What is the “How Great Thou Art” verse? The “How Great Thou Art” verse is the entire hymn itself, often referred to simply by its title. It’s a powerful expression of awe and devotion, celebrating the majesty of God through vivid imagery drawn from creation.
This beloved hymn, “How Great Thou Art,” is more than just a collection of beautiful words; it’s a profound declaration of faith, an invitation to worship, and a testament to the enduring power of gospel music. The lyrics themselves paint a breathtaking panorama of God’s creative power, leading the believer to a deeper appreciation of His glory. Delving into the meaning behind each verse reveals layers of theology, inspiration, and a rich connection to scripture. This hymn has resonated with millions across generations, often becoming a centerpiece in moments of communal worship and personal reflection.
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The Genesis of a Masterpiece: From Swedish Poem to Global Hymn
The journey of “How Great Thou Art” from a humble poem to a globally recognized hymn is a story of divine providence and persistent faith. While often attributed to Martin Luther, the hymn’s origins are actually rooted in 19th-century Sweden.
Carl Boberg’s Vision
The original poem, “O Store Gud” (O Great God), was penned by Swedish preacher and Member of Parliament, Carl Gustaf Boberg. The story goes that Boberg was inspired to write the words after a particularly violent thunderstorm. He was walking home from church when the sky opened up with thunder and lightning, followed by a calm, beautiful sunset. This dramatic shift in nature sparked a profound realization of God’s immense power and gentle presence.
Boberg’s initial poem, written in 1885, was a personal expression of awe. It wasn’t initially intended for congregational singing. The lyrics captured the vastness of God’s creation, from the smallest flower to the grandest sky.
Translation and Adaptation
The hymn’s global reach began with its translation into Russian by Russian evangelist Ivan Prokhanov. It was Prokhanov who added the familiar chorus. Later, it was translated into German and then, crucially, into English by English missionary Stuart K. Hine in 1933. Hine’s translation is the version most widely known and sung today. He also added his own verses, further enriching the hymn’s theology and poetic appeal. The inspiration Hine found in the original Swedish lyrics allowed him to capture the spirit of Boberg’s awe.
Fathoming the Lyrics: A Verse-by-Verse Exploration
Each verse of “How Great Thou Art” serves as a stepping stone, guiding the worshiper through different aspects of God’s character and creation. The meaning is layered, inviting contemplation and deepening faith.
Verse 1: The Grandeur of the Heavens
The first verse immediately establishes the hymn’s central theme: God’s greatness as revealed in the cosmos.
- “O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder Consider all the works Thy hand hath done,” This opening line sets a tone of profound reverence. It speaks to the personal encounter with the divine through observing creation. The phrase “awesome wonder” encapsulates the feeling of being humbled by something so vast and beautiful.
- “I view the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy powerful hand outstretched so strong.” Here, Boberg (and Hine) brings in tangible elements of nature. The stars represent the infinite expanse of the universe, a testament to God’s limitless power and design. The rolling thunder, a powerful natural phenomenon, is attributed to God’s hand, emphasizing His sovereignty over even the most forceful elements. This connects to scripture, particularly passages in Psalms that describe God’s voice in thunder (Psalm 29:3).
- “Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art!” This refrain is the heart of the hymn. It’s not just an intellectual acknowledgment of God’s greatness; it’s an outpouring from the soul, a spontaneous expression of praise. It signifies a deep, internal response to the external revelation of God. This is the essence of true worship.
Verse 2: The Earthly Magnificence
Moving from the celestial to the terrestrial, the second verse focuses on the intricate beauty of the earth.
- “When through the woods and forests I wander, I hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees,” This verse evokes a sense of peace and gentle beauty. The wandering through woods suggests a personal journey of discovery, and the birdsong represents the joyous sounds of creation praising God. This imagery is deeply rooted in the gospel message of God’s care for all His creation.
- “I feel the cool breath of the morning, The sunlight that makes the leaves to gleam.” The sensory details here – the cool breath of morning, the warmth of the sun – highlight God’s consistent provision and the gentle rhythm of nature. It speaks to God’s ongoing involvement in sustaining the world, not just its initial creation.
- “Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art!” The refrain returns, grounding the earthly wonders in the same profound awe as the celestial ones. The soul’s song is a response to the continuous display of God’s artistry.
Verse 3: Humanity’s Redemption and Christ’s Sacrifice
This verse shifts the focus from the general to the specific, from creation to redemption, centering on Jesus Christ. This is where the theology of salvation becomes prominent.
- “And when I think that God, His Son not sparing, Sent Him to die for all my sins to bear,” This is perhaps the most theologically dense verse. It directly addresses the central tenet of Christianity: the sacrificial atonement of Jesus Christ. The phrase “His Son not sparing” points to the immense love and sacrifice involved in God sending Jesus to die. This reflects scripture such as John 3:16 and Romans 8:32.
- “I scarce can take it in, that Thou, the Maker, Didst hang upon a cross for me, for all,” The poet expresses the overwhelming nature of this sacrifice, finding it almost unbelievable that the Creator of the universe would humble Himself to die for humanity. The personal pronoun “me” emphasizes the individual impact of Christ’s work. This is a powerful testament to faith.
- “Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art!” The refrain here takes on a new depth. It’s not just an appreciation for creation, but an overwhelming gratitude for redemption. The greatness of God is now understood through the lens of His saving grace. This verse is often a focal point in a sermon about the cross.
Verse 4: The Promise of Eternal Glory
The final verse, often attributed to Stuart K. Hine’s additions, looks towards the future and the ultimate hope of believers.
- “When Christ shall come with trumpet sound to meet us,” This verse anticipates the Second Coming of Christ, a cornerstone of Christian eschatology. The trumpet sound signifies a grand, divine announcement and gathering. This is a hopeful vision, a promise found throughout scripture (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
- “And we shall live with Him eternally.” This speaks to the ultimate faith and hope of eternal life in the presence of God. It’s the culmination of the gospel journey.
- “Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My God, how great Thou art!” The refrain here resonates with the ultimate expression of God’s greatness – His eternal victory and His enduring love that brings us into His eternal presence. This verse provides immense inspiration for persevering in faith.
The Theological Pillars of “How Great Thou Art”
The hymn’s lyrics are deeply rooted in Christian theology, touching upon several core doctrines.
Creation and Providence
The initial verses celebrate God’s role as Creator and Sustainer. This aligns with the biblical account of creation in Genesis and the constant theme throughout scripture that God actively governs the universe (Colossians 1:17). The awe expressed is a recognition of divine artistry and power evident in the natural world.
Atonement and Redemption
Verse 3 is a powerful articulation of the doctrine of atonement. It highlights the sacrificial nature of Christ’s death, emphasizing that it was an act of love by God the Father. This reflects the gospel message of salvation through Christ’s atoning sacrifice, a central theme in the sermons of the early church and a cornerstone of Christian faith.
Eschatology and Eternal Hope
The final verse points to the Christian hope of the Second Coming of Christ and eternal life. This aspect of theology provides comfort and inspiration, reminding believers of the ultimate victory of God and the promise of dwelling with Him forever.
“How Great Thou Art” in Worship and Community
The impact of “How Great Thou Art” extends far beyond its lyrics. It has become an integral part of Christian worship traditions worldwide.
A Conductor of Worship
As a hymn, its structure and melody are designed to lift the spirit and focus the mind on God. The repetitive, powerful chorus makes it accessible and memorable, allowing entire congregations to sing in unison, creating a powerful sense of communal faith.
A Tool for Evangelism
The clear, accessible meaning of the lyrics, particularly the message of salvation in verse 3, makes it an effective tool for evangelism. It can convey the core of the gospel in a way that resonates emotionally and spiritually.
Personal Devotion
Many individuals find solace and inspiration in singing or reflecting on “How Great Thou Art” during personal prayer or quiet time. It serves as a personal declaration of faith and a reminder of God’s constant presence.
Frequently Asked Questions About “How Great Thou Art”
- Who wrote the lyrics to “How Great Thou Art”? The original Swedish poem, “O Store Gud,” was written by Carl Boberg. The English translation and additional verses, which form the most widely known version, are largely attributed to Stuart K. Hine.
- What is the primary theme of the hymn? The primary theme is the overwhelming greatness of God as revealed through His creation, His redemptive work through Jesus Christ, and His promises for the future.
- Does the hymn reference specific scriptures? While not directly quoting, the lyrics allude to numerous biblical concepts and passages, such as God’s power in nature (Psalms), His love in sending His Son (John 3:16), and the promise of the Second Coming (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
- How has the hymn impacted Christian music? “How Great Thou Art” is considered one of the most beloved and influential hymns in modern Christian music. Its powerful message and stirring melody have made it a staple in countless churches and a source of inspiration for many singers and musicians.
- What is the theological significance of the refrain “Then sings my soul”? The refrain signifies a deeply personal and emotional response to God’s majesty. It’s not just an intellectual assent but a heartfelt expression of faith and adoration originating from the deepest part of a person’s being. This expression is central to worship.
This hymn, with its profound lyrics and deep theology, continues to inspire and uplift millions. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith, the beauty of God’s creation, and the life-changing message of the gospel. Whether sung in a grand cathedral or whispered in a private prayer, “How Great Thou Art” remains a timeless declaration of divine greatness.