How Great Thou Art Lyrics: History & Meaning

How Great Thou Art is a timeless hymn cherished across generations for its powerful message of praise and adoration for God. Its soaring melody and profound lyrics evoke a sense of awe and wonder at the greatness of the divine. Guys, in this article, we'll dive deep into the lyrics of this beloved hymn, explore its fascinating history, and uncover the meaning behind its enduring appeal. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to this beautiful song, get ready to discover the richness and depth of "How Great Thou Art."

The Lyrics of How Great Thou Art

The lyrics of "How Great Thou Art" are a testament to the majesty and glory of God, expressing awe and reverence for His creation and His love. The song takes us on a journey, from witnessing the beauty of nature to contemplating the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, and ultimately, to anticipating the joy of meeting Him in heaven. Each verse builds upon the previous one, creating a crescendo of praise that culminates in the powerful refrain, "Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee; How great Thou art, how great Thou art!"

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 sets the stage, inviting us to marvel at the grandeur of God's creation. The singer contemplates the vastness of the universe, from the distant stars to the powerful forces of nature, recognizing the divine hand behind it all. The use of words like "awesome wonder" and "rolling thunder" evokes a sense of both reverence and awe, highlighting the immensity of God's power and majesty. This verse encourages us to look around and appreciate the world around us as a testament to God's greatness. It's like saying, "Wow, look at everything God has made! It's incredible!"

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;

This verse shifts the focus from the cosmic to the earthly, inviting us to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. The imagery is vivid and personal, with the singer wandering through woods and forests, listening to birdsong, and gazing from mountain heights. The gentle breeze and the flowing brook add to the sense of peace and tranquility, creating a feeling of connection with nature and with the divine Creator. This verse reminds us that God's beauty is not just in the vastness of the universe but also in the small, everyday wonders of the world around us. It's like taking a deep breath of fresh air and feeling grateful for the simple things in life.

Verse 3

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing, Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in; That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin;

This verse marks a turning point in the hymn, shifting the focus from creation to redemption. The singer reflects on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who willingly died on the cross to atone for the sins of humanity. The words "I scarce can take it in" express the overwhelming nature of this sacrifice, highlighting the depth of God's love and mercy. This verse is a powerful reminder of the central message of Christianity – that God's love is so great that He was willing to give His only Son to save us. It's a moment of profound reflection and gratitude for the gift of salvation.

Verse 4

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!”

The final verse looks forward to the second coming of Christ and the ultimate reunion with God in heaven. The anticipation of this event fills the singer's heart with joy and hope. The image of bowing in humble adoration captures the reverence and worship that will be offered to God in His presence. The repetition of the phrase "My God, how great Thou art!" reinforces the central theme of the hymn, expressing unending praise and adoration. This verse is a hopeful vision of the future, a promise of eternal life and fellowship with God.

Refrain

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 refrain is the heart of the hymn, a powerful expression of praise and adoration. The phrase "Then sings my soul" emphasizes the depth of the singer's devotion, suggesting that the song comes from the very core of their being. The repetition of "How great Thou art" reinforces the central theme of the hymn, creating a resounding declaration of God's majesty and glory. The refrain is a joyful outburst of praise, a spontaneous expression of love and gratitude for God's goodness.

The History of How Great Thou Art

The journey of "How Great Thou Art" from a Swedish poem to a worldwide hymn is a testament to the power of music to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. Its history is a fascinating tapestry woven with threads of faith, translation, and musical collaboration. Guys, let's trace the steps of this amazing hymn's journey through time.

From Sweden to Russia

The story begins in Sweden in 1885, when Carl Boberg, a Swedish pastor, penned a poem titled "O Store Gud" (O Great God). Boberg was inspired by a powerful experience of being caught in a sudden thunderstorm, followed by clear skies and birdsong. This experience filled him with a sense of awe and wonder at the power and beauty of God. The poem captures this feeling, expressing a deep appreciation for God's creation.

Boberg's poem was first published in a Swedish Christian periodical in 1886. It was later sung to a Swedish folk melody, becoming a beloved hymn in Sweden. However, its journey to international fame was just beginning. In 1907, a Russian missionary translated the poem into Russian. This translation made its way to various Slavic countries, where it gained popularity among evangelical Christians.

English Translations and Global Recognition

The hymn's journey continued in the 1920s when English missionaries in Ukraine translated the Russian version back into English. There were actually a few different English translations that emerged during this time. However, the version that we sing today is largely based on the work of English missionaries. These early English translations helped to spread the hymn beyond its Slavic roots, introducing it to a wider audience.

The pivotal moment in the hymn's history came in 1949 when English missionary Stuart K. Hine created his own English version of the hymn. Hine had heard the hymn sung in both Russian and German while ministering in Eastern Europe. He was deeply moved by its message and its power to connect people across cultures. Hine's translation, which combined elements of previous English versions with his own poetic contributions, captured the essence of the original Swedish poem while making it accessible to English-speaking audiences.

Hine's version of "How Great Thou Art" quickly gained popularity, particularly within evangelical Christian circles. It was sung at Billy Graham crusades around the world, reaching millions of people and solidifying its place as a beloved hymn. The hymn's powerful message of praise and its singable melody resonated with audiences of all backgrounds, making it a staple in churches and Christian gatherings worldwide. Isn't it amazing how a poem written in Sweden can travel the world and touch so many hearts?

The Meaning and Enduring Appeal

"How Great Thou Art" has resonated with generations of Christians for its powerful message of praise, its evocative imagery, and its singable melody. But what is it about this hymn that makes it so enduring? Let's explore the deeper meaning behind its appeal.

A Universal Expression of Faith

One of the key reasons for the hymn's enduring popularity is its ability to express a universal human experience of faith. The lyrics speak to the awe and wonder we feel when we contemplate the vastness of creation, the beauty of nature, and the love of God. These are experiences that transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries, connecting people from all walks of life. The hymn provides a language for expressing these profound emotions, allowing us to give voice to our faith in a powerful and meaningful way. It's like a shared language of the heart, speaking to something deep within us all.

A Journey from Creation to Redemption

The hymn's structure takes us on a journey, from the contemplation of creation to the recognition of God's redemptive love. The first two verses focus on the natural world, inviting us to marvel at the stars, the mountains, the forests, and the birdsong. These images evoke a sense of awe and wonder at God's creative power. The third verse shifts the focus to the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, reminding us of God's love and mercy. The final verse looks forward to the second coming of Christ and the promise of eternal life. This journey from creation to redemption captures the essence of the Christian faith, offering a holistic view of God's relationship with humanity.

A Personal and Powerful Declaration

"How Great Thou Art" is not just a hymn to be sung; it's a personal declaration of faith. The words "Then sings my soul" suggest a deep, heartfelt connection with God. The hymn invites us to express our own personal adoration and gratitude for God's goodness. The repetition of the phrase "How great Thou art" reinforces this personal declaration, making it a powerful expression of our faith. It's like standing up and saying, "I believe this! I feel this in my heart!"

A Timeless Melody

In addition to its powerful lyrics, the hymn's melody is also a key factor in its enduring appeal. The soaring tune is both memorable and moving, evoking a sense of grandeur and reverence. The melody perfectly complements the lyrics, enhancing their emotional impact. It's a melody that stays with you long after you've sung it, a reminder of the message of the hymn. The combination of powerful lyrics and a timeless melody makes "How Great Thou Art" a truly unforgettable hymn.

Conclusion

"How Great Thou Art" is more than just a hymn; it's a testament to the enduring power of faith, the beauty of creation, and the depth of God's love. Its journey from a Swedish poem to a worldwide anthem is a remarkable story of cultural exchange and spiritual connection. The lyrics, with their vivid imagery and profound message, invite us to contemplate the greatness of God and to express our adoration and gratitude. The melody, with its soaring beauty, enhances the emotional impact of the words, making the hymn a truly moving experience. So, guys, the next time you sing "How Great Thou Art," remember the rich history and the deep meaning behind this beloved hymn. Let the words resonate in your heart, and let your soul sing praises to the God who is indeed so great!