The Enduring Power of How Great Thou Art
Some hymns settle into our souls like a long-held prayer. How Great Thou Art is one of those, soaring in melody, rich in reverence, and rooted in a moment of awe. With its timeless message and stirring refrain, it has become one of the most beloved hymns of worship across the world.
Whether sung in quiet devotion or booming through cathedral rafters, this hymn stirs the soul and draws our hearts to the greatness of God.
The Story Behind How Great Thou Art
The original poem that became this famous hymn was written in 1885 by Swedish pastor and editor Carl Gustav Boberg. As the story goes, Boberg was walking home from church in Kronobäck, Sweden, when a sudden thunderstorm swept across the landscape. Moments later, the storm passed and calm returned. The sun broke through, the birds began to sing again, and the church bells rang gently through the evening.
It was in this moment of transition, from power to peace, that Boberg was inspired to write the poem O Store Gud (“O Great God”).
He later shared:
“It was that time of year when everything seemed to be in its richest coloring; the birds were singing in trees and everywhere. It was very warm; a thunderstorm appeared… But the storm was soon over and the clear sky appeared. When I came home I opened my window toward the sea… That evening, I wrote the song.”
A Thunderstorm, a Rainbow, and a Thrush’s Song
One account from J. Irving Erickson paints the moment even more vividly:
“A thundercloud appeared… lightning flashed… strong winds swept over the fields… then came rain in cool, fresh showers. In a little while the storm was over, and a rainbow appeared.”
From his home, Boberg could see Mönsterås Bay spread before him like a mirror. Across the stillness, he heard the song of a thrush, and the tolling of church bells. The words flowed from his heart that evening in response to it all.
From Sweden to the World
Boberg’s poem was first translated into German, then Russian, and finally into English by English missionary Stuart K. Hine, who added two original verses of his own. The version we sing today reflects Hine’s adaptation, set to a traditional Russian melody.
The hymn gained widespread popularity when it was sung by George Beverly Shea and Cliff Barrows during the Billy Graham crusades, reaching millions. In 2001, Today’s Christian magazine ranked it second only to Amazing Grace as the most beloved hymn of all time.
It was also voted the UK’s favorite hymn by BBC’s Songs of Praise.
Full Lyrics to How Great Thou Art
How Great Thou Art
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I love this song! =)
Such a beautiful hymn! I love it when we sing this one.
I love those lyrics. They remind me of George Beverly Shea and the Billy Graham crusades.
My soul always swells with gratitude and praise whenever I sing this song!
This is my favorite song! I have been humming it all day and then it appears in my email! Thanks for the reminder that God is all powerful and does what's best for us!