The beloved hymn "How Great Thou Art" has been a staple of Christian worship for decades, inspiring countless people around the world with its powerful lyrics and soaring melody. In this article, we'll delve into the history of the song, explore its meaning and significance, and provide you with printable lyrics and chords to enhance your worship experience.
The History of "How Great Thou Art"
"How Great Thou Art" was written by Carl Boberg, a Swedish pastor and hymn writer, in 1885. The original title was "O Great God," and it was composed as a poem with nine verses. Boberg's inspiration came from a combination of his own experiences, biblical passages, and traditional Swedish hymns. The song gained popularity in Sweden and eventually spread to other parts of the world.
In 1890, the song was translated into Russian by Ivan Prokhanoff, and it became a beloved hymn among Russian Christians. The song's popularity continued to grow, and it was eventually translated into numerous languages, including English.
The English Translation
The English translation of "How Great Thou Art" was written by Stuart Hine, a British missionary, in the 1940s. Hine's translation is the most widely used version today, and it is known for its poetic and expressive language. The song has undergone several minor changes over the years, but its core message and melody have remained the same.
The Meaning and Significance of "How Great Thou Art"
"How Great Thou Art" is a hymn that celebrates the majesty and power of God. The lyrics are a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of creation and the wonders of God's love. The song is often sung during worship services, and its message is both a declaration of faith and an expression of gratitude.
The song's significance extends beyond its musical beauty; it has also played a significant role in shaping Christian worship and theology. "How Great Thou Art" has been sung in countless churches, missions, and revivals, inspiring people to worship and serve God.
Theology and Themes
"How Great Thou Art" explores several key themes and theological concepts, including:
- The majesty and power of God
- The beauty and wonder of creation
- The importance of worship and praise
- The concept of God's love and redemption
The song's lyrics are deeply rooted in biblical teachings, drawing inspiration from passages such as Psalm 8, Romans 1, and Revelation 4.
Printable Lyrics and Chords
Here are the printable lyrics and chords to "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
Chorus 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
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
Chorus 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
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
Chorus 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
Chords
Verse: G - G7 - C - C7 G - G7 - Am - D7
Chorus: G - D - Em - C G - D - Em - C
Additional Resources
For more information on "How Great Thou Art," including sheet music, guitar tabs, and worship resources, visit the following websites:
- Worship Together: How Great Thou Art
- SongSelect: How Great Thou Art
- Hymnary.org: How Great Thou Art
Conclusion
"How Great Thou Art" is a timeless hymn that continues to inspire and uplift people around the world. Its powerful lyrics and soaring melody have made it a beloved classic, and its message of God's majesty and love remains a testament to the enduring power of faith.
We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the song's history, meaning, and significance, as well as the printable lyrics and chords to enhance your worship experience.
Share Your Thoughts
We'd love to hear from you! Share your favorite memories or experiences related to "How Great Thou Art" in the comments below. How has this song impacted your life or worship experience?
What is the original title of "How Great Thou Art"?
+The original title of "How Great Thou Art" is "O Great God," written by Carl Boberg in 1885.
Who translated "How Great Thou Art" into English?
+The English translation of "How Great Thou Art" was written by Stuart Hine in the 1940s.
What are the main themes and theological concepts explored in "How Great Thou Art"?
+The main themes and theological concepts explored in "How Great Thou Art" include the majesty and power of God, the beauty and wonder of creation, the importance of worship and praise, and the concept of God's love and redemption.