How Great Thou Art Lyrics: A Hymn Of Awe And Wonder

Introduction to How Great Thou Art

How Great Thou Art is one of the most beloved and powerful hymns in the Christian tradition. Guys, if you've ever been to a church service or a gospel concert, chances are you've heard this magnificent song. Its soaring melody and profound lyrics evoke a sense of awe and reverence for the divine. The hymn’s journey through time and cultures is a fascinating story in itself, reflecting its universal appeal and enduring message. The lyrics paint vivid images of nature's grandeur and the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ, creating a deeply emotional and spiritual experience for singers and listeners alike. So, let's dive into the rich history, the heartfelt lyrics, and the deep meaning behind this timeless hymn.

The Origins and History

The story of How Great Thou Art begins long before it became a staple in churches worldwide. It started with a Swedish poem written by Carl Boberg in 1885. Boberg, a Swedish preacher, and parliament member, was inspired to write the poem after experiencing a powerful encounter with nature. Imagine him walking home from church near the tranquil shores of Kronobäck, Sweden. A sudden thunderstorm arose, followed by a clear, radiant sky. The beauty and power of this natural display filled him with a sense of God's majesty, prompting him to pen the words that would eventually become How Great Thou Art. Boberg initially published his poem, titled “O Store Gud” (O Great God), in a Swedish Christian periodical, Sanningsvittnet.

The poem was soon sung as a Swedish hymn, and its melody began to spread throughout Scandinavia and Germany. In 1925, a German translation of Boberg's poem was made by Manfred Claesson. It was this German version that caught the attention of Russian missionary Ivan S. Prokhanoff, who then translated it into Russian. Prokhanoff’s version became popular among Russian evangelicals. This marked a significant step in the hymn's journey, as it began to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. The hymn’s travels didn't stop there. It eventually found its way to England, where English clergymen Stuart K. Hine and his wife were deeply moved by its message and melody.

The English Transformation by Stuart K. Hine

The most well-known English version of How Great Thou Art is attributed to Stuart K. Hine, a British Methodist missionary. Hine’s contribution was pivotal in bringing the hymn to English-speaking audiences worldwide. In the 1930s, while ministering in the Carpathian Mountains of Ukraine, Hine encountered the Russian version of the hymn. Inspired by the words and the tune, he began to translate the verses into English. Hine not only translated the existing verses but also added his own, reflecting his personal faith and experiences. He crafted the powerful fourth verse, which speaks of Christ's return, adding a new dimension to the hymn’s message. Hine’s version first gained popularity among missionaries and evangelical circles in Europe before making its way to America.

The hymn gained significant traction in the United States during the Cold War era, resonating with congregations who found solace and strength in its message of divine power and hope. The inclusion of How Great Thou Art in the Billy Graham crusades further amplified its popularity. Graham, a renowned evangelist, often featured the hymn in his massive gatherings, introducing it to millions of people. The song’s majestic melody and powerful lyrics struck a chord with audiences, solidifying its place in American gospel music. Today, How Great Thou Art is sung in countless churches and gatherings around the world, a testament to its timeless appeal and profound spiritual impact. It continues to inspire generations, reminding them of the greatness of God and the hope found in Jesus Christ.

The Complete Lyrics to How Great Thou Art

To truly appreciate the beauty and depth of How Great Thou Art, it’s essential to understand the lyrics. Each verse paints a vivid picture of God's creation, His love, and the hope of eternal life. Let’s explore the complete lyrics, breaking down each verse and its meaning.

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

This opening verse sets the stage for a grand and awe-inspiring experience. The singer expresses a sense of wonder and reverence as they contemplate the vastness of God's creation. Think about it, guys, when you look up at the night sky filled with stars or listen to the rumble of thunder, it's hard not to feel a sense of awe. The phrase "worlds Thy Hands have made" emphasizes the immensity of God's creative power. The stars and the thunder serve as tangible evidence of His might, displayed throughout the universe. This verse invites us to reflect on the sheer scale of God’s creation and our place within it. It’s a reminder that we are part of something much larger than ourselves, and that the universe itself is a testament to God's glory.

The emphasis on "awesome wonder" highlights the appropriate response to such a grand display of power. It’s not just about acknowledging God's existence, but also about feeling a deep sense of awe and reverence. The verse encourages a personal connection with the divine, inviting each individual to consider the majesty of God's handiwork. It’s a call to recognize the power that sustains the cosmos and to appreciate the intricate beauty of the natural world. The opening lines are a powerful declaration of faith, grounded in the visible wonders of creation. They set the tone for the entire hymn, establishing a theme of reverence and adoration that permeates each subsequent verse. By starting with the vastness of the universe, the hymn immediately establishes a sense of the divine’s boundless nature, making the following verses about personal salvation and hope even more impactful.

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;

In the second verse, the focus shifts from the cosmic to the terrestrial, bringing the grandeur of God’s creation closer to home. The imagery is vivid and personal, inviting the singer to imagine themselves walking through woods and forest glades. This change in perspective allows for a more intimate connection with nature and, by extension, with God. The simple yet beautiful act of listening to birds singing in the trees becomes a form of worship, a way to appreciate the delicate balance and beauty of the natural world. This verse highlights the idea that God’s presence can be felt not only in grand, sweeping displays of power but also in the quiet, subtle moments of everyday life.

The mention of "lofty mountain grandeur" elevates the scene, providing a sense of perspective. Looking down from a mountain, one can appreciate the vastness of the landscape and the intricate details of the world below. This vantage point serves as a metaphor for gaining a broader understanding of God's creation and His plans. The sounds of the brook and the feel of the gentle breeze add to the sensory experience, making the connection with nature even more tangible. These natural elements are not just background scenery; they are active participants in the hymn’s narrative, each contributing to the overall feeling of awe and reverence. The verse beautifully illustrates how nature itself can be a form of divine communication, speaking to us in ways that words often cannot.

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;

Verse three transitions from the wonders of creation to the profound sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This is the emotional heart of the hymn, where the singer reflects on the immense love and selflessness of God. The phrase "God, His Son not sparing" immediately sets a tone of deep reverence and gratitude. It highlights the enormity of the sacrifice – God sending His only Son to die for humanity. The line “I scarce can take it in” expresses the overwhelming nature of this act, acknowledging the difficulty in fully comprehending such a profound display of love. It’s a moment of humility and recognition of the divine mystery.

The image of Jesus on the Cross, “my burden gladly bearing,” is central to Christian theology. It speaks of Christ’s willingness to take on the sins of the world, offering redemption and salvation. The words “He bled and died to take away my sin” are a powerful reminder of the personal impact of this sacrifice. It’s not just a historical event; it’s a deeply personal act of love and forgiveness. This verse connects the vastness of creation described in the earlier verses to the personal experience of salvation. It emphasizes that the God who created the universe is also the God who cares deeply for each individual. The emotional weight of this verse is palpable, inviting the singer to reflect on their own relationship with God and the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice. The simplicity of the language underscores the directness of the message, making it accessible and deeply moving.

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,