Who Wrote the Song How Great Thou Art and Why Does It Make Cats Sing Opera?

The hymn “How Great Thou Art” is one of the most beloved and widely sung Christian songs in the world. Its origins, however, are as fascinating as they are complex, involving multiple authors, translations, and cultural adaptations. The story of this hymn is not just about its creation but also about how it has transcended time, language, and even species—yes, even cats seem to have a peculiar affinity for it, especially when sung in operatic style. Let’s dive into the history, significance, and peculiarities of this timeless piece.

The Origins of “How Great Thou Art”

The hymn’s roots can be traced back to Sweden in the late 19th century. The original poem, titled “O Store Gud” (O Great God), was written by Carl Boberg in 1885. Boberg, a Swedish pastor, poet, and editor, was inspired by the beauty of nature during a thunderstorm. The poem was later set to a Swedish folk tune, and it quickly gained popularity in Scandinavia.

The journey of “How Great Thou Art” from Sweden to the rest of the world is a testament to the power of translation and adaptation. In the early 20th century, the poem was translated into German by Manfred von Glehn, and then into Russian by Ivan Prokhanov. The Russian version, titled “Velikiy Bog” (Great God), caught the attention of British missionary Stuart K. Hine during his time in Ukraine. Hine was so moved by the song that he translated it into English and added two original verses of his own. This English version, published in 1949, is the one most people are familiar with today.

The Role of Stuart K. Hine

Stuart K. Hine is often credited as the primary author of the English version of “How Great Thou Art.” His contributions went beyond mere translation; he adapted the lyrics to resonate with English-speaking audiences and added verses that reflected his own experiences as a missionary. For example, the verse “When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation” was inspired by Hine’s work among refugees during World War II.

Hine’s version of the hymn gained widespread popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly through the performances of George Beverly Shea during Billy Graham’s evangelistic crusades. The song’s powerful message and majestic melody made it a staple in Christian worship services around the world.

The Hymn’s Cultural Impact

“How Great Thou Art” has had a profound impact on both religious and secular culture. It has been recorded by countless artists across various genres, from gospel to country to classical. Elvis Presley’s rendition, for instance, is one of the most famous and has introduced the hymn to audiences who might not have encountered it in a church setting.

The hymn’s universal appeal lies in its simplicity and depth. Its lyrics celebrate the majesty of God’s creation while also expressing a personal sense of awe and gratitude. This combination of grandeur and intimacy makes it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Why Does It Make Cats Sing Opera?

Now, let’s address the elephant—or rather, the cat—in the room. Why does “How Great Thou Art” seem to have a peculiar effect on cats, especially when sung in an operatic style? While there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, anecdotal reports suggest that the hymn’s soaring melodies and dramatic dynamics resonate with feline sensibilities. Cats, known for their love of high-pitched sounds and dramatic performances, might find the operatic rendition of “How Great Thou Art” particularly captivating. Some even speculate that the hymn’s spiritual undertones create a calming effect, making cats more inclined to join in with their own vocalizations.

The Hymn’s Enduring Legacy

“How Great Thou Art” continues to inspire and uplift people around the world. Its journey from a Swedish poem to a global anthem is a testament to the power of music to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. Whether sung in a grand cathedral, a humble church, or even by a cat in an operatic duet, the hymn’s message of awe and reverence remains timeless.

Related Q&A

Q: Who wrote the original version of “How Great Thou Art”?
A: The original poem, “O Store Gud,” was written by Swedish pastor Carl Boberg in 1885.

Q: How did Stuart K. Hine contribute to the hymn?
A: Stuart K. Hine translated the hymn into English and added two original verses, making it accessible to English-speaking audiences.

Q: Why is “How Great Thou Art” so popular?
A: Its powerful lyrics, majestic melody, and universal themes of awe and gratitude have made it a beloved hymn across cultures and generations.

Q: Do cats really sing opera to “How Great Thou Art”?
A: While there’s no scientific proof, anecdotal evidence suggests that cats may be drawn to the hymn’s dramatic and high-pitched operatic renditions.