evoke a sense of both the beauty and the power of nature, serving as visible and audible manifestations of God's greatness. This verse is a call to contemplation, urging us to look around and recognize the divine artistry in the world around us. It's about recognizing that the universe isn't just a random occurrence, but a carefully crafted masterpiece reflecting the power and glory of its Creator. The imagery is designed to be accessible – stars, thunder – things we can all witness and experience, regardless of our background or location. This universality is part of what makes the hymn so relatable and enduring.
The impact of this verse also lies in its personal nature. The singer isn't just observing creation from a distance; they are considering it "in awesome wonder." This active engagement, this personal reflection, is crucial to the hymn's message. It's not enough to simply acknowledge God's power; we must internalize it, allowing it to inspire awe and reverence within us. The use of the word "Thy" (meaning "Your") further reinforces this personal connection, creating a direct dialogue between the singer and God. We're not just singing about God; we're singing to Him, acknowledging His presence and involvement in our lives and the world around us.
The mention of God's power being "displayed throughout the universe" is a powerful statement of God's omnipresence. It suggests that God's influence is not limited to a specific place or time but extends to every corner of creation. This thought is both humbling and comforting. Humbling because it reminds us of our small place in the grand scheme of things, and comforting because it assures us that God is always present, always watching over us. The verse sets the stage for the rest of the hymn, establishing the foundation of awe and wonder upon which the subsequent verses will build. It's an invitation to see the world through a lens of faith, to recognize the divine hand at work in every aspect of creation.
Chorus
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee; How great Thou art, How great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee: How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
The chorus is the heart and soul of the hymn, a resounding declaration of God's greatness. It's a personal expression of worship, a heartfelt outpouring of praise from the singer's soul. The repetition of "How great Thou art" emphasizes the magnitude of God's glory, reinforcing the central theme of the song. The phrase "My Savior God" is particularly significant. It highlights the personal relationship between the singer and God, acknowledging Jesus Christ as the Redeemer and source of salvation. This is a shift from the general observation of God's creation in the first verse to a more specific recognition of His saving grace.
The phrase "Then sings my soul" is evocative, suggesting that the singer's praise is not just a lip service but a deep, internal response to God's greatness. The soul, often considered the seat of our emotions and spiritual being, is moved to sing out in adoration. This implies that true worship is more than just reciting words; it's a genuine expression of the heart. The repetition of the entire phrase reinforces the intensity of this feeling, suggesting a continuous cycle of recognition and praise. It's like saying, "I see God's greatness, and my soul can't help but sing!"
The chorus serves as both a response to the preceding verse and a bridge to the following ones. It acknowledges the wonder inspired by creation and sets the stage for the exploration of God's redemptive love in the subsequent verses. The simplicity of the lyrics, coupled with their powerful message, makes the chorus easily memorable and singable. It's a communal expression of faith, uniting voices in a shared declaration of God's greatness. The direct address to God ("to Thee") further personalizes the worship experience, creating a sense of intimacy and connection. We are not just singing about God; we are singing to Him, acknowledging His presence and engaging in a direct dialogue of praise.
The use of exclamation points after each repetition of "How great Thou art!" adds to the emotional intensity. It's a visual representation of the overwhelming awe and reverence the singer feels. The chorus is not just a statement; it's an exclamation, a cry of adoration that bursts forth from the soul. This emphasis on emotional expression is a key characteristic of the hymn, making it resonate with people of different backgrounds and experiences. The chorus is a universal language of praise, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. It's a timeless expression of faith that continues to inspire and uplift generations.
Verse 2
When through the woods and forest glades I wander And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees, When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze;
Verse 2 continues the theme of creation as a testament to God's greatness, shifting the focus from the vastness of the universe to the beauty of the natural world on Earth. The imagery is vivid and sensory, engaging our sight, hearing, and touch. Phrases like "woods and forest glades," "birds sing sweetly," "lofty mountain grandeur," and "gentle breeze" paint a picture of tranquility and natural beauty. This verse highlights the intricate details of creation, the delicate balance and harmony that exists in the natural world. It invites us to appreciate the smaller wonders of God's creation, not just the grand spectacle of the cosmos.
The act of wandering through the woods and forests suggests a contemplative journey, a deliberate seeking of connection with nature and, by extension, with God. It's not just about passively observing the scenery; it's about actively engaging with it, immersing oneself in the natural world. The sound of birds singing "sweetly in the trees" is a particularly evocative image, representing the joy and harmony of creation. The mountain grandeur, viewed from a high vantage point, provides a sense of perspective, reminding us of the vastness of the Earth and our relatively small place within it. This perspective can be humbling but also inspiring, prompting us to appreciate the scale of God's creative power.
The mention of the "brook" and the "gentle breeze" adds a tactile element to the verse, engaging our sense of touch and further immersing us in the scene. These subtle sensations, the feel of the wind on our skin, the sound of water flowing, contribute to a sense of peace and tranquility. They are reminders of the simple pleasures of life, the gifts of nature that we often take for granted. By highlighting these details, the verse encourages us to be more mindful of the world around us, to pay attention to the small wonders that often go unnoticed.
This verse also serves as a reminder of God's immanence, His presence within the created world. He is not just a distant Creator; He is actively involved in sustaining and beautifying His creation. The beauty of nature is not just a random occurrence; it is a reflection of God's character, His love, and His artistry. By appreciating the natural world, we are, in a sense, encountering God Himself. The verse is an invitation to find God in the ordinary, to see His handiwork in the everyday wonders of nature. It's a reminder that we don't have to travel to distant lands or seek out extraordinary experiences to encounter the divine; God is present all around us, in the gentle breeze, the singing birds, and the flowing brook.
Verse 3
When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim, My God, how great Thou art!
Verse 3 shifts the focus from creation to eschatology, the study of the end times and the second coming of Christ. This verse speaks of hope and anticipation, envisioning the glorious return of Christ and the believer's ultimate homecoming. The phrase "When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation" evokes a powerful image of Christ's triumphant return, accompanied by the joyous shouts of His followers. This is a moment of ultimate victory and fulfillment, the culmination of Christian hope.
The promise of being taken "home" is a deeply comforting one, referring to the believer's eternal dwelling place in heaven. This is the ultimate destination of the Christian journey, a place of perfect peace, joy, and communion with God. The anticipation of this homecoming fills the heart with "joy," an overwhelming sense of happiness and fulfillment. This joy is not just a fleeting emotion; it's a deep, abiding sense of peace and contentment that comes from knowing one's eternal destiny is secure in Christ.
The image of bowing in "humble adoration" before God is a powerful expression of reverence and submission. It's a recognition of God's ultimate authority and majesty, a willingness to surrender oneself completely to His will. This act of adoration is not forced or reluctant; it's a joyful and willing response to God's love and grace. It's an acknowledgment that God is worthy of all praise and honor.
The final line of the verse, "And there proclaim, My God, how great Thou art!" echoes the sentiment of the chorus, reaffirming the central theme of the hymn. But in this context, the proclamation takes on a new dimension. It's not just a present-day expression of praise; it's a future declaration, a promise of eternal worship in the presence of God. This vision of future glory gives hope and purpose to the present, reminding us that our earthly lives are just a prelude to an eternal existence in God's presence.
This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the Christian hope, the promise of eternal life with Christ. It encourages believers to look beyond the present circumstances and fix their eyes on the future glory that awaits them. It's a call to persevere in faith, knowing that the ultimate reward is yet to come. The verse also highlights the importance of worship and adoration, both in the present and in the future. It reminds us that our lives should be a continuous act of worship, a reflection of God's greatness in all that we do.
Verse 4 (Optional)
When I survey the wondrous cross On which the Prince of glory died, My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride.
Some versions of How Great Thou Art include a fourth verse that focuses on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. This verse delves into the heart of Christian theology, exploring the themes of atonement, redemption, and the humility that comes from recognizing the magnitude of Christ's sacrifice. The opening line, "When I survey the wondrous cross," invites us to contemplate the central symbol of Christianity, the cross upon which Jesus died for the sins of humanity. The adjective "wondrous" suggests that the cross is not just an instrument of death but a symbol of God's amazing love and grace.
The phrase "On which the Prince of glory died" is a powerful reminder of the identity of Jesus Christ, the Son of God who willingly sacrificed Himself for our salvation. The title "Prince of glory" emphasizes His divine nature, highlighting the enormity of His sacrifice. The fact that the King of Kings would willingly endure such suffering for humanity is a testament to His boundless love and compassion.
The lines "My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride" express a radical reevaluation of earthly values in light of Christ's sacrifice. The singer recognizes that all worldly possessions and achievements are insignificant compared to the gift of salvation. Pride, often considered a virtue in secular society, is seen as an obstacle to true faith and humility. This is a call to prioritize spiritual values over material ones, to recognize that true wealth lies in our relationship with God.
This verse adds another layer of depth to the hymn, connecting the wonder of creation and the hope of Christ's return with the central event of Christian history, the crucifixion. It reminds us that God's greatness is not just manifested in the vastness of the universe or the beauty of nature but also in the profound sacrifice of His Son. The verse is a call to repentance and humility, urging us to lay down our pride and embrace the grace offered through Christ's atoning death. It's a reminder that the cross is not just a historical event; it's a living symbol of God's love and a constant source of hope and redemption.
The History of How Great Thou Art
The story behind How Great Thou Art is as fascinating as the hymn itself. It's a tale of global collaboration and adaptation, spanning continents and cultures. Understanding the hymn's history enriches our appreciation for its message and its enduring appeal. Let's explore the journey of this beloved hymn from its origins to its current popularity.
From Swedish Poem to Global Hymn
The roots of How Great Thou Art can be traced back to a Swedish poem written in 1885 by Carl Boberg, a pastor and songwriter. Boberg's inspiration came from a powerful experience of being caught in a thunderstorm and then witnessing the beauty of the calm that followed. This experience led him to reflect on the power and majesty of God, as well as His peace and gentleness. The original poem, titled "O Store Gud" (O Great God), was nine verses long and expressed Boberg's awe and wonder at God's creation.
Boberg's poem was soon set to a traditional Swedish folk melody and became a popular song in Sweden. It spread throughout Scandinavia and eventually made its way to other parts of Europe. The Swedish version of the hymn captures the essence of Boberg's original experience, with its vivid imagery of nature and its heartfelt expression of faith. It's a testament to the power of personal experience to inspire worship and artistic creation. Boberg's poem is a reminder that encounters with the natural world can be profound spiritual experiences, leading us to a deeper understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity.
The journey of How Great Thou Art from a Swedish poem to a global hymn is a testament to the power of translation and adaptation. The poem's message of awe and wonder resonated with people across cultures and languages, leading to its widespread adoption and transformation. The hymn's enduring appeal lies in its ability to articulate universal human experiences of faith and connection with the divine. It's a reminder that the language of worship transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, uniting believers in a shared expression of adoration and gratitude.
English Translation and George Beverly Shea's Influence
In 1925, the poem was translated into German and then, in 1927, into Russian by Ivan S. Prokhanoff. It was the Russian version that caught the attention of English missionaries in the Soviet Union. In 1933, English missionaries Stuart K. Hine and his wife, Helen, heard a congregation in Ukraine singing the Russian version of the hymn. Moved by the song's message and melody, Hine began working on an English translation. He initially translated three verses, drawing inspiration from both the Russian text and his own experiences in the Carpathian Mountains.
Hine's English translation captured the essence of Boberg's original poem while also adding his own unique voice and perspective. He crafted lyrics that were both poetic and accessible, conveying the hymn's message of awe and wonder in a way that resonated with English-speaking audiences. Hine's work is a testament to the art of translation, the ability to convey not just the literal meaning of words but also the emotional and spiritual essence of a text. His translation of How Great Thou Art is a masterpiece of hymnody, a blending of different cultural and linguistic traditions into a unified expression of faith.
However, it was not until after World War II that Hine added the fourth verse, the one focusing on Christ's return, inspired by his experiences during the war. This verse gave the hymn an added dimension of hope and anticipation, making it even more powerful and relevant to the Christian experience. The inclusion of this verse solidified the hymn's place in the repertoire of Christian congregations around the world.
George Beverly Shea, the renowned gospel singer with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, played a crucial role in popularizing How Great Thou Art in the English-speaking world. Shea first heard the hymn in 1954 and immediately recognized its power and potential. He began singing it at Billy Graham crusades, introducing it to vast audiences and making it a staple of gospel music. Shea's rich baritone voice and heartfelt delivery brought the hymn to life for millions, helping to cement its place as a beloved classic.
Shea's influence on the popularity of How Great Thou Art cannot be overstated. His performances of the hymn at Billy Graham crusades exposed it to a global audience, crossing denominational and cultural boundaries. Shea's rendition of the hymn became iconic, his voice forever associated with its message of awe and wonder. His contribution to the hymn's legacy is a testament to the power of music to communicate faith and inspire worship. Shea's dedication to sharing the gospel through song made How Great Thou Art a powerful tool for evangelism, bringing its message of God's greatness to countless hearts and minds.
The Meaning Behind How Great Thou Art
Beyond its beautiful lyrics and melody, How Great Thou Art carries a profound message about God's character and our relationship with Him. The hymn is a powerful expression of Christian faith, encompassing themes of creation, redemption, and hope. Let's delve into the deeper meaning of the hymn, exploring the key theological concepts it conveys.
A Declaration of God's Majesty and Power
At its core, How Great Thou Art is a declaration of God's majesty and power. The hymn emphasizes the vastness and intricacy of God's creation, from the stars in the sky to the gentle breeze in the forest. This emphasis on creation serves to highlight God's omnipotence, His ability to bring the universe into existence and sustain it. The hymn invites us to contemplate the sheer scale of God's creative power, to be awestruck by His artistry and design.
The hymn also emphasizes God's transcendence, His existence beyond and above the created world. God is not just a part of creation; He is the Creator, the one who stands outside of and prior to the universe. This sense of God's transcendence is balanced by the hymn's emphasis on His immanence, His presence within the created world. God is not just a distant Creator; He is actively involved in sustaining and beautifying His creation. He is present in the singing of the birds, the flowing of the brook, and the gentle breeze. This balance between transcendence and immanence is a key aspect of Christian theology, reflecting the mystery of God's nature.
The hymn's declaration of God's majesty and power is not just an intellectual exercise; it's an invitation to worship. The hymn's repeated refrain, "How great Thou art!" is an exclamation of praise, a heartfelt expression of adoration and gratitude. The hymn invites us to respond to God's greatness with our own expressions of worship, to acknowledge His sovereignty and to surrender ourselves to His will. This act of worship is not just a duty; it's a privilege, an opportunity to connect with the divine and to experience the joy of knowing God.
Acknowledgment of Salvation Through Jesus Christ
How Great Thou Art is not just about God's power in creation; it's also about His love and grace in redemption. The hymn explicitly mentions Jesus Christ as the "Savior God," highlighting the central role of Christ in Christian theology. The optional fourth verse further emphasizes this theme, focusing on the sacrifice of Christ on the cross as the ultimate expression of God's love for humanity.
The hymn's acknowledgment of salvation through Jesus Christ underscores the Christian belief in the fallen nature of humanity and the need for redemption. Sin has separated humanity from God, but God, in His love, sent His Son to bridge the gap. Christ's death on the cross is seen as an atoning sacrifice, paying the penalty for human sin and making reconciliation with God possible. This concept of atonement is central to Christian faith, representing the heart of God's redemptive plan.
The hymn's emphasis on salvation is not just about escaping punishment; it's about experiencing a transformed life in relationship with God. Through faith in Christ, believers receive forgiveness of sins and the gift of eternal life. They are also empowered to live a life that is pleasing to God, a life characterized by love, joy, and peace. The hymn is a reminder that salvation is not just a one-time event; it's an ongoing process of growth and transformation, a journey of becoming more like Christ.
Hope for the Future and the Second Coming
Beyond creation and redemption, How Great Thou Art also conveys a strong sense of hope for the future. The third verse speaks of Christ's return and the believer's ultimate homecoming, envisioning a time when God's kingdom will be fully realized on Earth. This eschatological vision is a key aspect of Christian hope, providing a sense of purpose and direction for believers in the present.
The hymn's depiction of Christ's return is not just a literal prediction of future events; it's also a symbolic representation of the ultimate triumph of good over evil, of God's kingdom over earthly powers. The "shout of acclamation" that accompanies Christ's return is a celebration of this victory, a joyous recognition of God's ultimate sovereignty. The promise of being taken "home" to be with Christ is a source of comfort and encouragement for believers, reminding them that their earthly struggles are temporary and that a glorious future awaits them.
The hymn's hope for the future is not just a passive expectation; it's an active motivation for Christian living. The anticipation of Christ's return inspires believers to live lives that are worthy of the calling they have received, to work for justice and peace in the world, and to share the good news of the gospel with others. The hymn is a call to be faithful stewards of God's grace, to use our gifts and talents to further His kingdom, and to live in a way that reflects the values of His kingdom.
Conclusion
How Great Thou Art is more than just a hymn; it's a timeless expression of faith, a powerful declaration of God's greatness. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of God's majesty in creation, His love in redemption, and His promise for the future. The hymn's rich history, spanning continents and cultures, testifies to its universal appeal and its enduring message. Whether sung in a grand cathedral or a small gathering, How Great Thou Art continues to inspire awe and reverence, reminding us of the greatness of our God. So, the next time you hear this beloved hymn, take a moment to reflect on its profound message and join your voice in the chorus of praise: How great Thou art! How great Thou art!
