Lyrics To How Great Thou Art
In the vast repertoire of religious hymns that grace congregational gatherings, “How Great Thou Art” stands as a timeless testament to faith and reverence. Originating from a Swedish poem penned by Carl Boberg in 1885, this hymn has traversed continents and cultures, captivating hearts with its profound message and stirring melody. With lyrics that reflect on the majesty of creation and the wonder of God’s love, “How Great Thou Art” continues to resonate with believers across generations.
The journey of “How Great Thou Art” from its humble beginnings to its status as a cherished hymn is a testament to the power of inspired poetry and music. Boberg, a Swedish pastor and poet, wrote the original poem titled “O Store Gud” (“O Great God”) after witnessing a stunning display of nature following a thunderstorm. The beauty of the landscape and the overwhelming sense of awe inspired Boberg to express his gratitude and praise to God through poetry.
The poem was later set to music by Swedish musician Carl Gustav Boberg, and the resulting hymn gained popularity in Sweden and beyond. However, it was the English translation by British missionary Stuart K. Hine in the early 20th century that propelled “How Great Thou Art” to international acclaim. Hine’s translation captured the essence of Boberg’s original poem while imbuing it with a lyrical flow and emotional resonance that resonated with English-speaking audiences.
The lyrics of “How Great Thou Art” evoke a sense of wonder and reverence for the Creator and His creation. The opening lines, “O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder / Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made,” invite listeners to contemplate the magnificence of the universe and the divine craftsmanship evident in every aspect of creation. From the soaring heights of the heavens to the depths of the earth, the hymn celebrates the boundless creativity and power of God.
As the song progresses, it transitions from awe-inspired reflection to heartfelt adoration. The refrain, “Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee: / How great Thou art! How great Thou art!” serves as a declaration of faith and praise, as the singer’s soul responds to the overwhelming greatness of God with joyful exaltation. This refrain, repeated throughout the hymn, serves as a powerful reminder of the believer’s personal relationship with God and the profound impact of His grace and mercy.
One of the most poignant moments in “How Great Thou Art” comes in the third verse, which reflects on the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. The lyrics, “And when I think that God, His Son not sparing, / Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in,” encapsulate the mystery and magnitude of God’s redemptive plan. The hymn acknowledges the depth of God’s love in sending His Son to die for humanity’s sins, underscoring the central message of Christian faith.
Throughout its verses, “How Great Thou Art” weaves together themes of creation, redemption, and personal devotion in a seamless tapestry of worship. Its emotive language and stirring melody have made it a favorite for congregational singing, inspiring countless individuals to lift their voices in praise and thanksgiving. Whether sung in grand cathedrals or intimate prayer gatherings, the hymn continues to draw believers into a deeper experience of worship and communion with God.
The enduring popularity of “How Great Thou Art” speaks to its universal appeal and timeless message. Across denominations and cultures, believers have found solace and inspiration in its lyrics, finding comfort in the assurance of God’s greatness and love. From its humble origins in a Swedish poem to its status as a beloved hymn sung by millions, “How Great Thou Art” stands as a testament to the power of music and poetry to express the deepest longings of the human spirit and the enduring truth of the Christian faith.
In a world often marked by turmoil and uncertainty, the words of “How Great Thou Art” offer a message of hope and assurance. They remind believers of the eternal truth that God is indeed great, and His love endures forever. As long as there are hearts to sing and souls to listen, the timeless reverence of “How Great Thou Art” will continue to echo through the halls of churches and the depths of individual spirits, lifting praises to the One who is worthy of all honor and glory.
