How Great Thou Art: The Story Behind the Hymn
The hymn “How Great Thou Art” is one of the most beloved songs in Christian music, with its powerful lyrics and uplifting melody. The story behind this iconic hymn is equally inspiring, as it showcases the profound impact of faith and the beauty of resilience in the face of adversity.
The hymn was written by Swedish evangelist Carl Gustav Boberg in 1885. Boberg, who was a member of the Swedish Lutheran Church, was deeply moved by the experiences he had during the 1878-1880 Russian famine. As a missionary, he witnessed the suffering and loss of life firsthand, which left a lasting impression on him.
One of the most significant events that inspired Boberg to write “How Great Thou Art” was the miraculous rescue of a group of Swedes from a shipwreck. During a stormy night, a ship carrying Swedish immigrants to America was caught in a fierce storm. The passengers, including Boberg, were stranded at sea for days, with little hope of survival. As they drifted further away from the shore, Boberg and his fellow passengers began to lose hope.
However, on the fourth day, a ship appeared in the distance, and the passengers were finally rescued. This miraculous event led Boberg to reflect on the greatness of God and His power to bring them through such a dangerous situation. It was this experience that inspired him to write the hymn, which begins with the lyrics, “O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds Thy hands have made.”
The hymn quickly gained popularity in Sweden, and it was translated into English by a Swedish-American named Gustaf af Klintberg in 1887. The English version, which is the one most commonly sung today, has since become a staple in Christian hymnals and worship services worldwide.
“How Great Thou Art” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Martina McBride. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal message of praise and gratitude to God for His greatness and the miracles He performs in our lives.
In conclusion, the story behind “How Great Thou Art” is a testament to the power of faith and the beauty of resilience. Carl Gustav Boberg’s personal experiences during the Russian famine and the miraculous rescue of the Swedish immigrants serve as a powerful reminder of God’s presence and His ability to bring us through the darkest of times. This inspiring hymn continues to touch the hearts of believers and non-believers alike, reminding us all of the greatness of our Creator.
