“How Great Thou Art” is a famous Christian song loved by many different denominations. It powerfully expresses admiration and respect for God’s creation and salvation. Here is some more information about its background and importance:
Origins of the Hymn:
Swedish Background: The song comes from a Swedish poem called “O Store Gud” (O Great God), which was written by Carl Boberg in 1885. Boberg felt moved by the beauty of nature while taking a walk in the fields after a storm. The poem was later put to a Swedish folk tune.
The song was translated into German and Russian before it was available to English speakers. The most popular English version sung today was translated by Stuart K. Hine, a British missionary, in the early 1900s. Hine wrote new lines based on his missionary work in Eastern Europe, mentioning Christ’s suffering and looking forward to His return.
Structure and Themes: The song focuses on four main themes:
1. God’s Creation: The first line talks about the beauty of nature and praises God for creating the world.
2. God’s Sovereignty: The second line highlights that God has power and control over everything in the world.
3. God’s Salvation: The third line talks about how Jesus Christ sacrificed Himself and how His death on the cross provides a way for people to be saved.
4. Eternal Praise: The last line talks about the time when Christians will be with God, singing His praises forever.
How-Great-Thou-Art-Hymn-Lyrics/
Popularity:
The song became immensely popular in the mid-1900s, especially during the Billy Graham events, where it was often sung by the famous gospel singer George Beverly Shea.
Cross-Denominational Appeal: Its common themes of creation, redemption, and praise have made it popular in both traditional and modern Christian service.
The hymn’s powerful message and beautiful tune still inspire Christians around the world to worship and be devoted.
