For the Beauty of the Earth: Lyrics and Their Meaning
John Rutter's "For the Beauty of the Earth" is a beloved choral piece, often used in religious and secular settings alike. Its simple yet powerful lyrics resonate with a deep appreciation for the natural world and the divine hand that created it. Let's delve into the lyrics and explore their meaning.
The Lyrics:
For the beauty of the earth, For the glory of the skies, For the love which from our birth Over and around us lies; Lord of all, to Thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise.
For the wonder of each hour, For the wisdom of each day, For the flowers in their power, For the fields of waving hay; Lord of all, to Thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise.
For the sunshine and the rain, For the fruit upon the tree, For the summer's golden grain, For the autumn's bounty free; Lord of all, to Thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise.
Understanding the Meaning:
Each verse focuses on a different aspect of creation, culminating in a heartfelt expression of gratitude to a higher power. The song's simplicity belies a profound message:
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Verse 1: The Vastness of Creation: This verse sets the stage, acknowledging the breathtaking beauty of the earth and the heavens. The "love which from our birth / Over and around us lies" speaks to a sense of divine presence and care woven into the fabric of existence.
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Verse 2: The Wonders of Daily Life: This stanza shifts the focus from the grand scale to the everyday miracles. The "wonder of each hour," the "wisdom of each day," the vibrant flowers, and the bountiful fields all point to the intricate design and consistent provision of nature.
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Verse 3: The Cycle of Nature and Provision: The final verse emphasizes the cyclical nature of life, highlighting the sun and rain, the fruits of labor, and the abundance of harvests. The mention of "summer's golden grain" and "autumn's bounty free" underscores the cyclical nature of growth and renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions (often implicit in searches):
What is the hymn "For the Beauty of the Earth" about?
The hymn is a celebration of the beauty and wonder of the natural world, expressing profound gratitude for God's creation and provision. It speaks to the awe-inspiring vastness of the universe as well as the simple beauty found in everyday life, like flowers and fields of grain.
Who wrote "For the Beauty of the Earth"?
While the melody is often attributed to various composers, John Rutter's arrangement is the most widely known and performed version. The lyrics are traditionally associated with Folliott Sandford Pierpoint, although the exact origins are sometimes debated.
Is "For the Beauty of the Earth" suitable for non-religious settings?
Absolutely. While the lyrics express gratitude to a "Lord of all," the song's themes of appreciating nature's beauty and expressing gratitude are universal and easily adaptable to secular contexts. Its melodic beauty and powerful message resonate deeply regardless of religious affiliation.
Where can I find sheet music for "For the Beauty of the Earth"?
Sheet music is widely available through various online retailers and music publishers. Many choral libraries and websites also offer arrangements for different voice combinations. (Note: I cannot provide direct links to download pages due to copyright restrictions).
What is the best way to sing "For the Beauty of the Earth"?
The song lends itself well to a variety of vocal arrangements, from small chamber choirs to large choral ensembles. The emphasis should be on conveying the sense of awe and gratitude through clear diction, controlled dynamics, and a unified vocal blend.
By understanding the lyrics and their underlying message, singers and listeners alike can fully appreciate the beauty and power of John Rutter's arrangement of "For the Beauty of the Earth." Its enduring popularity testifies to its ability to connect us with the wonder of creation and inspire a sense of profound gratitude.
